In the time waveform representation, what does the vertical axis (Y-axis) signify?

In a time waveform representation, the vertical axis (Y-axis) signifies amplitude. This axis represents the magnitude of the signal or vibration at each point in time, allowing for an analysis of how strong or intense the vibration is during the observed timeframe. The amplitude provides critical information about the level of vibration energy or displacement at any given moment, which is essential for diagnosing issues in machinery or understanding the dynamics of the system being analyzed.

The horizontal axis, which is not the focus of the question, indicates time, showing how the vibration changes over the duration of the measurement. Frequency and phase, although important in the context of vibration analysis, are typically represented in different types of data representations, such as frequency spectrum plots or phase plots. Therefore, in the context of a time waveform, the correct interpretation of the vertical axis as amplitude is key to understanding the behavior of the system being analyzed.