This paper presents a comparison between two algorithms for sinusoidal signal characterization applied to QCM impedance measurements. These algorithms are the zero crossing and peak detection method and the 7 parameters sine-fitting method. Simulation and experimental results from both methods are shown in order to determine which method provides the best performance in terms of accuracy. Obtaining a precise value of the QCM impedance depends directly on the precise measurement of the amplitude and phase of two sinusoidal voltages. It was found that the sine-fitting method achieves better results without an excessive associated computational burden. These results will be applied to the development of a new technique for biofilm characterization based on multiple QCM impedance measurements.

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