Singular Network Elements

The properties of
n
-ports can be examined in terms of simple properties of linear vector spaces. This approach leads to a very general type of network formalism which in turn casts light on the physical realizability (or nonrealizability) of the singular linear network elements: the nullator (simultaneously an open and a short circuit), and the norator (the unique nonreciprocal one-port with arbitrary port voltage and current). Furthermore, a two-port (the "nullor") which combines these two elements can be shown to be a unique active building block which exhibits the extraordinary nature of the two singular one-ports, but which has other properties which make it amenable for use in practical systems.