Transfer function to state-space

Convert a transfer function to a state-space realisation online. This tool produces the A, B, C, and D matrices in controllable canonical form from H(s) = N(s) / D(s), for x′ = Ax + Bu, y = Cx + Du.

Controllable canonical form

The denominator coefficients form the bottom row of the companion A matrix, B is a unit vector, and C carries the numerator. A non-zero D appears only when the numerator and denominator have the same degree (direct feedthrough).

Frequently asked questions

What is a state-space model?
A state-space model represents a system with first-order matrix equations x′ = Ax + Bu and y = Cx + Du, where A, B, C, and D are matrices. It is equivalent to a transfer function but extends naturally to multi-input, multi-output and modern control design.
How do you convert a transfer function to state-space?
This tool uses the controllable canonical form: the denominator coefficients build the companion A matrix, B is a unit input vector, C carries the numerator coefficients, and D is the direct feedthrough — non-zero only when the numerator and denominator have equal degree.
What is controllable canonical form?
Controllable canonical form is a standard state-space realisation built directly from the transfer-function coefficients, in which the system is guaranteed to be controllable. It is convenient for pole placement and controller design.
Is this converter free?
Yes, it runs entirely in your browser at no cost.

See also: Routh-Hurwitz · Pole-zero map · Bode plot