Analog-to-Digital Converter: Essential Components Explained

What are the essential components of an Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC)?

Which of the following includes a sampler, quantizer, and a coder?
a) DAC
b) ADC
c) DAS
d) detector array

Answer:

The correct answer is b) ADC.

ADC, which stands for Analog-to-Digital Converter, includes a sampler, quantizer, and coder. These components are vital for converting an analog signal into a digital one that computers can process.

Explanation:

The sampler in an ADC collects the signal at discrete intervals, allowing for the signal to be digitized. The quantizer then converts these samples into a finite number of levels. Finally, the coder turns these quantized values into a binary code that computers can understand.

Therefore, an ADC is essential for tasks such as digitizing audio signals, measuring physical quantities, and converting analog sensor data into digital form for processing by a computer or microcontroller.