ADC – converts an analog signal into digital form through sampling and quantization.

Analog-to-digital conversion (ADC) is the process of converting a continuous analog signal into a digital form that can be processed by computers or other digital devices. This process involves sampling and quantization.

1. Sampling: This is the process of taking measurements of an analog signal at specific time intervals. This means that the analog signal is measured only at certain moments in time. The higher the sampling rate, the more frequently the measurements occur, and the more accurately the analog signal is represented in digital form.

2. Quantization: This is the process of converting the analog values obtained during sampling into discrete digital values. As a result of quantization, the analog signal is divided into a finite number of levels determined by the resolution of the ADC. The more bits used to represent each sample, the greater the number of levels and, consequently, the higher the resolution of the ADC.

Ultimately, this yields a sequence of digital values that represents the original analog signal. These digital values can be stored, processed, or transmitted for further use. ADC is employed in various fields, including sound recording, measurement, medical instruments, and more.