2 December 2017

Difference between analog and digital signal processing

Analog signal processing is basically any signal processing that is done on the analog signals by analog means. Digital signal processing is basically any signal processing that is done on digital signals or information signals that aim to modify or improve the signal. 

Analog is mathematically represented as a set of continuous values such as voltage, electric current or electric charge around components in electronic devices. Some example of this type of signal is crossover filters in loudspeakers, bass, treble and volume on stereos, tint on televisions, capacitors, resistors, inductors, and transistors. 

Digital signal is characterized by a representation of discrete units, such as discrete-time, discrete frequency, or discrete domain signals. It also includes subfields like communication signal processing, radar signal processing, sensor array processing, digital image processing, etc. 

Difference between analog signal processing and digital signal 


Some key differences between analog signal processing and digital signal processing are listed below. 

Analog Signal Processing :

  • Less versatile
  • Less accuracy
  • Less repeatability
  • Upgradation difficult
  • Difficult to store the analog signal
  • Less system complexity
  • Universal compatibility is not possible
  • Difficult to implement mathematical processing algorithms
  • Require Less power consumption

Digital Signal Processing :

  • More versatile
  • More accuracy
  • More repeatability
  • Upgradation compatibility is possible
  • Such a signal can be easily stored 
  • More system complexity
  • Universal compatibility is possible
  • Mathematical processing algorithm can be easily implemented
  • Require more power consumption

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