Sigma-Delta
Sigma-Delta is a type of analog-to-digital converter (ADC) that uses a technique called oversampling to convert continuous signals into digital data. It works by comparing the input signal to a reference and generating a series of bits that represent the signal's value. This method allows for high-resolution conversions and is particularly useful in applications like audio processing and sensor data acquisition.
The Sigma-Delta architecture typically includes a modulator and a digital filter. The modulator oversamples the input signal, producing a high-frequency bitstream, while the digital filter processes this bitstream to produce a more accurate digital representation of the original signal. This combination results in improved noise performance and precision.