This describes any system that is based on discrete units, e.g. computers. Computers are digital because they operate on a series of discrete units called bits. See bit and byte.
Representation of analogue signal Refers to the storage or transmission of data to represent and closely match an analogue signal but represented in effect as 1's and 0's ndpoint Termination point The end of the circuit where the VoIP telephone call is delivered eg your ATA adaptor and telephone lobal Roaming Internationally Portable Telephone Similar to GSM mobile telephones the latest VoIP services are globally portable and able to handle incoming and outgoing calls from any location on the public Internet.323 A standard protocol for VoIP This is the originally accepted standard for the packetising of voice and images and is hardware centric in the way it operates. P Telephony Internet Protocol Telephony Another way of describing VoIP telephony but is commonly used to refer to computer based VoIP bps Kilobits per second 1000 bits of data being transmitted per second GCP Media Gateway Control Protocol A very robust VoIP protocol that ff-Net Off-Net telephone calls VoIP Telephone calls that terminate onto a traditional PSTN telephone service
Information stored in a way that a computer can understand, using a binary form made up of 1s and 0s. Last Reviewed: 2002-07-05
Equipment that uses quantities represented as binary numbers. In a digital synthesizer every aspect of the sound generation is handled as a numeric calculation. The digital information is not audible and so must be converted to analog form by a DAC before it is output.
A signal that has only two levels per cycle [i.e., on or off (or 1 or 0)], as opposed to an analog signal, which can have an infinite number of levels per cycle. In telecommunications, digital signals offer superior sound quality over analog because there are only two levels to reproduce and any noise or interference introduced when the signal is transmitted is stripped out when the signal is regenerated.
In contrast to analog, digital representations consist of values measured at discrete intervals. Digital clocks go from one value to the next without displaying all intermediate values. Computers are digital machines employing a binary system, i.e., at their most basic level they can distinguish between just two values, 0 and 1 (off and on); there is no simple way to represent all the values in between, such as 0.25. All data that a computer processes must be digital, encoded as a series of zeroes and ones. Digital representations are approximations of analog events. They are useful because they are relatively easy to store and manipulate electronically.
The general term for communications technologies that transmit data as binary code.
From Latin 'digitus', finger. Way of processing data from the binary system.
encoded in binary integers (bits), discretized or sampled, typically on or for a computer; contrast with analog
Digital is the state-of-the-art technology widely used today. Digital copiers scan and digitize originals before reproducing them, essentially converting images to computerized data. And heres an interesting fact: All multifunction copiers are digital, but not all digital copiers are multifunctional.
This implies a value represented by a group of discrete steps. Some claim that digital representations of images and sound are more accurate; others that...
Pertaining to measurements or devices in which the output varies in discrete steps, i.e. on-off or pulse signals. Compare to analog.
Referring to communications techniques whereby information and data are encoded as discrete elements in a binary language, as opposed to analog representation of information in variable, but continuous, wave forms.
Method of representing information using "1" and "0" numbers.
A method of transmitting voice signals or data. Digital signals are represented in binary format.
Describes any system based on discontinuous data or events. Computers are digital machines because at their most basic level they can distinguish between just two values, 0 and 1 (off and on). There is no simple way to represent all the values in between, such as 0.75. Data must be encoded digitally to be understood by a computer. The opposite of digital is analog.
Digital signal refers to signal that discretely varies with time and has finite number of levels accordingly. It is represented by a pulse train. It is generated from the conversion of analog signal by an analog-to-digital converter. Digital in general refers to technology that transmits/receives and processes digital signal. In digital system, information is encoded into a binary stream of digits 1 and 0. See picture. Compare with analog.
A piece of information recognizable and therefore manipulatable and storable on a computer.
Data carried as ones and zeroes. Technically, signals restricted to one of two voltage levels which correspond to 1 or 0.
audio and video recorded in quantities represented by digits, usually in the binary system.
Phone lines are divided into analog and digital lines. DSL, ADSL, ISDN, T1 and other digital services connect to the PSN with a digital signal. If your voice is traveling via one of these methods then it is digitized for transmission and returned to analog for the recipient at the other end.
Information in a discrete or quantized form. Opposite of analog.
Representing data as discrete bits.
or numeric: In the mathematical sense digital means handling data or information in a "binary" code of "0" and "1". While newspapers, paper letters, LPs or conventional video tapes are analogical media, information on websites, in e-mail, or on CDs and DVDs are in digital format. You can digitalize analogical content for example by scanning pictures or by recording music on your computer. digital audio player (DAP) or MP3 player is a device that stores, organizes and plays digital music files such as MP3s.
Data represented in discrete, discontinuous form, as contrasted with analog data represented in continuous form.
the measurement of a signal in terms of a series of zeroes and ones, not in terms of continuously varying numbers. Digital hearing aids use computers to convert continuous analog signals into discrete data points for processing within the hearing aid, and then reconvert them to analog acoustic signals for use in the listener's ear, allowing sound modifications not possible with non-digital technology.
a system presentation by binary numbers (a pattern of 0s and 1s) for input, processing, transmission, storage, or display, rather than a continuous spectrum of values (an analog system) or non-numeric symbols such as letters or icons. In such a system data-carrying signals are restricted to one of the two electronic or optical pulses, either logic 1 (where the pulse is present) or 0 (where the pulse is absent).
Representation of data by discrete characters.
using numbers to represent quantities or symbols; an electronic digital signal consists of countable pulses of fixed size downloading: electronic transfer of information from one computer to one's own. sending information to one's site is called uploading
Launched in the United States in 1996, many believe that the digital system has revolutionized hearing. Digital translates sound to digital code, changes it and re-transmits it back by using mathematical calculations. This relatively new technology has revolutionized hearing devices by duplicating sound transmission. Digital technology is praised for producing a quality sound that has increased accuracy.
Expressed or represented by a series of numbers. For example, a digital signal is expressed by the numerical value of the signal size at regular points in time. Sounds and pictures can be recorded, stored, and played back digitally with no distinguishable difference from the original if the time interval between samples is sufficiently small.
A description of data that is stored or transmitted as a sequence of ones and zeros. Most commonly, this means binary data represented using electronic or electromagnetic signals. QuickTime movie files are digital.
Digital transmission technology has a very wide range of applications in broadcast media, video, telephony, computing, etc. In TV, it facilitates more efficient use of transmission frequencies (more channels for a given bandwidth), unlike its predecessor, PAL, which was analogue. Digital signals can be encrypted and compressed. The technology offers enhanced picture quality and improved sound quality for both TV and radio services. Links: DTG Waveguide
This is technology that stores information in one of two states, on or off. Each of these is a digit referred to as a bit modem is used to convert digital information in your computer to analog signals to be transmitted over voice grade telephone lines, and to convert analog phone signals to digital information for your computer.
term for radio transmission where the voice signal is measured at regular intervals, and where these measured values are transmitted by the radio signal as numerical values (0 and 1).
a method of encoding information using a binary system made up of zeroes and ones. In communications technology this takes the form of two very different electrical voltages, several volts positive and negative, to represent the two values. In technology of cameras, it is a way of encoding information.
A representation of magnitude in whole numbers or digits. Computers are digital machines. In music, recording audio digitally means that the recording is represented on a digital device by the whole values of bits (digital audio).
Any system that uses a binary numeration system to perform an operation.
A system of data or image values in the form of discrete, non-continuous codes, such as binary. When data is in a digital format, it can be processed, stored (recorded) and reproduced easily while maintaining its original integrity.
In displays it is used for the direct readout of digits. In recording or computing it is the use of binary code to represent information.
A system where standart analog information is represented by 0's and 1's that are a mathematical model of the original signal. Examples of sound that's been digitally stored is a compact disc or a DAT recording.
Digital representations consist of values measured at discrete intervals. Digital watches are called digital because they go from one value to the next without displaying all intermediate values.
Calculation or representation by discrete units. For example, digital audio and digital video can be represented by a series of binary ones and zeros.
A number representation for something in the real world, such as temperature or time, so that counting can be performed precisely.
refers to use of binary code in storage and transmission of data. In recording audio and video data, the images are discrete, non-continuous codes. Provides signal reproduction with little noise or distortion.
A method of processing information through the use of electronic or optical pulses that represent the binary digits 0 and 1. Wireless digital technology enables clear sound, encrypted transmissions, and value-added text and data services. It is also more resistant to cloning fraud
Referring to communications procedures, techniques, & equipment by which information is encoded as either a binary one (1) or zero (0); the representation of the information in discrete binary form, discontinuous in time; compare with analog.
Using a limited, predetermined numbering system to measure or represent the flow of data. Modern computers are digital because they use the fixed binary digits 0 and 1 to represent all data.
Referring to communications procedures, techniques, and equipment whereby information is encoded as either binary "1" or "0"; the representation of information in discrete binary form, discontinuous in time, as opposed to the analog representation of information in variable, but continuous, waveforms.
A way to store and transmit data by reducing it to electronic signalsÑdigitsÑand then reassembling them for an exact reproduction.
As opposed to ANALOG. Digital electronics provides a way in which all information can be given a numerical value. This is done by using the fact that any connection can either be 'On" or "Off". By convention, "On" is considered to be the number 'One' and 'Off' is accepted as the number 'Zero'. This means that any combination of on and off can be viewed as a binary number e.g: 10110. Using binary mathematics therefore, exact values can be provided for all electrical phenomena. This precision makes digital technology very convenient and means that all systems using the concept can communicate since there is no ambiguity.
1. adj. Pertaining to data that consist of digits. 2. adj. Pertaining to data in the form of digits.
A system whereby information is represented by binary digits, or "bits." Binary information has two states, "0" and "1,"or "on" and "off," and can be easily processed by electronic systems.
Digital information is stored using a series of ones and zeros. Computers are ...
A system of recording data and images with discrete, noncontinuous codes; provides signal reproduction with little noise or distortion
Computers carry out all their operations using binary, describing information in a series of switches that are either on or off (1 or 0). As all information is dealt with using these two digits, we talk of the digitalisation of text, images, video etc. when these things are to be stored or processed by computers. 'Digital' is also commonly used adjectivally to describe processes or facilities which involve the collection or manipulation of digitised information such as 'digital libraries' or 'digital video' or even digital culture.
Digital signals travel longer distances, at faster speeds and with clearer voice quality than analog signals. The digital telephone switch was developed in the 70s by Northern Telecom.
A method of storing, processing and transmitting information through the use of distinct electronic or optical pulses. Digital transmission and switching technologies employ a sequence of these pulses to represent information, and differs from analog transmission, which uses a continuously variable signal.
1) In telecommunications contexts, digital refers to the method of storing, retrieving, and transmitting data in a sequence of discrete symbols, usually binary. 2) In common usage, digital may refer to a readout that uses numbers rather than scale positions (i.e., digital display, digital clock, etc.).
There are two main ways of doing things electronically, analog or digital. The digital method is to consider a circuit either on or off, a signal as either present or absent, with no levels in between. Electronic circuits using the digital mode are simple to design and non-critical in operation. The all-or-nothing nature of digital circuits make them immune to drift and distortion, and their simplicity makes them easy to manufacture in large quantity. Digitizing is defined as transforming a signal or piece of information into digital form.
A form capable of being processed by a computer. Technically, data in the form of ones and zeros.
Characterized by being either on or off with no intermediate value. The term is applied to computer data in transit and contrasts with analog.
A digital signal is one that varies in discrete steps. The signal does not vary smoothly but instead jumps from one level to the next with a sharp discontinuity.
System that uses binary numbers, 0 and 1, representing "on" and "off," to record, reproduce and/or store text, sound, images, video or any other kind of data.
Represented by a series of digits. Therefore not continuously variable but represented by steps. If the steps are sufficiently small then the human eye or ear cannot distinguish the digitally encoded information from an analogue equivalent. The advantage of digital representation is that images or sound can be recorded with absolute precision with error correcting codes. Such information is readily compatible with computers and digital processing.
A system or device in which discrete signals are used to represent continuous signals in the form of numbers or other characters. Information is represented by electrical "on / off", "high / low" or "1 / 0" pulses, instead of being represented by a continuously-varying quantity (e.g. signal voltage) as is the case in an Analogue system or device.
A digital signal is made up of a sequence of digital numbers. Digital numbers can only have certain, discrete values (compared with analogue signals which can range over a continuity of values). Analogue signals can be represented by digital ones, incurring quantisation noise (due to the difference between the nearest digital value and the actual analogue value). However, this usually is more than compensated for by more accurate transmission and reproduction, as digital signals suffer far less from noise and distortion effects
Digital information relies solely on Arabic numerals for expression. In computers, all information is processed in binary numerics (the numbers 0 and 1) through on/off electrical impulses. Computer programs are written alphanumeric code (all the characters on the keyboard) and are translated by programs or devices into binary code that can be read by the central processing unit (CPU) of the computer.
A signal which has been processed and encoded as a series of ones and noughts. Digital technology is used in processing the picture signal on some camcorders and on all DV equipment.. A couple of domestic camcorders record sound digitally (those with PCM sound).
A method of representing information using a sequence of ones and zeros for storage and interpretation by a computer. In digital transmission, analog signals that are originally in a continuous form are converted to discrete signals of zeros or ones to be transmitted to a receive site, interpreted, and used to reconstruct the original analog signal.
Transmission and recording system where the signal is a sequence of ones or zeros, or on-or-off states.
Representation of quantities in discrete (quantized) units. A digital system is one in which the information is contained and manipulated as a series of discrete numbers, as opposed to an analog system, in which the information is represented as a continuous trace or curve of the quantity constituting the signal.
Represented by a numerical code. For sound, the conversion of an analogue waveform to a series of numbers representing the instantaneous amplitude for each sample taken, the storage of those numbers, and the eventual conversion back to analog format for replay.
method of recording in which portions of sound waves are converted into numbers and stored for later reproduction
Encoded as a signal in binary ones and zeros.
Digital data is the coded representation of a waveform as binary digits. All computer data is digital - hence anything that can be broken down into digits, including sound and video as well as text and graphics, can be processed by a computer or transmitted via a digital phone line. Digital connections are faster than analogue and offer higher capacity. Examples include ISDN and GSM.
Represents strictly binary code and will have a value of either one or zero. An example of digital recording is a CD.
A form of transmission that transforms analog signals such as speech into a series of electrical or optical pulses that represent the binary digits 0 and 1. The first step of a digital transmission is sampling the analog waveform and converting it into a stream of numerical data. This data is then converted into a form such as electronic pulses for a wired network, optical light waves for transmission over fiber optics or into radio waves for wireless transmissions.
Pertaining to data [signals] in the form of discrete [separate/pulse form] integral values. Contrast with analog.
The processing and storage of signals with sound information represented in a series of 1’s and 0’s, or binary digits.
Representing data as discrete variables in the form of numerical characters, as in a digital clock or a digital computer. See also ANALOG, COMPUTER.
In signal processing this refers to the representation of quantities in discrete units. The information is contained and manipulated as a series of discrete numbers as opposed to an analog representation where the information is represented as a continuous signal. In practice, even analog signals are usually processed digitally in that the analog signal is sampled to create a digital signal that can be processed by inherently digital computers.
A class of devices or circuits in which the output varies in discreet steps. Binary code is used to represent information.
Describes any device that represents values in the form of binary digits.
The first digital telephone system switch for routing calls came in the late 1970s from Northern Telecom, but it did not become widely available until the 1980s. Compared to analog frequencies, digital signals travel longer distances, at faster speeds, and with clearer voice quality and less static. Digital signals also require less complex peripheral equipment. Instead of transmitting in sound waves, digital signals are transmitted in binary bits.
Information or signal that has been digitized and recreated as a representation. Post Production Work that is done on a project after the initial and major production has been completed. This includes final editing, audio sweetening, special effects, titles, etc...
Digital devices transmit in bits, i.e. a series of binary numbers, to other parts of the system.
A transmission method employing a sequence of discrete, distinct pulses that represent the binary digits 0 and 1 to indicate specific information, in contrast to the continuous signal of analog. Digital networks provide improved clarity, capacity, features and privacy compared to analog systems.
(1) Pertaining to the utilization of discreet integral numbers in a given base to represent all the quantities that occur in a problem or a calculation. It is possible to express in digital form all information stores, transferred or processed by a dual-state condition; e.g., on-off, open-closed and true-false. (2) Compare with analog.
Electronic signals or switches based on discrete, binary electrical levels (ones and zeros) found in such products as touch-tone telephones and audio compact disk players. These signals are either ON or OFF, HIGH or LOW, YES or NO. The mathematical description in digital products is simple, since it is either ON or OFF. Therefore, most electronic products found today are digital, rather than analog.
Any technology which converts or transmits information signals by breaking them down into a series of 0's and 1's. Digital transmission has the added advantage of creating a virtual carbon copy of the original, with zero degradation.
Indicates information which is encoded into ones and zeros (binary code) by some computer processing element. Digital in this industry, however, can refer to several different things. Digital signal processing is a feature of all AutomatedSurveillance.com CCD cameras and many multiple camera processors. Digital video refers to digital recording of video using a DVR video recorder or DVR card.
(adj.) Measured or expressed at discrete intervals; sampled. Common digital watches, like the ones you might buy in a department store, express time in discrete intervals -- no more often than once every second or every tenth of a second. Compact discs (CDs) store digital music -- music that is sampled, or recorded at discrete intervals, more than 40 thousand times each second.
A method in which messages are sent between electronic parts using pulses of electricity instead of a constant flow which varies in voltage (analogue). Digital sound is usually more pure than analogue but does not reproduce the actual sound as accurately.
Any information in discrete form using a binary number system.
The latest TV broadcast technology. To send a digital stream of information to your television set, a TV station takes tiny slices of the video image, assigns a numeric value to describe each slice, and mathematically encodes those values into equations. A traditional analog transmission, in contrast, has a more direct relationship to the pictures you watch. You could look at the television signals through an oscilloscope and see how the frequencies and voltage changes affect the sound, light, and color on your screen. In the audio world, this distinction means that if you hold an old vinyl record to the light, you might see small dark bands where the music grows louder and more dynamic. But the pattern of microscopic pits on a digital CD has only the most complex mathematical relationship to the actual music.
A data format that uses two physical levels to transmit information corresponding to 0s and 1s. A discrete or discontinuous signal.
Used in computerese to describe information that can be represented by a collection of bits.
The recording of information as 0 and 1 in binary code. Opposite of analog. In photographic terms it refers to the capture or storing of an image electronically as opposed to silver halide emulsion technology (film). Digital images can be captured in camera with a digital camera or scanned from the film with a film or drum scanner.
technology used by most newer wireless phones and carriers that encodes voice and data for transmission using a binary code. Improved sound quality, increased security and the ability to handle data are the main advantages of digital technology.
A representation of data as a series of discrete values such as 0s and 1s.
The use of binary digits (1's and 0's) to represent continuous values or discrete states.
A signaling system that has only a discrete number of values, e.g. the alphabet. c.f. analogue Close this window
A method of representing information (for instance video, sound and other types of data) as a series of "ones and zeroes".
The soundwave is broken down into a digital format which bears no physical resemblance to the original analog waveform.
The newer format of recording and transmitting a signal. The signal is converted into a numerical code and then recorded into a series of 0's and 1's. See also "analog".
Information represented by a non-linear series of zeroes and ones. The non-linear nature of digital video allows a user to choose an exact point in a DVD movie, for example, instead of forwarding or rewinding through an analog VHS tape.
Circuitry in which data carrying signals are restricted to either of two voltage levels, corresponding to logic 1 or 0. A circuit which has two stable states: high or low, on or off.
this is information in the form of binary data. Computers use a binary system. Binary is represented by '0' (off, or non-positive) and '1' (on, or positive). The digital data which is stored or transmitted is expressed as a series, or string of zeros and ones.
Sound information can be represented as a data stream of values. The original sound wave is sampled (measured) many times a second and resulting values are stored as computer 0's and 1's. To listen to the sound, the values must be converted back into an analog waveform using a digital to analog converter.
A signal consisting of 0's and 1's. CD's and computer screens are digital, Vinyl records and paintings are analog.
A method of storing data (audio, video, text, equipment commands) by means of numerical code. The coded groups of bits are stored and retrieved as a series of ones and zeroes. This binary code is converted into the audio and video images to be displayed.
A device or signal that represents data as discrete, non-continuous information, as compared with Analog. The digital approach aims to eliminate the noise and distortion associated with Analog transmissions and reproductions.
A form of data in which variables can take on a finite set of discrete values only.
It is possible to translate the radio waves that carry cellular communications into computer code, which is transmitted through the airwaves and retranslated on the receiving end. This is called Digital transmission.
A communications format used with both electronic and light-based systems that transmits audio, video, and data as bits ("0's and 1's") of information. Codecs are used to convert traditional analog signals to digital format and back again. Digital technology also allows communication signals to be compressed for more efficient transmission. (See also: Analog, Component, Composite, D1-D5) Dish: (communications usage) A satellite antenna. (See also: Downlink, TVRO)
A computer process that uses square wave or on/off electrical signals and converts them to a series of ones and zeros for binary calculations.
A signal that has only two levels per cycle, rather than infinite levels found in an analog signal. Easy to regenerate, and as the regenerating device only looks at two levels of signal, unwanted noise is eliminated.
Electronic system which functions by converting the analog signal into a series of discrete binary bits (ones and zeros).
Pertaining to the use of combinations of bits to represent all quantities that occur in a problem or computation. Compare with analog.
(1) A method of representing sound waves as a series of binary numbers. (2) A tuning method for radios in which the desired freq. is set by digital alculation. (3) A numeric display of information.
A data signal composed of ones and zeros, such as can be represented by on/off switches.
Cellular communication is based on sending and receiving radio waves. It is possible to translate the radio waves that carry cellular communications into digital code, which is transmitted over the air and retranslated on the receiving end. This transmission is called digital.
In digital systems the signals of interest are represented as sequences of numbers, which are processed using mathematical techniques. Digital networks are rapidly replacing analog ones as they offer improved sound quality, and secure transmission and can handle data as well as voice.
Usually refers to data that is in computer-readable format.
(1) Any kind of analog information (speech, pictures, text, etc.) that can be scanned and transformed into binary digits. (2) A way of storing, converting, and transmitting data in binary numbers (1s and 0s.) Analog data must be digitized (turned into digital data) before computers can do anything with it. Basically it refers to information in a discrete, rather than continuous (analog) form. Digital signals are virtually immune to noise, distortion, crosstalk, and other quality problems. In addition, digitally based equipment often offers advantages in cost, features, performance and reliability when compared to analog equipment. This process virtually eliminates generation loss as every digital-to-digital copy is theoretically an exact duplicate of the original allowing multi-generational dubs to be made without degradation.
Transmission and switching technologies employ a sequence of binary digits to convey information.
Electronic technology which is represented as a series of on/off impulses or electronic states (as opposed to wavelike transmissions such as radio and television). Each impulse either corresponds to the number 1 or the number 0. Digital transmissions consist of data transmissions entirely represented by a series of 1's and 0's strung together in various ways. A "1" or "0" is referred to as a "bit". Information is stored as "bits" rather than as a continuous wave as in an analogue system. Digital devices use microprocessor or computers to store and retrieve information in the for of "1's" or "0's" or discrete steps, as opposed to continuing fluctuations or waves. Any form of data, including sound amplitude or light intensity as well as information, can be stored and retrieved in digital format.
Information recorded electronically as a series of discrete pulses, or samples, usually using a binary system.
For purposes of this Report, information and statistics stored as databases in computers or on disks, CD-ROM platters or other devices accessed via computers. Printed matter can be converted to a digital database, a process known as digitization.
A digital signal is a sequence of voltages being varied at a specific frequency. A digital signal offers many advantages over an analog signal including: signal can be sent through multiple repeaters endlessly with no loss in signal quality, static or noise is automatically detected and fixed, the signal can be compressed to consume less bandwidth, the signal can easily be encrypted so it cannot be understood, multiple converstations can easily share the same communications line, and idle time on the connection does not consume bandwidth
Information that is made up of "0s" and "1s" - computer-talk, if you will.
The storage and processing of data in positive and non-positive forms. The positive form is represented by the number 1 and non-positive by the number 0. Each of the digits is referred to as a "bit"; a string of bits that can be addressed as a group is a "byte."
The use of discrete pulses or signals to represent data (as the digits zero and one); see analog.
A way of sending voice, video, or data that reconstructs the signals using binary codes (1s and 0s) Digital transmission offers faster speeds, better accuracy, and more flexibility than analog transmission. (Contrast with analog).
Converts the terminal interface, e.g., RS-232, to line coding for transmission on the local loop.
Representation of voice or other information using digits 0 and 1. The digits are transmitted as a series of pulses. Digital networks allow for higher capacity, greater functionality and improved quality. Examples of digital cellular networks include GSM, CDMA, and TDMA.
The representation of a quantity in numeric form, normally in binary. In audio, this means that waveforms of sounds are sampled at very high frequencies, and each sample is stored in numeric form, so that the waveform can subsequently be reconstructed. See A/D converter, D/A converter, Analog.
Literally "to do with numbers". Often used to describe a device using computer technology to replace older, traditional technologies. For example, a digital camera is one that stores images electronically rather than on chemical film.
Signals encoded into discrete bits.
A representation that uses discrete mathematical values to represent an object or amount. For example, a digital thermometer uses numbers to represent the relative amount of heat. (Compare with analog.)
Having or pertaining to the use of numbers expressed in digits to represent all of the variables of a system. Using, pertaining to, or consisting of that class of devices whose performance varies only in discrete steps.
signals or states which have discrete values and do not vary continuously, opposite of analog
The storage and transmission of information by reducing it to digits and then reassembling it for an exact reproduction.
A method of encoding a transmission that involves translating information (in the case of digital phones the information would be a voice conversation) into a series of 0's and 1's. Digital communications technology offers cleaner calls without the static and distortion that is common with analog phones.
Representation of numbers in a discrete form (decimal, octal, or binary) but not in analog form (meter reading).
The modern cell phone technology that converts voice to a digital signal that is transferred over a digital network. Unlike analog, digital is more battery efficient and more secure.
Describes a system or device in which information is transferred by electrical "on-off," "high-low " or"1/0" pulses in stead of continuously varying signals or states as in an analog message.
a way of encoding information by using representative bits. [Back to Glossary Table of Contents
Describes any system based on discontinuous data transmitted as a sequence of discrete signals from a finite set. At their most basic level, computers can distinguish between just two values, 0 and 1, or off and on. There is no simple way to represent all the values in between. All data processed by a computer has to be encoded digitally as a series of 0's and 1's.
A digital piece of equipment processes sound as binary (1, 0) numbers. The system changes the numbers to analog electrical signals via a DAC (Digital to Analog converter) so that listeners can hear the sound.
Capable of processing or transferring data encoded as the discrete values 0 and 1. (See also Analog.)
A system in which the information is stored, processed and transmitted in the form of "ones" and "zeros". This can take the form of signals that are "on" or "off", or different voltage levels. The opposite of analog.
Relating to data that is represented in the form of discrete digits, as opposed to analog or continuous representation.
This type of transmission uses binary code to send information and provides high quality over any distance.
The language of computers, binary units of 0s and 1s.
The storage of data in the form of binary numbers, 0 and 1. Digital information can be copied and stored with no loss of information.
A form of information that is represented by signals at discrete intervals or steps, as contrasted to continuous or analog signals.
Is a discrete data transmission. Can only take on a limited set of values. Similar to a light switch.
A function that operates in discrete steps as contrasted with a continuous, or analog, function. Digital computers manipulate numbers encoded in binary (on-off) forms, while analog computers sum continuously varying forms. Digital communications is the transmission of information using discontinuous, discrete electrical or electromagnetic signals that change in frequency, polarity, or amplitude. Analog forms may be encoded for transmission on digital communications systems.
Any method of transmitting information through a binary system of zeros and ones. Morse code was an early form of digital communication (dots and dashes). Today, digital communication uses combinations of electrical signals (zero = off, one = on) to convey data.
A representation of data in a numerical form which consists of a discrete number of possible states. Modern computers and digital transmission systems, use the binary number system which has only two possible states, on and off, usually represented by the numbers 1 and 0 - a bit ( binary digit). Digital computers use codes consisting (usually) of 8 bits (a byte) to represent an individual character, such as a letter of the alphabet. Similarly, a digital system for storing or transmitting images will use codes to represent attributes of an image, such as colour and brightness. The numerical basis of the representation allows for sophisticated error-checking and processing which can lead to superior quality and greater capacity over any given transmission medium, such a phone line, than using an analogue representation.
A signal with binary numbers representing the levels.
An intelligence-carrying signal consisting of a stream of bits of zeros and ones for sound, video, computer data or other information.
Refers to a signal which can only take certain values within a range. The simplest example is that of a binary signal which can only take a value of 0 or 1. Digital signals are used in the majority of voice and data networks currently deployed.
Speech and data converted to coded patterns, which are transmitted/received as radio signals.
A recording technique in which sounds and/or images are converted into groups of electronic bits for storage. The groups of bits are retrieved electronically, by a laser, as a series of ones and zeroes. This binary code is converted into the audio and video images to be displayed.
The general term for communications technologies that digitize transmissions into binary code.
A device or system which can be stored and processed, where the use and representation of on/off impulses translates into 0/1 data called bits.
Information stored as bits«ones and zeros.
The representation of information in a two state format, either “on” or “off,” 1 or 0. Computer programs, information, and instructions all exist in digital form. Speech, although an analog waveform, is often converted into a digital format for transmission or storage (such as in a voice mail system). The electrical transmission and switching of speech in digital form provides greater overall quality and less noise than doing so in analog form. Most modern switches are digital switches and represent improved quality over older analog switches.
the coded representation of a waveform by, for example, binary digits in the form of pulses of light, as opposed to analogue which is the direct representation of a waveform.
Represents the amplitude and frequence of analog with codes consisting of ones and zeros. Digital technology allows for compression so that more channels can be carried. Cable operators who use digital technology often offer digital cable television, high-speed data, and digital telephone services.
Literally, "using digits". A computer is a typical digital device, which can "think" only in terms of the binary numbers one (on) and zero (off).
discrete signals such as those represented by means of bits (which are either "on" or "off") as opposed to continuously variable analog signals. Used in both electronic and light- based systems, digital signals transmit audio, video, and data as bits. Digital technology allows communications signals to be compressed for more efficient transmission and provides for faster communication with easier error prevention than analog communi- cations. Computers process the bits in the form of bytes. About a half million bytes make a single still picture on a TV screen.
Digital is often banded about as a better alternative to Analogue. With a digital handset speech is sampled to create a binary series of ones and noughts which can be transmitted, and then decoded at the other end. The advantages of this to the network operator are immediate as more calls can be compressed into the same amount of free air space, but their are advantages to the user as well. As less data is flying, and the data can be corrected for errors, quality is improved, and additional services like caller id and text messaging can also tag onto the messages. Picture messaging is now starting to take off, and the next generation of digital mobile phones, known as 3G, should feature innovations like streaming video from one handset to another.
Consisting of only on and off signals, represented as binary (1's and 0's) information. This is opposed to analogue, were a value is specified according to a signal scale.
A technology that transmits phone signals across long distances by converting voice and data into binary codes of zeros and ones and sending it across networks of small regions, one region at a time, at a certain wavelength. These networks are also known as Personal Communications Service (PCS) networks, a name branded by Sprint.
Digital is a term used to describe the storage and transmission of data in binary form. It also describes data created by or held on a computer or electronic device. Common formats such as MP3 and MPEG are ways of storing music and video in a digital form.
A method of recording, transmitting, or reproducing sound, video, or other material by sampling an analog signal and translating those samples into digital information, or data.
Data processed using the numbers 0 and 1 through on/off impulses.
Refers to exact electronic pictorial representations. Digital items are described in terms of binary digits and computer algorithms that can be entered into, and retrieved from, computer storage. Digital text is distinct from electronic text.
Digital signifies something that has only two states, 1 and 0. The difference between analog and digital is the difference between a light bulb controlled by an on/off switch and one controlled by a dimmer. Of course, your computer is digital, and it needs a lot more information than just a one or a zero to keep it running. It uses digital information, made up of a complex series of ones and zeroes, to get the job done.[See Also: Analog
using binary values (contrast w/ analogue)
A system that defines data in a discrete, non-fluctuating (i.e., non-analogue), numerical method. Similar to a binary system.
The representation of analog information as ones and zeros.
A method of decoding information for transmission. Information, or in this case, a voice conversation is turned into a series of digital bits - the 0s and 1s of computer binary language. At the receiving end, the information is reconverted. One of the main advantages of digital cellphones is that they allow several cellphones in the same area to use the same frequency simultaneously.
A way of encoding information. On digital networks, data doesn't need to go though the extra step of being converted to an analogue signal.
The representation of information as discrete digits, or bits. Contrasted with analogue representation.
Information sent as a series of high (1) and low (0) signals separated by a fixed period of time. Discrete Cosine Transform (DCT) A step used in the MPEG coding process to convert data from spatial to temporal domain.
A system whereby a variable analog signal is broken down and encoded into discrete binary bits of ones and zeros. These numbers represent a mathematical model of the original signal. When copied, they do not degrade as an analog signal does. An analog-to-digital (A/D) converter chip takes samples of the signal at a fixed time interval known as sampling frequency. This digital stream is can be recorded onto magnetic media. Upon playback, a digital-to-analog (D/A) converter chip reads the binary data and reconstructs the original analog signal. Theoretically this process should eliminate generation loss since every copy is an exact duplicate of the original. In reality, digital systems are not perfect and can introduce their own problems in maintaining the original signal. However digital signals are virtually immune to noise, distortion, cross-talk, and other quality problems.
Discrete data or signals such as 0 and 1, as opposed to analog continuous signals.
Digital refers to the circuitry in which data-carrying signals are restricted to one of two voltage levels, corresponding to logic 1 or 0.
Digital refers to the method of transmitting information in the binary system of 1's and 0's, and electrically are represented in circuits as two voltage levels, corresponding to 1 or 0.
The encoding of information, using the binary code, in such a way that values are represented by a discrete level of some electrical parameter (usually voltage).
Data or voltages consisting of discrete steps or levels, as opposed to continuously variable analog data.
Technology used in telecommunications where information is processed by first converting it to a stream of ones and zeros, permitting extremely complicated systems to be designed and manufactured at reasonable cost through the use of ASICs and computer circuitry while meeting very high performance standards.
Any form of information that can be stored as a series of 1's and 0's that is able to be recreated by a computer. Over the last decade; music, pictures, and video have all been stored in a digital format allowing for easier storage and sharing.
Information contained in the form of 0s and 1s for transmission on digital media, including fiber, microwave, and satellite. Digital information may include video, audio, graphics, and data.
The next generation of cellular phones which uses a digital signal. If monitored, digital signals sound like the high-pitched sounds of a fax machine.
The reduction of information to its most discrete and simplest form for fast transmission.
Using a binary code (discrete, non-continuous values) to represent information. Analog information can be converted into a digital format.
Describes the use of digital pulses, signals or values to represent data in computer graphics, telecommunications systems and word processing.
The form of electronic processing and transmission in which all information, including analogue waveforms and control data, is converted to binary format.
As it relates to the cellular industry: we define it as “a simple word meaning other than traditional cellular / AMPS. Example would be any CDMA, TDMA or GSM phone.
Generally, information is expressed, stored and transmitted by either analog or digital means. In a digital form, this information is seen in a binary state as either a one or a zero, a plus or a minus. The computer uses digital technology for most actions.
The use of binary code to represent information. There are two major benefits to digital signals: First, the signal can be reproduced precisely. This is especially helpful in long transmissions where the signal loses strength along the way, picking up static and other interference. Instead of just amplifying the signal (as is done in analog), the code is put through filter of sorts to delete the noise and then transmitted. The other benefit is that digital technology is becoming cheaper and more powerful, whereas analog is becoming a thing of the past.
using a series of on/off states to represent a signal.
The measurement and recording of continuously varying values of elements in the physical world, such as sound, light, temperature, etc., corresponding proportionally to values such as electronic voltage. These values are then converted into binary bits of information to be stored, or used on magnetic or optical media. Digital products include CD players, digital cameras, and computers.
Information stored as a string of numbers, most often ones and zeros.
information stored in the form of 0s and 1s; digital information may include video, audio, graphics and text.
Describes any system based on discontinuous data or events. Computers are digital machines because at their most basic level they can distinguish between just two values, 0 and 1, or off and on. There is no simple way to represent all the values in between, such as 0.25. All data that a computer processes must be encoded digitally, as a series of zeroes and ones. (See also Analog)
Transmission of data in the form of on/off electrical impulses representing digits, as opposed to the continuously varying signal of analog transmission.
Representation of information using ones and zeros. It is discretely variable as opposed to continuously variable. Data characters are coded in discrete separate, electrical pulses or signals levels. Contrast with analog.
Information represented by numbers.
Digital cellular service is considered the highest fidelity service and most versatile. CDMA and GSM are the two major digital standards. Digital coverage will soon overtake analog coverage as the standard and most widespread.
describes the way information, whether numbers, text, pictures or sound, is represented as strings of 0s or 1s (digital bits). Information in digital form can be distributed, copied, stored or manipulated in many different ways without loss of quality. Storage media for digital information is electronic, and includes computer memories, CD-ROM, and DVD. Digitisation is the conversion of analogue or print information (for example, sound or a graphical image) into digital form. (See also Analogue and Electronic.)
In terms of audio signals, the production or conversion of an analog signal into binary notation.
Digital technology means that sound is transmitted as bits of data rather than audio waves, and in theory this has many advantages – much clearer transmissions, for instance.
Information that has been converted to packets of 0's and 1's (Binary). Transmitting information digitally allows for data compression and enhanced error correction. The result is that the TV receives the full high resolution signal that is broadcast. A digital signal will never have snow or ghosts. The TV will either display a clear picture, or no picture. (All information must be converted back to analog before being displayed)
In computing, a characteristic of data that is represented as binary digits (zeros and ones).
A device or method that uses discrete variations in voltage, frequency, amplitude, location, etc. to encode, process, or carry binary (zero or one) signals for sound, video, computer data or other information. For example, a digital clock displays the time as discrete numeric values, rather than angular displacement of analog hands. Digital communications technology generally permits higher speeds of transmission with a lower error rate than can be achieved with analog technology. When analog signals are received and amplified at each repeater station, any noise is also amplified. A digital signal, however, is detected and regenerated (not amplified). Unlike amplification, any noise (less than a valid signal) is eliminated by digital regeneration.
The newest form of wireless communications that takes all voice transmissions and converts them to computer language (zeros and ones, or "binary" language) and then reconstructs them into the original voice format at the other end. More secure than its original sibling, analog, and also relatively impervious to static or fading signals.
Comprised of digits. Virtually all microprocessors operate on values composed of bits (binary digits) from which we get the term digital.
A newer method of wireless transmission (versus analog) where speech is converted into binary digits (combinations of 0 and 1) that are then transmitted to the receiver and converted into speech in a fraction of a second.
Using computer-type binary arithmetic operations. Digital music equipment uses microprocessors to store, retrieve, and manipulate information about sound in the form of numbers, and typically divides potentially continuous fluctuations in value (such as amplitude or pitch) into discrete quantized steps. Compare with analog.
camera Rather than using film, takes photos and stores them in digital form.
Expressed in digits. A set of discrete numeric values, as used by a computer. Analog information can be digitized by sampling.
When referring to video: A system of recording video images that stores information in bits (1's and 0's) to encode brightness, color and the timing information necessary to reproduce a moving image. Digital video that is copied does not suffer any loss no matter how many times it is copied.
Method of handling sound signals as sequences of numbers. Has the advantage of low noise and low distortion. Digital disk recording systems offer instantaneous fast wind and rewind and flexibility of editing.
relating to or using signals or information represented as digits using discreet values of a physical quantity such as voltage or magnetic polarisation.
the coded transmission of voice, data or video in binary digits or bits.
binary storage of information as 1s and 0s
Digital means discrete. The digital wave is comprised of a limited number of data points to encode information. In digital networks, voice is converted to a series of discrete samples that represent the original analog signal to be transmitted. Digital networks are fast, replacing analog ones as they offer improved sound quality, secure transmission and can handle data directly as well as voice. Digital networks include mobile systems GSM, D-AMPS, CDMA and TDMA.
Quantities represented by a very limited set of numbers; 0 and 1 in binary notation, and 0 to 255 in " 8 bit" computers.
Your CD player is digital. It is a series of small samples of data play together very quickly (30,000 times a second). Digital recording of information means representing the bits of data through ones and zeros. Playing the bits back to again create what was recorded is called digital processing.
Describes any system or subsystem that processes binary signals (values of 1 or 0 only). An example of a non-digital signal is an analog signal that continuously varies, such as RF or audio. DVD-RAM A high-density optical disc that can be written, erased, and rewritten by the user.
A type of representation and processing that uses data from the binary system. Values that consist of individual discrete steps, as opposed to continuously varying (analogue) data.
With digital cameras the image is not exposed on film but stored digitally as data which is then generally uploaded to a computer and viewed on screen.
In electronics, a signal coded in binary format as opposed to analogís continuously variable flow. All digital information is ultimately stored in yes/no signals that computers can process.
Referring to communications techniques and procedures whereby information is encoded as binary language, as opposed analog representation of information in variable, but continuous, wave forms.
The use of ones and zeros to represent physical information.
Technology where information is encoded before transmission.
Information encoded and expressed with the use of binary numbers representing many values in the real world. Digital information is distinguished by the fact that only predetermined values may be represented using zeros and ones. For example, a digital thermometer would display the temperature using pre-assigned values. On a digital thermometer, the temperature might read 76.2. The next higher reading available might be 76.3. The true temperature, however, could range anywhere between 76.2 and 76.3, such as 76.21, .22, .23 etc. The possible values existing between 76.2 and 76.3 are infinite, but the thermometer, limited by design, can only display pre-set values. Consequently, pinpointing exact values represented by digital data is virtually impossible. Though limited in this way, digital information has many advantages because extremely close approximations are easily achievable. Digital data is also easy to store and manipulate.
A method of sending data which uses a combination of 1s and 0s (representing 'on' or 'off') to carry the information.
Describes when information – speech, for example – is encoded before transmission using a binary code – discrete, non-continuous values. Digital networks are rapidly replacing analog ones as they offer improved sound quality, secure transmission and can handle data as well as voice. Digital networks include mobile systems GSM 900, GSM 1800, GSM 1900, D-AMPS and the cordless DECT system.
Computer formatted data or information.
Digital describes electronic technology that generates, stores and processes data in terms of two states: positive and non-positive. Positive is expressed or represented by the number 1 and non-positive by the number 0. Thus, data transmitted or stored with digital technology is expressed as a string of 0ís and 1ís. Each of these state digits is referred to as a bit. Digital technology is primarily used with new physical communications media, such as satellite and fiber optic transmission. A modem is used to convert the digital information in your computer to analog signals for your phone line and to convert analog phone signals to digital information for your computer.
The use of a binary computer code represent information. In cable, digital transmission is much clearer than analog. Digital technology also allows for more information to be processed
A form of storing, processing or transmitting information through a pulsed (rather than continuous variable) signal.
Electronic technology that generates, stores, and processes data in terms of two states. In mobile phones, speech is converted into digital data, transmitted and then converted back to normal sound by the receiving mobile phone.
A data signal transmitted using discrete steps in voltage rather than frequency, as in an analog signal.
An electrical signal that varies in discrete steps in voltage, frequency, amplitude, locations, etc.. Digital signals can be transmitted faster and more accurately than analog signals.
Indicates the representation of data by a series of bits or discrete values, such as 0s and 1s.
The representation of a signal in the form of a stream of binary numbers rather than as an analogue electrical signal.
A form in which everything is defined by a series of ones and zeros.
Information stored as binary data (ones and zeros). Because computers only understand binary, video and audio must be converted to digital before they can be stored or manipulated by a computer. A digital wave would appear square and blocky. See analog.
discrete values of electronic information expressed in numbers (stored as a series of ones and zeros), as in a watch that shows the time in numbers (as opposed to "analog").
Implies only two possible values, typically binary "true" or "false".
Wireless format which converts the signal into a code of 1's and 0's similar to computer data. When compared to analog, wireless digital transmission is better in audio quality, security and costs.
(Compare with Analog) () In the context of wireless phones: Digital signals are less prone to interference and can be securely encrypted on the fly for greater security In the context of computer headsets: Digital Headsets offer connectivity to your computer via the USB port. They require software (supplied) to function. The software can provide additional features (noise cancellation, frequency manipulations etc.)
Computers "talk" to other computers digitally. That is they store and process information as a series of numbers. Anything - including words, pictures, and sounds - can be "digitized" into the computer, then "undigitized" with a software program - like a word processor - so you an read the words, hear the sounds, or see the pictures.
The method of representing and storing audio information with numbers, generally ones and zeros, resulting in high-quality signals that suffer from very little distortion and noise compared to analog signals.
A system that is based on countable separate parts or data and may or may not be binary It would have improved efficiency if the offices had shared information in a digital format. digitally (adv), digit (n)
A process that is stepwise in nature, like the display of a digital watch (as opposed to an analog process, like the movement of the hands of a wristwatch). Within print-on-demand, the term may be used to describe the difference between analog photocopiers (which use lenses and reflected light to copy a document) and digital copiers (which actually scan the document).
Any system based on discontinuous bits of data. A typical analogue device is a clock, where the hands move continuously around the face.
Information represented as binary code.
A component that uses digits or binary coding. A tuner may be called digital because it uses numbers in its display. Digital components are usually more stable and precise than analog components.
A more current type of hearing aid that digitizes a sound, utilizing an analog-to-digital converter, prior to processing the sound. Sound represented in a digitized format can be manipulated and processed more efficiently.
Strictly speaking, digital refers to the way information is stored as a string of separate bits that represent on/off states. (The common belief that digital information is stored as a string of 1s and 0s is misleading, the bits could be any other pair of “on” and “off” symbols.) This is in contrast to analog, which represents data in a stream of continuous physical variables. Also refers to a wired, as opposed to an analog, state.
The binary coding scheme generally used in computer technology to represent data as binary bits (1s and 0s). Digital information is often contrasted to analog information. Analog information can be digitized by sampling.
A mobile telephone system which transmits voice or data by turning it into a binary code. This provides better call quality and more secure calls than analogue systems. (See also ANALOGUE).
Used in an audio context, a method of representing and storing audio information with numbers, generally ones and zeros. At some point in the system, the digital signal has to be changed to an analog electrical signal in order to be played through loudspeakers, headphones ect. See Analog.
A method of transporting analog waveforms by sampling them and translating them into a bit stream. The advantage of digital reproduction is that it can sound good over a long period of time. Records and tapes are analog; CDs are digital.
Technology that converts signals (including voice) into the binary digits ‘0' and ‘1'. This data is compressed, and then transformed into electronic pulses for a wired network, optical light waves for fiber optic networks or radio waves for wireless networks. Digital wireless technology is rapidly replacing analog, because digital offers better sound quality, more secure signals, more callers per cell site and faster data services.
A digital signal is the faster, more secure successor to analog technology. Computers, CDs, and DVDs, all rely on digital data, as opposed to phones, radios and televisions, which use analog. Source: TechSoup.org
refers to communication in which the information is approximated by a discrete series of on and off states that is an abstraction of its natural continuous form.
computer technology in which information is described as a series of (usually binary) numbers.
A way of encoding information – digital networks are fast-replacing their analogue predecessors.
A sampled analogue waveform encoded in the form of on/off pulses. The frequency with which the analog waveform is sampled is its sampling frequency which, in the case of Compact Disc, is set at 44.1kHz (44,100 samples per second). The accuracy of sampling is determined by the word length of each sample. For Compact Disc it is 16-bit. Modern professional digital recorders are capable of almost 24-bit resolution as of this date (12-15-96).
any information (text, graphics, audio, and video) that is translated into binary code.
The representation of information in binary form (ones and zeros), discontinuous in time.
Information carried as a stream of binary "1s" and "0s" instead of as an analog electric signal.
Video stored in a binary (computer) format.
A signal that is either present or absent with no levels in between. Digital circuits are immune to drift and distortion due to their all-or-nothing nature.
Electronic technology that generates, stores, and processes data in strings of 0s and 1s. Each of these digits is referred to as a bit. Computers use digital technology.
Digital means having discrete values such as 1 or 0, unlike analogue which can have continuous values. Digital watches are called digital because they go from one value to the next without displaying all intermediate values.
Component signals in which the values for each pixel are represented by a set of numbers.
Refers to information processing techniques that convert the actual data into binary (or machine language) code for more efficient transmission and storage. To retrieve the information, the binary code must be converted back to an analog signal.
A system using discrete numbers to represent data. In computer systems, these are the numbers 0 and 1 (for binary).
Information represented by non-continuous values or signals sent between cell phones. It is binary, or consists of 0 and 1.
A form of transmission that transforms analog signals, such as voice, into a series of electrical or optical pulses that represent the binary digits 0 and 1. This numerical data is then converted into various forms depending on the type of network, such as radio waves for wireless transmission, electronic pulses for a wired network or optical light waves for fiber optics. Digital networks offer superior Quality of Service (QoS), secure transmission and more bandwidth than analog lines. See Also: QoS
A quantification scheme that allows the conversion of analog information into bits of data. Digitization allows for signal compression and for maintaining signal integrity.
Said of systems whose information is represented in binary form. Compare Analog.
Digital is the use of the binary digits, 0 and 1, to represent any kind of data.
Usually refers to a device that works using data in the form of digits (0 and 1)
Information expressed in binary patterns of ones and zeros.
A piece of information recognizable, manipulate-able and can be stored, on a computer.
Digital copiers are state of the art copier technology. They scan and digitize the originals before they are reproduced. These copiers are more expensive but more precise than analogue technology copiers.
A signal that levels are represented by binary numbers.
A method of encoding the analog audio signals into digital bits of information. The advantage versus analog recording is that you can edit and play-back the digital media with little distortion and quality loss.
Method of recording pictures or sound as a binary signal [ones and zeros]. The signal can be copied without any loss of quality.
In a digital synthesizer, sounds are stored as a binary code of 1's and 0's in some form of permanent or volatile memory. This string of digits is converted to an analog signal by a Digital to Audio Converter (DAC) inside the synth. A Digital synth has very clean and stable sounds, offers lots of memory, can be lightweight and can offer much more control and variability of the sounds it can generate.
adj Operating in discrete units or steps. Not continuous. Since microcomputers operate using discrete voltages and timing pulses, they are said to be digital. Usually contrasted with analog.
Digital means by numbers. A digital watch displays the current time as a set of numbers which change abruptly at regular intervals; whereas an analogue watch models the passage of time by hands which move smoothly around its face. See also Analogue.
The measurement and recording of continuously varying values of elements in the physical world, such as sound, light, temperature, etc., which correspond proportionally to values such as electronic voltage. These values are then converted into binary (1 and 0 or on and off) bits of information.
Any system or device that stores information in a format suitable for computers to read; digital information is stored in bits, where each bit is represented as on/off or one/zero.
Whereas 'analog' formats (VHS tapes, records, cassette tapes, etc.) used magnetic signals to store information that will fade and degrade over time, digital media (such as DVDs and CDs) use 1s and 0s to store information. As long as the player can read these numbers off the disc (meaning that the disc hasn't been damaged) then it will play back like new for a long, long time.
The newest form of wireless communications, this technology takes voice transmissions and converts them into computer language (zeros and ones, or "binary" language), and then reconstructs them into the original voice format at the other end. Digital is more secure than analog and is relatively impervious to static or fading signals.
(opposite of analog) Digital information is made up of a limited number of gradations (e.g. 256 colours, 8 bit). The change from one digital element to the next is always "step by step" and not continuous.
A signal that carries information as a series of on and off pulses. Waves
Uses discrete values instead of a continuous spectrum of values. Transmission is typically thought of in the form of "0s and 1s."
Relating to devices or circuits that have outputs of only two discrete levels. Examples: 0 or 1, high or low, on or off, true or false etc.
A description of data which is stored or transmitted as a sequence of discrete symbols from a finite set, most commonly this means binary data represented using electronic signals. The opposite is analogue.
Information in discrete or quantized form; not continuous.
in binary code (as is used by computers)
The on/off signals that represent information within computerized systems. See also: analog.
Digital describes electronic technology that generates, stores, and processes data in terms of two states: positive and non-positive. Positive is expressed or represented by the number 1 and non-positive by the number 0. Thus, data transmitted or stored with digital technology is expressed as a string of 0's and 1's. Each of these state digits is referred to as a binary digit (and a string of bits that a computer can address individually as a group is a byte).
Conversion of information into bits of data for transmission through wire, fiber optic cable, satellite, or over air techniques. Method allows simultaneous transmission of voice, data or video.
A way to describe data as a sequence of discrete symbols, most often this means as binary data using electronic signals.
Of or relating to the technology of computers and data communications where all information is encoded as bits of 1s and 0s that represent on or off states.
a digital system is based around the idea of ON or OFF, so an electrical signal is either there or it isn't. This means that numbers have to be represented as a combination of 0 (OFF) or 1 (ON). This is a binary system, and the 1's and 0's are called bits.
A method of encoding information using a binary code of 0s and 1s. Most newer wireless phones and networks use digital technology.
Digital uses bits and bytes to carry signals, verses analog that uses electronic waves together with sound waves. An analog signal is slower and easier to intercept and/or interfere with.
Opposite of analog. Computer signals, the information manipulated by a computer and transferred on the Internet, are digital. A digital signal varies by discrete values only; that is any point defined within a digital signal will have the value of either 1 or 0.
Digital television technology takes the continuously varying quantities of analog, and separates them into separate and distinct levels, producing a higher quality picture than analog.
Storing information as a string of digits – namely “1â€s and “0â€s.
A method of storing, processing and transmitting information through the use of distinct electronic or optical pulses that represent the binary digits (bits) '0' and '1'. Digital technologies employ discrete pulses to represent information, as opposed to the continuously variable signals of analog technologies.
A system or device in which information is stored or manipulated by on/off impulses, so that each piece of information has an exact or repeatable value (code).
A method of storing, processing and transmitting information through the use of distinct electronic or optical pulses, as opposed to the continuously variable analog signal. Digital transmission offers a clearer signal and is virtually immune to the problems of analog such as fading and static. CDMA, TDMA and GSM are examples of high-level digital standards.
Referring to the binary representation of numerical quantities by the number of discrete signals or the presence or absence of them in particular positions.
The use of binary code to represent information. For analog signals like voice, music or effects, the sound is sampled many times a second and assigned a number to each sample. Digital technology reproduces sound exactly, and can even filter out background and electronic "noise."
Of or relating to data in the form of numerical digits in binary form.
There are two main ways of doing things electronically, analog or digital. The digital method is to consider a circuit either on or off. A digital voltage or signal refers to the discrete nature of digital voltage potentials in digital circuits. TTL (Bipolar Transistor-Transistor Logic) defines 0.0 Volts as a logic 0 or low, and 5.0 Volts as a logic 1 or high; These are single values for clarity - there are actually ranges of voltage potentials around 0.0V and 5.0V which are recognized as low and high logic levels, respectively.
A method of representing data using binary numbers. An analog* signal is converted to digital by the use of an analog-to-digital (A/D) converter chip by taking samples of the signal at a fixed time interval (sampling frequency). Assigning a binary number to these samples, this digital stream is then recorded onto magnetic tape. Upon playback, a digital-to-analog (D/A) converter chip reads the binary data and reconstructs the original analog signal. This process virtually eliminates generation loss* as every digital-to-digital copy is theoretically an exact duplicate of the original allowing multi-generational dubs* to be made without degradation. In actuality of course, digital systems are not perfect and specialized hardware/software is used to correct all but the most severe data loss. Digital signals are virtually immune to noise, distortion, crosstalk, and other quality problems. In addition, digitally based equipment often offers advantages in cost, features, performance and reliability when compared to analog equipment.
Signal format composed of two discrete, noncontinuous levels illustrated by ones and zeros.
a method of representing information as numbers with discrete values; usually expressed as a sequence of bits
The transmission of discontinuous signals in which information is encoded in binary form.
Data transmission via a fixed number of data points. Digital media includes all formats of CDs and DVDs. Digital video and audio quality is long-lasting and superior to that of analog.
Describes a component that can only process information represented by 1's or 0's, which are arranged to form binary information, such as a CD player. However digital information must be converted into analog form before being amplified or played through speakers.
Information as measured in a series of discrite or finite steps; absolute, fixed variation. The opposite of Analog
Electronic technology that processes data in a series of 0's and 1's. DSL Digital Subscriber Line, a high-speed broadband connection.
Describes a method of storing, processing and transmitting information through the use of distinct electronic or optic pulses representing the binary digits 0 and 1. In communications they will modify a carrier at a selected frequency. The precise signal transitions preclude any distortion such as graininess or snow in the case of video transmission, or static or other background distortion in the case of audio transmission.
Of or relating to a device that can read, write, or store information that is represented in numerical form.
The representation of a signal using numbers. Generally this will be in binary format, whence every value will consist of a series of '1's and '0's (Ons and Offs).
Method that uses a series of binary (0s and 1s) signals for sound, video, computer data or other information. Digital communications technology generally permits higher speeds of transmission with a lower error rate than analogue technology.
Data converted to numbers 0 and 1.
method of data storage and transmission, in which each code is given a combination of bits. Each bit indicates the presence of absence of a condition (on-off, yes-no)
A form of transmission that transforms analog signals – speech, for example – into a series of electrical or optical pulses that represent the binary digits 0 and 1. This numerical data is then converted into various forms depending on the type of network, such as electronic pulses for a wired network, optical light waves for fiber optics or radio waves for wireless transmission. Digital networks offer superior QoS, secure transmission and more bandwidth than analog lines.
An electronic signal system that depends on voltages that are turned on or off.These signal levels are always high or always low.Computers and associated technology use digital signals.Data in digital form may be copied many times with virtually no loss of quality or degradation because the data is not altered or distorted as it goes through the electronic system.
In audio, a class of signals composed of number groups that represent musical values mathematically rather than through a directly analogous relationship between pitch and frequency, amplitude and loudness.
Information represented by non-continuous values or signals sent between cell phones is referred to as digital.
A method of storing, converting and sending data in the form of binary digits; i.e., 0 or 1.
Data transmitted as discrete and discontinuous voltage pulses (off and on) represented by the binary digits 0 and 1, known as bits. In digitized text, each character is represented by a specific eight-bit sequence called a byte. Most computers used in libraries transmit data in digital format.
Information in a discrete or quantized form. See also analog.
A signal which represents values in the form of binary numbers.
"A discrete electronic signal used for storing and transferring data. The non-continuous nature of digital signals makes it relatively easy to store, manipulate, and transfer data. Digital signals are transmitted faster than analog signals."
In digital wireless phone systems, voice sounds are converted (encoded) to a binary stream of data that "describes" the sound. On the other end, the digital signal is decoded and used to reconstruct the sound.
A transmission system using a high-speed stream of 0s and 1s. A digital signal can carry far more information than an analogue signal of equivalent power.
In electronics and computing, a term meaning "coded as numbers." A digital system uses two-state—either on/off or high/low voltage—pulses to encode, receive, and transmit information. A digital display shows discrete values as numbers (as opposed to an analogue signal, such as the continuous sweep of a pointer on a dial).
The binary («1/0») output of a computer or terminal. In data communication, an alternating, non-continuous (pulsating) signal.
Pertaining to computer language and operation. A digital point-and-shoot captures and stores pictures without film, for direct use in computer software and printing applications.
Information that is stored in bits and bytes. Computer data is digital.
The alternative method for transmitting electrical signals to analogue. Binary bits characterize digital signals. A digital signal is either a binary 1 or 0, an on or off switch. There are no other digital values. The trend in modern electronics and communications is toward digital, since interference is not an issue unless it is large enough to change a signal from one extreme state to the other.
An advanced type of radio transmission that broadcasts voice or data intact via radio waves, which allows for greater call clarity, advanced wireless features and improved voice capacity. The telecommunications industry uses three types of digital technology: TDMA, CDMA and GSM.
The technology that all networks use. The digital network offers better coverage, more services and it is more secure than the old analogue network
Papers Papers designed for the speciÂ1/2c processes of the emerging digital printing technologies. Unlike traditional offset printing, the digital environment is centered in quick turnarounds, short runs, and the ability to vary printed information within the run.
A digital system is one that uses numbers, especially binary numbers, for input, processing, transmission, storage, or display. Once media messages were in analogue form that could be distorted over long distances or when copied. Digital signals consist of on and off and do not distort.
Digital is the newer way of transmitting information. Instead of using sine waves and curves to send information, information is passed as simple 1's and 0's. (On and Off respectively) These long patterns of 1's and 0's actually represent information (sound and pictures) and need to be decoded once they are received.
The use of a binary code to represent information.
The use of binary code to record information. "Information" can be text in a binary code like ASCII, or scanned images in a bit mapped form, or sound in a sampled digital form, or video. Recording information digitally has many advantages over its analog counter part, mainly ease in manipulation and accuracy in transmission.
a signal in an electrical circuit that is limited to certain discrete values.
(1) In communications and computer technology, digital refers to a method of encoding information using a binary system made up of zeroes and ones. In communications technology this takes the form of two very different electrical voltages, several volts positive and negative, to represent the two values. This substantial difference in voltages for each state makes it unlikely that minor fluctuations in voltage due to electro-magnetic interference will change the way a signal is interpreted when received. (2) Information that is encoded into bits and bytes, or packets (0s and 1s, computer binary language). Generally perceived to be an advanced communication form offering clearer signals and increased transmission capacity.
A scheme for representing data via quantized, discrete steps. See analog.
A signal that consists of discrete states. A binary signal has only two states, 0 and 1. Antonym of analog.
Digital data is data that is either on or off, one or zero, high or low. A pushbutton is a good example of data that is represented digitally. The button is either pressed, or not pressed. The amount that the pushbutton is pressed is not measured. A pushbutton that is pressed half-way down is still considered to be "off" until it makes final contact with the microswitch beneath it, at which point it is considered "on." Compare to Analog.
An electrical signal converted into a form consisting purely of on-off pulses, similar to those found within computers. The nature of this transmission system eliminates most errors and distortion, providing a more reliable means of sending information.
Signals that have only two discrete states: on and off; describes computers because they are electronic devices powered by electricity, which also has only two states: on or off. 4.13, 5.21
Pertaining to a class of devices or circuits in which the output varies in discrete steps (i.e. pulses or "on-off" operation).
Pertaining to data in the form of digits. In signals, digital refers to a signal that assumes one of a predetermined set of values, such as 0 to 1, as opposed to a signal that may assume any value over a continuing range of values, such as an analog signal.
The process of representing and processing information that has been converted to binary numeric data. A digital image is made up of rows and columns of individual picture elements (pixels). In a full color RGB image each pixel is encoded as three 8 bit binary numbers which represent the brightness level each of the three colors (RGB). Because the entire image is recorded as a vast array of numbers it is possible for a computer to perform calculations on those numbers in order to manipulate the images.
A method for handling, storing and transmitting information based on the use of distinct electronic or optic pulses that represent the binary codes 0 and 1. Digital transmission techniques employ the sequences of these pulses to represent information, instead of infinite varied analogue signals. Digital technique offers a three-time improvement both in regards to rate and capacity as compared to the analogue technique. The result is a more cost efficient transmission of voice, video and data.
industry: Information represented as discrete numeric values, such as 0 and 1. The opposite of analog. In digitization, which is what a scanner does, the flow of information is sampled at regular intervals and converted into numeric values.
Information converted into bits of data for transmission through any medium such as wire, fiber optic cable, satellite or over the air techniques.
A signal defined in bits, which can be used to sample audio rate.
A system of numbers, primarily binary numbers, that computers understand. In industrial automation, digital refers to data that can take one of only two states: on or off (or running/stopped, open/close, true/false, and so on). See Opto 22 digital I/O modules.
A system of mathematics consisting solely of zeros and ones. The mathematics used by digital computers. Used to represent characters and numbers and to mathematically manipulate these.
An electrical signal which varies overtime and can take on only one of two values: High and low
A description of information encoded as one of two states, either binary "0" (off) or binary "1" (on). These are referred to as binary digits or bits. See also Analogue.
A discrete or discontinuous signal whose various states are identified with specified values. (See analog, RS-232, 7'TL.)
A digital system is one that uses discrete values (often electrical voltages), especially those representable as binary numbers, or non-numeric symbols such as letters or icons, for input, processing, transmission, storage, or display, rather than a continuous spectrum of values (ie, as in an analog system).