D/A converter
(Digital/Analog converter) A device that converts digital code into analog signals. D/A converters (DACs) are used to convert digital audio signals to analog signals for amplifiers and speakers. They are also used to convert digital video to analog TV (NTSC, PAL). The D/A converter (DAC) may be a circuit within a chip, a single chip or a stand-alone device. See DSP, codec and ladder DAC.Stand-Alone Digital Video Converters
D/A converters (DACs) housed in set-top boxes are essential to adapt older analog TVs to digital TV signals (see TV converter box). See DTV.
Stand-Alone Digital Audio Converters
Stand-alone D/A converters (DACs) are used by audiophiles to convert digital audio from a CD player, cable box, DVD player or computer sound card to analog signals for the amplifiers and speakers. Although D/A converter circuits are built into all A/V equipment, stand-alone DACs employ circuits that are considered higher quality. For example, a D/A converter connected to a PC via USB (a USB DAC) bypasses the D/A conversion in the sound card. Contrast with A/D converter.
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| A USB DAC |
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| People like to organize their music on the computer and play it on their stereo system. The USB DAC provides a high-quality connection for this purpose (for details, see USB DAC). (Image courtesy of Firestone Audio, www.firestone-audio.com) |
| D/A converter - Digital to Analog Converter |
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