What is the difference between ADC and DAC?

But there are also philosophical differences in how to use these converters and people's cognition. In the simplest terms, ADC is used to capture a large number of unknown signals and convert them into known descriptions. Instead, a DAC accepts a fully known and deeply understood description and then "simply" generates an equivalent analog value. In short, DAC works in some fields, ADC works in random input signals and unknown fields, as long as the input is within the specified range. In the traditional signal processing theory, such as Harry L.Van Trees' classic book Detection, Estimation and Modulation Theory, signal processing is facing challenges to varying degrees. For example, a signal with clear characteristic parameters (such as an AM-modulated analog signal) is much easier to evaluate than a signal full of many unknown parameters (such as radar reflected waves disturbed by noise). So the challenge faced by ADC is indeed much bigger than that of DAC. In order to give full play to the functions of ADC, especially high-performance (speed or accuracy) ADC, it is necessary to adjust the input channel with carefully designed analog signals, usually with ADC drivers that match the ADC itself accurately. The design of DAC is much simpler. However, this relative simplicity should not make designers feel relaxed about DAC design. Author: Schweber