Which device is used to convert analog signals into digital signals?

An Analog to Digital Converter (ADC) is specifically designed to transform analog signals, which are continuous and can take on any value within a given range, into digital signals, which are discrete and represented in binary form. This conversion process enables digital circuits and systems to process, store, and transmit information that originates from the analog world.

Analog signals, such as sound, light, or temperature, must be digitized to be manipulated by digital systems like computers or microcontrollers. The ADC samples the analog input at a specific rate and quantizes the signal into digital values, typically represented as binary numbers. This capability is crucial in various applications, from audio processing to data acquisition systems.

In contrast, a Digital to Analog Converter (DAC) serves the opposite function, converting digital signals back into analog form. An amplifier boosts the signal strength of either analog or digital signals but does not perform any conversion between the two. A microcontroller is a versatile and programmable device that can manage tasks but does not inherently convert signals unless it is integrated with ADC capabilities. Therefore, the ADC is the correct device in this context for analog to digital signal conversion.