Baseband Signal Processing and Digital to Analog Converters

In summary, the use of digital to analog converters (DACs) in transmitters is necessary because digital signals are typically processed at baseband, but the carrier frequency used for modulation is at a higher frequency. This requires the use of an intermediate frequency (IF) signal and mixing to the desired carrier frequency. DACs are needed to transform the digital signals to analog signals for transmission over the wireless channel. Despite the presence of analog signals at the output of the modulation block, DACs are still necessary due to the need for IF signals and the challenges of creating a digital signal processor that can work with all carrier frequencies.
  • #1
SriHarsha Korada
Hi Guys,
I have a question on the need for Digital to analog converters in Transmitters. To elaborate bit further:

1) Because of the advantages of the Digital signals, most go the signal processing in wireless communications is performed in baseband. But my question is: Since digital modulation is also a part of baseband processing, how can we still say its baseband as a carrier signal (which has high centre frequency) is used for modulation?
and

2) The output of baseband processing block In the transmitter side, is given to Digital to Analog converter in order to transform the digital signal to analog signal that can be sent over the wireless Channel Here my question is: Anyway due to to digital modulation, analog signal is present at the output of Modulation block and why still the point of DAC?

Even though, these questions seem basic, I need some explanation on this stuff. Hope to hear some valuable answers.

BR,
Sri
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Engineering news on Phys.org
  • #2
A digital signal processor is usually designed around a particular clock frequency, which would probably not be related to the wanted transmit carrier frequency. As with nearly all comms processes (analogue or digital) it is usual to produce a standard IF (analogue intermediate frequency) signal with suitable spectrum filtering which is mixed down or up to the required carrier frequency. The aggravation of making a DSP unit that would work at all carrier frequencies would be just too great.
 
  • #3
sophiecentaur said:
A digital signal processor is usually designed around a particular clock frequency, which would probably not be related to the wanted transmit carrier frequency. As with nearly all comms processes (analogue or digital) it is usual to produce a standard IF (analogue intermediate frequency) signal with suitable spectrum filtering which is mixed down or up to the required carrier frequency. The aggravation of making a DSP unit that would work at all carrier frequencies would be just too great.

So, you mean to say that the carrier frequency being used at digital modulator is some kind of Intermediate frequency? Even in that scenario also, the output would be analog in nature. But again why DAC?
 

1. What is baseband signal processing?

Baseband signal processing refers to the manipulation and analysis of signals that have not been modulated onto a carrier frequency. These signals typically have a frequency range of 0 Hz to a maximum frequency, and are used in digital communication systems.

2. What is the purpose of digital to analog converters?

Digital to analog converters (DACs) are used to convert digital signals, which are represented by discrete values, into analog signals, which have a continuous range of values. This is necessary for devices that require analog signals, such as speakers or displays, to function.

3. How does baseband signal processing differ from broadband signal processing?

Baseband signal processing deals with signals that have a narrow frequency range and are not modulated onto a carrier frequency, while broadband signal processing deals with signals that have a wider frequency range and are modulated onto a carrier frequency. Baseband signals are typically used in digital communication systems, while broadband signals are used in analog communication systems.

4. What are some common applications of baseband signal processing and digital to analog converters?

Baseband signal processing and digital to analog converters are used in a variety of applications, including telecommunications, audio and video processing, instrumentation and control systems, and medical devices. They are also essential in modern digital technologies such as smartphones, computers, and internet of things devices.

5. What are some challenges in baseband signal processing and digital to analog converters?

Some challenges in baseband signal processing and digital to analog converters include maintaining signal integrity, minimizing noise and distortion, and ensuring accurate and efficient conversion between digital and analog signals. Additionally, as technology advances and the demand for higher bandwidth and faster data rates increases, there is a constant need for improved baseband signal processing and DAC designs to keep up with these demands.

Similar threads

Digital Electronics: Image Frequencies & Nyquist/Shannon Theorems
    • Electrical Engineering
Replies
7
Views
3K
Rf basics, digital vs analog info tx
    • Electrical Engineering
Replies
8
Views
2K
How can I convert audio signals into pulses for radio transmission?
    • Electrical Engineering
Replies
20
Views
1K
Intermediate Frequency vs Baseband Signal Processing
    • Electrical Engineering
Replies
3
Views
11K
Understanding Analog-to-Digital Conversion for Digital Computing and Processing
    • Electrical Engineering
Replies
9
Views
2K
Convert VCR analog TV output to digital TV input
    • Computing and Technology
Replies
11
Views
3K
Question about coaxial digital to analog converters
    • Electrical Engineering
Replies
7
Views
3K
Monitoring a 24 kHz frequency, logging a digital dB reading
    • Electrical Engineering
Replies
14
Views
2K
Magnetic encoder signal processing
    • Electrical Engineering
Replies
2
Views
1K
Understanding ADC Vocabulary: Analog to Digital Converter Output Terminology
    • Electrical Engineering
Replies
7
Views
2K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top