Which component in PCM is responsible for converting analog signal amplitudes to digital form?

Quantization is the process in Pulse Code Modulation (PCM) that converts the amplitude of analog signals into a digital format. This step involves mapping the continuous range of analog signal values into a finite number of levels, enabling the representation of the signal with precise numerical values. During quantization, each sampled amplitude is assigned to the nearest value within these discrete levels, which is crucial for accurately capturing the nuances of the original signal.

This process is essential because it allows for the transformation of an analog waveform—characterized by an infinite number of variation levels—into a digital signal that can be processed and transmitted efficiently by digital systems. By converting the amplitudes into distinct quantized values, PCM can maintain the integrity of the original signal while enabling it to be handled by digital circuitry and communication systems.

While sampling involves measuring the analog signal at specific intervals and encoding refers to the conversion of quantized values into a binary representation, it is quantization that specifically pertains to the conversion of analog signal amplitudes to their digital representation.