Digital Signal Processing – Applications

Digital signal processing is the technique used to analyze various digital signals and obtain information from the same. It is also used to transfer information from one place to another and involves conversion between analog and digital signals.

It finds its application in various areas ranging from broadcasting to medicine.

Let us have a look at some of the applications of the same.

Biomedical Applications

DSP is used extensively in the field of biomedicine. In it, the various signals generated by the different organs in the human body are measured to find information regarding the health of the same. For example, in the case of electrocardiograms, the electric signals generated by the heart are measured. Similarly, the activity of the brain is monitored by electroencephalograms.

Automatic Control

These days, many gadgets are available that can perform their tasks automatically. These devices contain various components that can take inputs depending on the surrounding conditions. These are conveyed to the device’s control unit, where they are processed, and the necessary action is taken. For example, a device like a thermostat increases its resistance in proportion to temperature. This can be used to stem the current in a machine whenever the temperature rises.

Broadcasting

DSP is used on a large scale for the broadcast of both television and radio programs. In recording the audio itself, a large amount of processing of the sound waves takes place to enhance the same. Then, the signals are converted into digital format and are broadcasted and received at the respective receivers. They are again converted into the analogous format and then filtered to remove the noise. Thus, the output of the radio, TV, etc., is generated.

Telecommunication

DSP is used to the greatest extent in this field. The various conversations that one carried out these days are through DSP, which is used in the transfer of the signals from one point to the other. Various methods are available to transfer these audio signals. For example, if satellites are used, the audio waves are first converted into electromagnetic waves and then transferred over a wireless medium. On the other hand, in optical fibers, the waves are converted into light waves and are then transferred through these fibers.

Navigation

DSP is used to a great extent in navigation. Devices or systems such as SONAR or Radar work primarily based on DSP. For example, SONAR makes use of sound waves (signals) to calculate the depth. On the other hand, radars use radio waves to communicate the locations of various objects in a particular radius.

Apart from those mentioned above, digital signal processing has various other applications. For example, it is used in cars, remote controls, seismic analysis, etc. Thus, DSP proves to be one of the most useful techniques developed in modern times.