What is the role of an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) in avionics, and what kinds of signals are commonly converted?

• A. The ADC turns digital values into analog signals for the data bus.
• B. The ADC turns analog sensor data (temperature, pressure, current, voltages) into digital values for the data bus and flight computers.
• C. The ADC converts GPS signals to digital.
• D. The ADC converts audio signals for cockpit communications.

Answer: (B)

The main idea is that an analog-to-digital converter provides the bridge from real-world measurements to digital avionics. In aircraft systems, many sensors generate analog signals—temperature sensors in engines or environmental controls, pressure transducers for pitot/static and hydraulic systems, and electrical sensors that monitor current and voltage in power systems. The ADC samples these analog signals and converts them into digital numbers that can be read by the data bus and flight computers. This digital representation allows the avionics to monitor conditions, run control algorithms, log data, and issue alarms or actions as needed.

While ADCs can be involved in other paths like GPS front-ends or cockpit audio, the role described here—turning analog sensor data into digital values for digital processing—is what makes this answer best.