Introduction to Digital Signal Processing and Filter Design

CHAPTER 1

Introduction

1.1 INTRODUCTION

We are living in an age of information technology. Most of this technology is based on the theory of digital signal processing (DSP) and implementation of the theory by devices embedded in what are known as digital signal processors (DSPs). Of course, the theory of digital signal processing and its applications is supported by other disciplines such as computer science and engineering, and advances in technologies such as the design and manufacturing of very large scale integration (VLSI) chips. The number of devices, systems, and applications of digital signal processing currently affecting our lives is very large and there is no end to the list of new devices, systems, and applications expected to be introduced into the market in the coming years. Hence it is difficult to forecast the future of digital signal processing and the impact of information technology. Some of the current applications are described below.

1.2 APPLICATIONS OF DSP

Digital signal processing is used in several areas, including the following:

1. Telecommunications. Wireless or mobile phones are rapidly replacing wired (landline) telephones, both of which are connected to a large-scale telecommunications network. They are used for voice communication as well as data communications. So also are the computers connected to a different network that is used for data and information processing. Computers are used to generate, transmit, and receive an enormous amount of information ...