What does an A/D converter do?

An A/D (Analog-to-Digital) converter plays a crucial role in converting incoming analog signals, which can include sound waves or voltage levels, into a digital format. This process involves sampling the continuous electrical waveforms and translating them into discrete values or strings of mathematical bits, allowing the digital system to process and utilize the data effectively. This conversion is essential in various applications, including hearing aids, where incoming sound is captured in an analog form and must be converted into a digital format for further processing, adjustment, and amplification.

The other options highlight different processes or functionalities that do not primarily describe the role of an A/D converter. For instance, converting digital signals into analog pertains to D/A (Digital-to-Analog) conversion, while adjusting sound levels or enhancing sound quality focus on signal processing rather than the conversion of signal types.