DSP (digital signal processing) is the mathematical manipulation of an information signal to modify or improve it. It also stands for digital signal processor, a specialized microprocessor designed specifically to execute these mathematical operations, like fast Fourier transforms, in real time. Engineers use DSPs in audio gear, radar, and telecommunications to filter noise, compress data, or extract specific frequencies.
The raw audio sounds terrible until it runs through the DSP for noise cancellation.
Also heard as
- digital signal processor
- digital signal processing
Related terms
Signal processing
The mathematical manipulation of physical data streams to filter, compress, or extract information.
Fourier transform
A mathematical operation that breaks a time-based signal into its constituent frequencies.
Microprocessor
An integrated circuit that contains all the functions of a central processing unit.