In a stairstep ramp ADC, what is the primary output signal type?

In a stairstep ramp ADC (Analog-to-Digital Converter), the primary output signal is a step signal. This type of converter produces a digital output by converting the input analog voltage level into discrete steps, hence creating a staircase-like waveform. As the input voltage changes, the output steps up to the next level at predetermined voltage values, rather than changing continuously. This characteristic makes a step signal the most accurate description of the primary output produced by this type of ADC.

The continuous voltage option is misleading because it implies a smooth transition, which is not representative of the output behavior of a stairstep ramp ADC. Similarly, a pulsed voltage suggests an on-off characteristic, which does not reflect the step transitions that occur in the output as the input changes. An analog waveform would generally indicate a continuous flow of voltage that doesn’t involve the discrete steps or levels produced by this specific ADC type, further confirming that step signal accurately captures the essence of the output.