What is the role of a comparator in an ADC system?

The role of a comparator in an Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC) system is to compare input voltages. Specifically, it continuously evaluates the analog input signal against a reference voltage. When the input voltage surpasses this reference level, the comparator provides an output that indicates whether the input is higher or lower than the reference. This comparison is crucial in determining the digital representation of the analog signal, as it helps in quantizing the continuous voltage levels into discrete steps that can be processed by digital systems.

In ADCs, the comparator is fundamental for the conversion process, as it allows the system to decide when a particular range of input voltage corresponds to a certain digital code. This comparison facilitates effective sampling and ensures accurate translations from analog signals to their digital counterparts, which are essential for digital signal processing.

The other functions listed do not accurately describe the primary function of the comparator within the context of ADC systems. While amplifying signals, data storage, or generating digital outputs are essential roles in a broader electronic system, they do not align with the specific function of a comparator, which is focused primarily on voltage comparisons.