PCM (pulse code modulation) describes a process that converts analog audio signals (represented by waveforms) into digital audio signals (represented by ones and zeros) without compression. This process makes it possible to record a musical performance, film score, or other pieces of audio in a smaller space, virtually and physically.
What is PCM audio?
PCM analog-to-digital audio conversion can be complex depending on the content being converted, the desired quality, and how the information is stored, transferred, and distributed.
In basic terms, a PCM audio file is a digital interpretation of an analog sound wave. Its purpose is to replicate the properties of an analog audio signal as closely as possible.
Analog to PCM conversion is accomplished through a process called sampling. Analog sound travels in waves, unlike PCM, which is a series of ones and zeros. To capture analog sound with PCM, specific points on the sound wave coming from a microphone or other analog audio source must be sampled.
