1. What is the difference between analog and digital signals?
Analog signals are continuous in time and amplitude, representing data using variable physical
quantities. Digital signals are discrete, representing data using binary values (0s and 1s).
2. What is modulation? Why is it necessary in communication systems?
Modulation is the process of varying a carrier signal in accordance with the information signal. It is
necessary to transmit signals over long distances, avoid interference, and allow multiplexing.
3. Explain the difference between amplitude modulation (AM) and frequency modulation (FM).
In AM, the amplitude of the carrier signal varies based on the input signal. In FM, the frequency of
the carrier signal changes based on the input signal.
4. What is a diode? Explain its working principle.
A diode is a semiconductor device that allows current to flow in one direction only. It works on the
principle of p-n junction, where it conducts in forward bias and blocks in reverse bias.
5. What is the difference between a microprocessor and a microcontroller?
A microprocessor is a CPU on a chip, used in PCs and laptops. A microcontroller has a CPU,
memory, and I/O ports integrated into one chip, used in embedded systems.
6. Explain the working of an operational amplifier.
An op-amp is a high-gain voltage amplifier with differential inputs and usually a single-ended output.
It amplifies the voltage difference between its input terminals.
7. What is sampling theorem?
The sampling theorem states that a signal can be reconstructed perfectly if it is sampled at a rate
greater than twice its highest frequency component (Nyquist rate).
8. What is multiplexing? Name different types.
Multiplexing is a technique to combine multiple signals into one. Types include Time Division
Multiplexing (TDM), Frequency Division Multiplexing (FDM), and Code Division Multiplexing (CDM).
9. What are the differences between RAM and ROM?
RAM is volatile memory used for temporary data storage. ROM is non-volatile memory used to store
firmware or permanent data.
10. What is a flip-flop? Name different types.
A flip-flop is a digital memory circuit that stores one bit of data. Types include SR, JK, D, and T
flip-flops.
11. Explain how a transistor works as a switch.
A transistor acts as a switch when used in saturation (ON) and cutoff (OFF) modes. It allows or
blocks current flow depending on the base current.
12. What is the function of a filter in a communication system?
Filters allow certain frequency components to pass while attenuating others. They are used to
remove noise and separate signals.
13. What is the Nyquist rate?
The Nyquist rate is twice the highest frequency present in a signal. It is the minimum sampling rate
required to avoid aliasing.
14. What is the difference between time division multiplexing (TDM) and frequency division
multiplexing (FDM)?
TDM divides time into slots for each signal. FDM divides the frequency band into separate channels
for each signal.
15. What is signal-to-noise ratio (SNR)? Why is it important?
SNR is the ratio of signal power to noise power. Higher SNR indicates better signal quality and is
crucial for reliable communication.
