DAC output nature — “The output of a digital-to-analog converter is truly an analog signal.” Evaluate this claim considering real DAC behavior.

Introduction / Context:
DACs translate numeric codes into voltages or currents. While the output is an electrical (analog-domain) quantity, practical DACs produce discrete step changes with finite settling time, glitch energy, and update rate. The statement claims the output is “truly” analog; we must interpret this against signal theory and hardware realities.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Zero-order hold behavior between code updates.
• Finite resolution (LSB size) and finite settling time.
• No external analog reconstruction filter unless stated.

Concept / Approach:
A stand-alone DAC output is piecewise-constant: it jumps in quantized steps at update instants, then holds. Although the amplitude is continuous within tolerance (not logic-level digital), it is not a perfectly continuous-time, band-limited analog waveform. To obtain a smooth analog signal, designers often follow the DAC with a reconstruction (low-pass) filter that removes images/steps and approximates the desired waveform.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Common Pitfalls:

Final Answer: