Definition checkpoint: A device that converts an analog input quantity into a digital output code is called a(n) ________.

Introduction / Context:
Signal-chain terminology must be precise: choosing the right component depends on knowing whether you need analog-to-digital (ADC) or digital-to-analog (DAC) conversion, and recognizing subclasses such as flash, SAR, sigma-delta, and pipeline.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Input is analog (voltage/current/time-varying).
• Output is digital (coded value).
• We seek the generic device name.

Concept / Approach:
An analog-to-digital converter (ADC) samples and quantizes an analog signal into a digital number. A “flash converter” is a specific ADC architecture. A DAC performs the inverse operation (digital to analog). “Bipolar converter” is not the generic term for A/D conversion (it can mean bipolar input handling, not conversion direction).

Step-by-Step Solution:
1) Map direction: analog → digital implies ADC.2) Exclude inverse devices: DAC is digital → analog.3) Recognize flash as a subtype of ADC, not the generic name.4) Conclude the correct term is ADC.

Verification / Alternative check:
Any data converter catalog groups flash, SAR, sigma-delta, pipeline under the ADC category, confirming the generic terminology.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
DAC converts the other way. Flash is only one ADC type. Bipolar converter does not denote A/D conversion generically.

Common Pitfalls:
Using architecture names (flash) when a broad category (ADC) is requested; mixing up conversion directions.

Final Answer:
ADC