Glossary

ADC (Analog to Digital Converter)

This is a device that converts a signal from an analog voltage to a digital stream of numbers and can traditionally be used in either an audio or control signal context. Within the Daisy platform, when we use the term ADC, we are generally referring to the Daisy peripheral that is used for reading knobs, or CV inputs, and not the actual audio converters.

Bootloader

A small program in embedded systems responsible for initializing the hardware and loading the main application firmware. Stored in non-volatile memory, the bootloader executes immediately after the device powers on or resets.

Daisy

An embedded platform for creating audio devices. Daisy provides a cohesive ecosystem of software and hardware for creating audio devices such as guitar pedals, synthesizers, samplers, and more.

Embedded

Refers to a microcontroller-based system designed to perform a specific, dedicated function as part of a larger device or application. Unlike general-purpose computing systems, embedded microcontroller systems are optimized for efficiency, real-time performance, and specific tasks, often operating with limited resources such as memory, power, and processing capability.

Firmware

Software programmed into the non-volatile memory of an embedded device, serving as the low-level control code that interfaces directly with the hardware. Unlike general-purpose software, firmware is often tightly coupled to the hardware and is typically designed for stability and efficiency.

Hardware

The physical components of an embedded system, including the PCB, microcontroller, sensors, power supply, and other electronic devices. In the context of embedded electronics, hardware refers to the tangible circuitry and devices that interact directly with firmware to perform specific tasks.