Chapter 4

PCM Encoding
4.1

Objectives

To be able to enumerate and describe the different processes involved in PCM encoding.
To be able to characterize the different PCM encoding schemes available in TIMS
namely, 7-bit linear, 4-bit linear and 4-bit companding schemes.

4.2

Removable Modules Needed

PCM Encoder

4.3

Preparation

PCM Encoding involves the following processes discussed in todays lecture.

4.3.1

Sampling of the analog message

Sampling converts the original analog signal into a discrete time signal.

4.3.2

Quantizing

Quantizing converts the continuous analog values into discrete values. Quantizing may be
uniform or non-uniform.
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CHAPTER 4. PCM ENCODING

4.3.3

Encoding

Encoding converts the voltage levels from the quantizer into digital code words. Binary
and gray code encoding were discussed in the lecture.

4.3.4

Framing

The code word is assembled into a time frame, possibly with other bits. For example, the
TIMS PCM Encoder inserts a single extra bit at the least significant bit(LSB) position.
The extra bit is alternately a one or a zero. This could be used by decoders for frame
synchronization.

4.4

Tasks

Use the following PCM Encoder Settings:

Set a PCM Encoder to 4-bit linear.
Connect the 8.333 kHz sample clock from the master signals module to the input,
CLK.

4.4.1

Task 0: Input Sampling

On your own, list down the requirements for the input signal.
Is there a limit to the amplitude of the input?
How about the bandwidth of the input?

4.4.2

Task 1: TIMS Framing

Read the TECHNICAL DETAILS section of the TIMS manual for the PCM Encoder.
Draw and label completely a single frame, given an input of zero volts.
What is the frame width in bits? in seconds?
What is the output bit rate? What is the sampling rate?
What is the code word for this particular sample?
Show results to your instructor.

4.5. REFERENCES

4.4.3

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Task 2: Quantization and Encoding

Connect the input to a variable DC voltage source.

Given a constant sample voltage, the TIMS encoder would output a constant code
word.
Observe that when the input voltage source is varied, the code word would change
at some particular voltage levels.
Measure and list all of these transition voltages. What are these voltages called?
What is the step-size?
We cant see the output of the quantizer; but assuming that the representation levels are in the middle of the transition voltages, plot the quantizer output-input
characteristic for the whole range of Vin on paper.
How many representation levels do we have?
Determine the binary numbers associated for each representation level.
Submit your results today.

4.4.4

Task 3: 4-bit Companding

Set the PCM Encoder to 4-bit companding.

Set and note the type of companding.
Take down the transition voltages.
Homework: Plot the TIMS companding characteristics versus the standard(either the
A-87.6 Law or u-255 Law).

4.5

References

TIMS Fundamental Digital Experiments.

Haykin, Simon. Communication Systems, 4/e.