Define "signal conditioning".

Signal conditioning refers to the process of manipulating a signal to make it suitable for further processing, which can include amplification, conversion, filtering, and/or level shifting. It ensures that the signal is within an acceptable range and format for the next stage of processing, such as analog-to-digital conversion or analysis by control systems. Signal conditioning is crucial because raw signals can be too weak, too noisy, or in a format that is incompatible with the receiving equipment, and thus require adjustment to meet the specifications necessary for accurate measurement or control.

Manipulation of the signal can involve amplifying weak signals, filtering out unwanted noise, or adjusting the signal levels to match the input requirements of subsequent equipment. This comprehensive approach ensures that signals are reliable and usable for accurate interpretation or automation in various applications within electrical and instrumentation systems.