What does ASK stand for?
| Full form | Amplitude-Shift Keying |
|---|---|
| Category | Science & engineering |
| Type | Initialism |
The initialism ASK stands for Amplitude-Shift Keying. It is digital modulation in which different carrier-amplitude levels represent data values.
In a simple binary example, one amplitude level represents 1 and another represents 0. On-off keying, or OOK, uses no carrier for one state and is a special case. ASK identifies the modulation method; it does not identify the bit rate, frequency band or a complete communications protocol.
Meaning in context
- Amplitude
- The carrier level is the property varied to represent data.
- Shift Keying
- Discrete signal states encode digital values. In the simple binary example, there are two amplitude states.
Practical examples
Describe two states
- Before
ASK sends every bit at exactly the same amplitude.
- After
In this binary ASK example, a larger carrier amplitude represents 1 and a smaller amplitude represents 0.
The two stated levels make the encoding understandable. This is one illustrative mapping, not a rule for every system.
Recognize OOK
- Before
If the carrier is absent for 0, the signal cannot be ASK.
- After
With a carrier present for 1 and absent for 0, this is OOK, a special case of ASK.
An off state is an amplitude state; it does not automatically place the method outside ASK.
Original illustrative examples, not quotations or reports of actual events.
Use ASK with clarity
How do I explain the difference between binary ASK and its on-off special case?
See all guidance
Explain binary ASK
State which amplitude level represents each bit in your example.
Our example uses high amplitude for 1 and low amplitude for 0.
Explain OOK
Name the state for which the carrier is switched off.
Our OOK example uses no carrier for 0.
Describe a system
Record modulation separately from other link properties.
The link uses ASK; its operating band and bit rate are specified elsewhere.
These are illustrative exercises. The tool prepares a draft in your browser; it does not inspect your system, change settings or confirm the facts you enter.
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By AcronymIndex Editorial Team · Editorial policy