encoder

n. person or thing that converts messages into code

An encoder is a device used to change a signal (such as a bitstream) or data into a code. The code may serve any of a number of purposes such as compressing information for transmission or storage, encrypting or adding redundancies to the input code, or translating from one code to another. This is usually done by means of a programmed algorithm, especially if any part is digital, while most analog encoding is done with analog circuitry.
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v. encode, encrypt

See analog-to-digital converter.

1. <algorithm, hardware> Any program, circuit or algorithm which encodes.
Example usages: "MPEG encoder", "NTSC encoder", "RealAudio encoder".
2. A sensor or transducer for converting rotary motion or position to a series of electronic pulses.
(1997-03-04)