Signal detection is a process of identifying a signal buried in noise. Its spelling can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), which represents sounds in words. Signal is spelled as /ˈsɪɡnəl/, with the stress on the first syllable /ˈsɪɡ/. This word starts with the voiceless consonant /s/ and ends with a voiced nasal consonant /l/. Detection is spelled as /dɪˈtɛkʃən/, with the stress on the second syllable /tɛk/. This word begins with the voiced consonant /d/ and ends with the unvoiced nasal consonant /n/.
Signal detection refers to the process of detecting, recognizing, and interpreting signals or stimuli that are embedded in background noise or clutter. It is a psychological and statistical concept used to describe the ability to differentiate between the presence and absence of a signal in a noisy environment.
In psychology, signal detection theory (SDT) is a widely used framework for studying discrimination and decision-making processes. SDT asserts that the detection of a signal involves both sensory processes and decision-making based on internal criteria. The theory suggests that individuals utilize their sensory sensitivity (known as sensitivity or d') and their decision criterion (bias) in order to make judgments about the presence or absence of a signal.
The concept of signal detection is also frequently employed in fields such as engineering, communication, and medicine. In these domains, signal detection refers to the ability of an electronic system or instrument to detect and identify a desired signal from background noise or interference. For example, in radar systems, signal detection is crucial for identifying and tracking objects in the presence of clutter or jamming.
Overall, signal detection encompasses the theoretical and practical aspects of detecting and distinguishing relevant signals from noise or interference. Understanding signal detection is important in various fields where accurate and reliable identification of signals is essential for decision-making, diagnosis, or effective communication.
The term "signal detection" has its etymology in the fields of communications, engineering, and psychology.
The word "signal" originates from the Latin word "signum", meaning mark, sign, or indication. It entered the English language in the 16th century and originally referred to a visible or audible sign used for communication.
The term "detection" comes from the Latin word "detectus", which means to uncover, discover, or reveal. It entered the English language in the 15th century, derived from the Latin verb "detegere", which combines "de-" (meaning "from" or "away") and "tegere" (meaning "to cover").
When these two terms, "signal" and "detection", are combined as "signal detection", they refer to the process of identifying, perceiving, or recognizing the presence of a signal among noise or other interference in a given context.