Abstract:
A differential pulse code communication system is disclosed with sign prediction coding which reduces the number of digits required to describe the levels produced in the quantization of the differential signal. In the system the sign of the largest positive and negative levels of the quantizer are predicted by assuming that they have the same sign as the previous level. If the prediction is wrong a lower level with the correct sign is transmitted rather than the level with the predicted sign. Because of the prediction, additional levels may be added in the quantizer in the space otherwise reserved for the signs predicted without increasing the pulse rate of the system.