Most computers are digital devices. Therefore, any signals and data from an analog device must be passed through a suitable analog-to-digital converter before they can be received and processed by computer. Similarly, output signals from digital computers must be passed through a digital-to-analog converter before they can be received by an analog device.

Pertaining to or being a device or signal that is continuously varying in strength or quantity, such as voltage or audio, rather than based on discrete units, such as the binary digits 1 and 0. A lighting dimmer switch is an analog device because it is not based on absolute settings. Compare digital (definition 2).
(of a quantity or device) Changing continuously; by contrast a digital quantity or device varies in series a of distinct steps. For example, an analog clock measures time by means of a continuous movement of hands around a dial, whereas a digital clock measures time with a numerical display that changes in a series of discrete steps.

Of or belonging to analogy.

Expressing, composed of, or based on an analogy.

ETYM Latin analogous, Greek, according to a due ratio, proportionate; ana + logos ratio, proportion. Related to Logic.
1. Similar or correspondent in some respects though otherwise dissimilar; SYN. correspondent.
2. (Biology) Corresponding in function but not in evolutionary origin.

(Electronics) Of a circuit or device having an output that is proportional to the input; SYN. analog, linear.

ETYM Cf. French corrélatif.
1. Mutually related; SYN. correlate, correlated.
2. (Grammar) Indicating a reciprocal or complementary relation.

1. Accompanying.
2. Agreeing in amount, magnitude, or degree; SYN. proportionate, in proportion to.
3. Similar especially in position or purpose.