What is the primary purpose of signal averaging in digital signal processing?

The primary purpose of signal averaging in digital signal processing is to enhance the signal-to-noise ratio. Signal averaging works by accumulating multiple instances of a signal over time, which allows the consistent features of the signal to constructively add together, while the random noise components tend to cancel each other out.

This process is particularly useful in applications where the signal is weak or is buried under a substantial amount of noise. By averaging, the true signal characteristics become more prominent, making it easier to analyze and interpret the data.

Other options like increasing data storage or manipulating data do not directly relate to the primary function of signal averaging, which is focused on improving the clarity and quality of the signal. Converting analog signals to digital pertains to a different aspect of digital signal processing, focused more on the initial transformation of signal type rather than enhancing the existing signal's quality.