Delta modulation is a method of single‐bit‐per‐sample analog‐to‐digital conversion utilizing feedback around a hard limiter. The digital patterns produced by a delta modulator can be used for transient detection. The results of investigating the value of delta modulation for transient detection are discussed. Both theoretical results and data from experiments by computer simulation are presented. Limited comparison is made with methods based on measuring energy differences. It is assumed that the only information available concerning the transients are nominal ranges for frequency band, duration, and rise and fall times. The waveforms are unknown.