In the world of data communication, no technique is more widely used than multiplexing. Not only is it crucially important to data communication but it’s also widely used in the world of electronics and computer networks.
Today, we’ll be taking a closer look at what multiplexing is so as to establish its importance.
v What Is Multiplexing?
In its essence, multiplexing is a process that allows multiple analog or digital signals to be merged and transferred over a shared medium. This makes the system more cost-effective and ensures minimum losses of data.
In most circuits, multiplexing is done with the help of efficient electrical components called multiplexers. The technique used to achieve multiplexing depends largely on the type of multiplexer used for the job.
While analog multiplexers perform multiplexing with the help of transistors, relays, or Metal Oxide Semiconductor Field Effect Transistors (MOSFETs), digital multiplexers use a high-speed Boolean logic gate to switch data between different levels.
v Common Examples of Multiplexing:
Believe it or not, the practical applications of multiplexing are all around us. Here are a few devices that you use every day that rely on multiplexers and demultiplexers.
- In the world of electronics, multiplexing allows multiple analog signals to be processed by a single ADC. Think of cable TV and how a single wire can communicate numerous TV channels.
- In the world of data communication, multiplexing allows a switching center to transfer multiple phone calls over one wire. In other words, every time you use your phone to make a phone call, you’re relying on multiplexing without even knowing about it!
v The Importance of Multiplexing:
From the examples mentioned above, it’s clear to see that we’re surrounded by devices that rely on multiplexing. However, that doesn’t explain why this technique is so widely used? Why do all devices that communicate signals, from Cable TV to cell phones, use multiplexing?
Well, the answer to that question is relatively straightforward; economics. As discussed above, multiplexing significantly reduces the number of wires and makes it possible for multiple analog signals to be transferred over a single wire. This increases savings made on copper wire and its insulation as well as the labor charges pertaining to installation and preventive maintenance.
Furthermore, multiplexing also simplifies drive electronics. By using the right multiplexing technique and efficient cell designing, multiplexing can make the life a circuit designer significantly easier and more systematic.
v Where to Buy Multiplexers?
It should be noted that not all multiplexers perform at satisfactory levels as not all multiplexers are created equally.
This is particularly dangerous for high-speed applications as a poor-quality multiplexer will adversely affect the performance of the circuit. Therefore, you must invest in robust and reliable multiplexers that boast the desired high-speed, high-frequency specifications.
If you’re in the market for reliable digital multiplexers and demultiplexers, the ADSANTEC team would love to help. We have a large selection of electronic and electrical solutions that includes the likes of clock multipliers, active phase shifters, error detectors, level convertors, and much more!
So, don’t opt for cheap, unreliable products and buy only the best digital multiplexers today!