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Multiplexing is a technique used to combine multiple signals or data streams into one single signal or data channel. The goal is to send several pieces of information at the same time over a shared communication medium, like a wire, fiber-optic cable, or radio frequency. This helps make better use of available resources, such as bandwidth.
There are different types of multiplexing, depending on how the signals are combined:
Multiplexing is crucial in communication systems because it increases efficiency and optimizes the use of available resources.
There are different types of multiplexing, depending on how the signals are combined:
- Time Division Multiplexing (TDM): In TDM, multiple signals share the same transmission channel but are sent at different times. Each signal is assigned a specific time slot in which it can be sent, so they don’t overlap. It’s like taking turns talking on the same phone line.
- Frequency Division Multiplexing (FDM): In FDM, the available bandwidth is divided into smaller frequency bands, with each signal being transmitted on its own frequency band. It’s like multiple radio stations broadcasting on different frequencies but using the same airwaves.
- Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM): This is similar to FDM but is used in optical fiber communications. It divides the light spectrum into different wavelengths (or channels), allowing multiple data streams to be transmitted simultaneously over the same fiber.
- Code Division Multiplexing (CDM): In CDM, each signal is assigned a unique code, and multiple signals are sent simultaneously on the same frequency. The receiver uses the unique code to extract the correct signal. This is often used in cellular networks.
Multiplexing is crucial in communication systems because it increases efficiency and optimizes the use of available resources.