Multiplexing - Dan M

What is it?
The easiest way of explaining/defining Multiplexing is the communication of data where packets from several channels combine to into a single channel, making it a single medium.The main reason this method is used is because it allows you to use one route to send a vast range of data rather than having to open up multiple routes.

How does it work?
An MUX (or Multiplexer) brings all of the signals together and then sends them over a single line to a chosen destination. Once it reaches the nodes a device called a DEMUX (or Demultiplexer) separates the signals back into separate forms accessible by the nodes.

Time Division Multiplexing
Using "TDM" each user/node is given a time slot at which time their data will be sent. When this designated time is up then it checks the next user's data will be checked with any data sent there.

Advantages
+ Allows data from different mediums to be sent over one channel.

+ Saves time and money since only one channel is needed to be set up and configured.

+ You can send different types of data over a long distance with a single channel.

Disadvantages
- Can be extremely inefficient as there can be time slots where no data is being sent at all if it is empty.

Statistical Time Division Multiplexing
Works similarly to "TDM" however when a data packet is needed to be sent somewhere a request is sent to allow data transmission to begin as soon as a free slot opens up. This is better than "TDM" as it means the data does not have to wait for its node's time slot, and it also means that it is more efficient as there will be no empty time slots if data is not being sent.