data multiplexer
Definition
- Noun:
- A device that combines multiple data signals into one: A data multiplexer is a hardware or software component that allows two or more separate data streams to be transmitted simultaneously over a single shared communication channel or transmission medium.
- A selector for data sources: It functions by allocating the shared resource (like a cable or frequency band) among the different input sources, enabling efficient use of bandwidth.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- The network engineer installed a data multiplexer to combine the signals from several computers onto one line.
- A data multiplexer is essential in telecommunications for maximizing the capacity of a transmission link.
Advanced Usage
- Statistical Multiplexing: A more advanced form where the data multiplexer dynamically allocates bandwidth based on the current demand of each data source, rather than using fixed time slots.
- Statistical data multiplexers are more efficient for bursty traffic like internet data packets.
Variants and Related Words
- Multiplexer (MUX) (n): The general term for any device that combines multiple signals. A data multiplexer is a specific type of multiplexer for digital data.
- Demultiplexer (DEMUX) (n): The complementary device that separates the combined signal back into the original individual streams at the receiving end.
- Time-Division Multiplexing (TDM): A common method used by data multiplexers where each input source is given a specific, recurring time slot on the shared channel.
Synonyms
- Combiner: A general term for a device that merges signals.
- Channel aggregator: Emphasizes the function of bringing multiple channels together.
Related Phrases
- To multiplex data: The action performed by a data multiplexer.
- The system is designed to multiplex data from various sensors.
Related Idioms
(This technical term is not commonly used in idiomatic expressions.)
Noun
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a multiplexer that permits two or more data sources to share a common transmission medium
