Why Multiplexing?
Multiplexing is the sharing of a medium or bandwidth. It is the process in which multiple signals coming from multiple sources are combined and transmitted over a single communication/physical line. Multiplexing in computer networks is done using a device Multiplexer called MUX that takes ‘n’ input lines to generate a single output line. On the other hand, there is a device called DEMUX(Demultiplexer) that takes a single input line and generates ‘n’ output lines.
The ‘n’ input lines shown above are transmitted via a multiplexer and it combines the signals to form a composite signal. Now, these signals are passed through DEMUX and it transfers those signals to their respective destinations.
Multiplexing (Channel Sharing) in Computer Network
Multiplexing means multiple sources but one link. An alternative approach is a Direct point-to-point connection, but it has several problems as it requires an I/O port for each device, a need line for each device, and also a large amount of wiring needed if on different floors. Instead, if we use a multiplexer approach then all devices are connected to MUX and one line to the host, the link carries multiple channels of information and several lines equal to the number of lines out.
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