Pronunciation: [mˌʌltɪplˈɛksəz] (IPA) 
The word "multiplexors" is spelled with the letter combination "plx" which represents a consonant cluster containing the sounds /p/ and /l/. The "x" represents the sound /ks/. Therefore, the IPA phonetic transcription for the word would be /ˌmʌltiˈplɛksərz/. The plural form of the word "multiplexor" is used in reference to devices that allow for the transmission of multiple signals over a single communication line or channel.
A multiplexer, also known as a "mux," is a fundamental electronic device commonly used in telecommunication and digital systems. It enables the simultaneous transmission of multiple signals over a single transmission channel. The primary function of a multiplexer is to combine several input signals into a single output signal, which can then be transmitted over the shared channel with reduced cost and complexity.
In its basic form, a multiplexer has multiple input lines, usually represented by binary digits, and a single output line. The selection of which input line is active at a given time is determined by an additional set of input lines known as control lines. The control lines act as binary addresses, allowing the multiplexer to route the desired input signal to the output line. The selection process is carried out by internal logic circuits that steer the input signals based on the control inputs.
Multiplexers can operate in various configurations, such as time-division multiplexing (TDM) and frequency-division multiplexing (FDM), depending on the specific application. TDM allows each input signal to be allocated a specific time slot within a predefined time frame, while FDM assigns a unique frequency band to each input signal.
Overall, multiplexers play a crucial role in optimizing the utilization of transmission channels by allowing multiple signals to share the same resource efficiently. They are fundamental components in various systems, including telecommunications networks, data transmission systems, and digital integrated circuits.
The word "multiplexors" is derived from two primary components: "multiplex" and the suffix "-or".
The term "multiplex" originates from the Latin words "multi-" meaning "many" and "plex" meaning "folded" or "twisted". It was first used in English during the 19th century to refer to the process of transmitting multiple signals over a single channel or line. "Multiplex" in this context refers to combining or intertwining several signals into a single transmission.
The suffix "-or" is a common derivational suffix in English that can have various meanings, including "agent" or "doer". It is often used to form nouns that indicate a person or thing performing a particular action or having a particular quality.
Therefore, "multiplexors" refers to devices or components that carry out the action of multiplexing.
