PARALLEL TRANSMISSION Meaning and
Definition
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Parallel transmission is a method utilized in data communication whereby multiple bits of data are transmitted simultaneously over multiple parallel channels. It involves the transmission of data bits in parallel, meaning that each bit of information is sent simultaneously on separate wires or lines. This differs from serial transmission, where data is sent one bit at a time on a single line.
In parallel transmission, each bit is assigned its own dedicated transmission line, allowing for faster data transfer compared to serial transmission. By using multiple lines, parallel transmission can transmit multiple bits at once, resulting in increased bandwidth and faster communication speeds. This method is commonly used in computer buses, such as the system bus, where various components of a computer system need to communicate with each other.
However, parallel transmission does require a greater number of physical connections and transmission lines, which can make it more complex to implement and increase the chances of signal interference or noise. Additionally, as the number of parallel lines increases, the costs and complexities associated with synchronization and maintaining signal integrity also grow. These factors have made parallel transmission less commonly used than serial transmission, especially in long-distance communication where serial transmission is more suitable due to its simplicity and lower susceptibility to signal degradation.
Etymology of PARALLEL TRANSMISSION
The word "parallel" comes from the Latin word "parallelos" meaning "having parallel lines". It entered English through the Middle French word "parallèle", which had a similar meaning.
The word "transmission" comes from the Latin word "transmissio", derived from the verb "transmittere", meaning "to send across". It was formed by combining the prefix "trans-", meaning "across", and the verb "mittere", meaning "to send".
When these two words are combined, "parallel transmission" refers to the process of sending data simultaneously through multiple channels or wires. The term is commonly used in the field of computer science and data communication to describe the simultaneous transfer of data over multiple parallel connections.
