Parallel vs. Serial Data Transmission
Parallel Data Transmission
- Transmits multiple bits of data simultaneously across a set of parallel channels.
- Typically transmits 16 to 32 bits at a time.
- Very fast but is best suited for short distances due to signal degradation over longer distances.
- Example: The internal buses of a processor use parallel channels for faster data transfer within the system.
Serial Data Transmission
- Sends data one bit at a time over a single channel or wire.
- Slower compared to parallel transmission but more suitable for long distances as signal degradation is less of an issue.
- When data from a serial device needs to be processed by the CPU, it first passes through an interface that buffers and converts it into parallel form for compatibility with the processor.
Key Points:
- Parallel: Faster, for short distances, used internally in processors.
- Serial: Slower, for longer distances, needs conversion when interacting with parallel-based systems.