Data Communication Model
Data Communication is the process of transferring data between two or more devices, often using a
transmission medium. The main components are:
1. Sender: The device that sends the data, like a computer or mobile phone.
2. Receiver: The device that receives the data, like another computer or a server.
3. Transmission Medium: The physical path through which the data travels (e.g., cables, fiber optics,
or wireless signals).
4. Message: The actual data being transferred.
5. Protocol: A set of rules that govern the data transmission, ensuring proper data formatting, error
handling, and synchronization.
Data vs Information
- Data: Raw, unprocessed facts and figures without context (e.g., 101101, "25.6", "Alice").
- Information: Processed, organized, and meaningful data (e.g., "Alice's score is 25.6").
Data Transmission
1. Digital Transmission:
- Transmits data in binary form (0s and 1s).
- Requires a digital medium.
- Advantages: High accuracy, noise resistance, and efficient use of bandwidth.
- Examples: Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Fiber Optics.
2. Analog Transmission:
- Transmits data as continuous waves.
- Commonly used for audio and video signals.
- Advantages: Simple to implement, long-distance coverage.
- Examples: AM/FM radio, traditional telephony.
Transmission Types
1. Asynchronous Transmission:
- Data is sent one byte at a time, with a start and stop bit for each byte.
- No need for clock synchronization.
- Efficient for low-speed communication.
- Examples: Serial communication, old dial-up modems.
2. Synchronous Transmission:
- Data is sent in continuous blocks or frames.
- Requires synchronization between sender and receiver.
- High speed and efficiency.
- Examples: Ethernet, high-speed WAN connections.
Transmission Modes
1. Simplex:
- Data flows in only one direction.
- Example: Television broadcast.
2. Half Duplex:
- Data flows in both directions, but one at a time.
- Example: Walkie-talkies, CB radios.
3. Full Duplex:
- Data flows simultaneously in both directions.
- Example: Telephone networks, modern Ethernet connections.