Aditta Chowdhury

Dept. of EEE, CUET

Multiplexing
Multiplexing
Multiplexing is a process where multiple signals are combined into one
signal over a shared medium. This process divides a communication
channel into multiple logical channels. Each one is allotted for a
different message signal or data stream to be transferred. The hardware
that is used for multiplexing is called as a multiplexer, which combines
n number of input lines for generating a single output line. It follows
many-to-one where there are n input lines and one output line.
Application of Multiplexing
Multiplexing is used for a variety of purposes in data communications to enhance the
efficiency and capacity of networks. Here are some of the main uses:
• Efficient Utilization of Resources: Multiplexing allows multiple signals to share the
same communication channel, making the most of the available bandwidth. This is
especially important in environments where bandwidth is limited.
• Telecommunications: In telephone networks, multiplexing enables the simultaneous
transmission of multiple telephone calls over a single line, enhancing the capacity of
the network.
• Internet and Data Networks: Multiplexing is used in internet communications to
transmit data from multiple users over a single network line, improving the efficiency
and speed of data transfer.
• Satellite Communications: Multiplexing helps in efficiently utilizing the available
bandwidth on satellite transponders, allowing multiple signals to be transmitted and
received simultaneously.
Types
There are two main types of multiplexers including analog and digital which
are further subdivided.
1. Analog Multiplexing
It is used for telecommunication that involves signals which are analog in
nature. These are analog signals that are multiplexed according to Frequency
Division Multiplexing (FDM) or Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM).
2. Digital Multiplexing
In computer networking, digital multiplexing helps organizations in sending
multiple signals over a single channel. The available data is in form of
packets and frames that are discrete.
Frequency division multiplexing (FDM)
• Frequency division multiplexing is defined as a type of multiplexing
where the bandwidth of a single physical medium is divided into a
number of smaller, independent frequency channels.
Frequency division multiplexing (FDM)
• Frequency Division Multiplexing is used in radio and television transmission.
• In FDM, we can observe a lot of inter-channel cross-talk, due to the fact that in
this type of multiplexing the bandwidth is divided into frequency channels. In
order to prevent the inter-channel cross talk, unused strips of bandwidth must be
placed between each channel. These unused strips between each channel are
known as guard bands.
Time division multiplexing (TDM)
• Time-division multiplexing is defined as a type of multiplexing wherein FDM,
instead of sharing a portion of the bandwidth in the form of channels, in TDM,
time is shared. Each connection occupies a portion of time in the link.
• In Time Division Multiplexing, all signals operate with the same frequency
(bandwidth) at different times.
• There are two types of Time Division Multiplexing : Synchronous Time Division
Multiplexing & Statistical (or Asynchronous) Time Division Multiplexing
Synchronous TDM
Synchronous TDM is a type of Time Division Multiplexing where the
input frame already has a slot in the output frame. Time slots are
grouped into frames. One frame consists of one cycle of time
slots. Synchronous TDM is not efficient because if the input frame has
no data to send, a slot remains empty in the output frame. In
synchronous TDM, we need to mention the synchronous bit at the
beginning of each frame.
Statistical TDM
• Statistical TDM is a type of Time Division Multiplexing where the output
frame collects data from the input frame till it is full, not leaving an empty
slot like in Synchronous TDM. In statistical TDM, we need to include the
address of each particular data in the slot that is being sent to the output
frame. Statistical TDM is a more efficient type of time-division
multiplexing as the channel capacity is fully utilized and improves
the bandwidth efficiency.
Wavelength division multiplexing (WDM)
• Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM) is a multiplexing technology used to increase the
capacity of optical fiber by transmitting multiple optical signals simultaneously over a single
optical fiber, each with a different wavelength. Each signal is carried on a different wavelength of
light, and the resulting signals are combined onto a single optical fiber for transmission. At the
receiving end, the signals are separated by their wavelengths, demultiplexed and routed to their
respective destinations.
• WDM has several advantages over other multiplexing technologies such as Time Division
Multiplexing (TDM). WDM allows for higher data rates and capacity, lower power consumption,
and reduced equipment complexity. WDM is also flexible, allowing for easy upgrades and
expansions to existing networks.
Code division multiplexing (CDM)
• Code division multiplexing (CDM) is a technique used in telecommunications to allow
multiple users to transmit data simultaneously over a single communication channel. In
CDM, each user is assigned a unique code that is used to modulate their signal. The
modulated signals are then combined and transmitted over the same channel. At the
receiving end, each user’s signal is demodulated using their unique code to retrieve their
original data.
• In CDM, each user is assigned a unique spreading code that is used to spread the data
signal. This spreading code is typically a binary sequence that is much longer than the
original data signal. The spreading code is multiplied with the data signal to generate a
spread spectrum signal that has a much wider bandwidth than the original data signal. The
spread spectrum signals of all users are then combined and transmitted over the same
channel.
• At the receiving end, the received signal is multiplied with the same spreading code used
at the transmitting end to dispread the signal. The resulting dispread signal is then
demodulated to retrieve the original data signal. Because each user’s data signal is spread
using a unique code, it is possible to separate the signals of different users even though
they are transmitted over the same channel.
Advantages of Multiplexing
• Efficient Use of Bandwidth: You can send more than one signal over a
single channel. This way, you can use the channel’s capacity more
efficiently.
• Increased Data Transmission: Multiplexing can significantly boost the
amount of data that can be sent over a network simultaneously, enhancing
overall transmission capacity.
• Scalability: Multiplexing allows networks to easily expand and
accommodate more data streams without requiring significant changes to
the existing infrastructure.
• Flexibility: Different types of multiplexing (TDM, FDM, WDM, CDM) can
be used based on the specific needs and characteristics of the
communication system, providing flexibility in network design.
Disadvantages of Multiplexing
• Synchronization Issues: Ensuring that multiple data streams remain
properly synchronized can be challenging, leading to potential data loss or
errors if not managed correctly.
• Latency: Combining multiple signals into one can introduce delays, as each
data stream needs to be processed, synchronized, and demultiplexed at the
receiving end.
• Signal Degradation: Over long distances, multiplexed signals can
experience degradation and interference, requiring additional measures such
as signal boosters or repeaters to maintain quality.
• Resource Management: Allocating and managing resources for
multiplexing can be complicated, requiring careful planning and real-time
adjustments to avoid congestion and ensure efficient operation.