What is multiplexing?

Multiplexing:

Multiplexing is the process of combining multiple signals into one signal, over a shared medium. On the other hand, demultiplexing is the process of converting one signal into multiple signals.

MUX:

The device which converts multiple signals into a single signal is called mux.

DEMUX:

The device which converts a single signal into multiple signals is called demux.

Why we use multiplexing?

• The transmission medium is used to send the signal from sender to receiver. The medium can only have one signal at a time.
• If there are multiple signals to share one medium, then the medium must be divided in such a way that each signal is given some portion of the available bandwidth. For example: If there are 10 signals and bandwidth of medium is100 units, then the 10 unit is shared by each signal.
• When multiple signals share the common medium, there is a possibility of collision. Multiplexing concept is used to avoid such collision.
• Transmission services are very expensive.