Serial and Parallel

Serial and Parallel

1. Serial

   • most data transmissions
   • bits are sent one at a time across one medium
     • received in the same order as sent
   • most reliable
   • used for long distance
   • advantages
     • more reliable
   • disadvantages
     • slower

2. Parallel

   • some links use multiple wires
     • all bits can be sent at once
     • all bits arrive at once
   • use several wires at the same time
   • several bits are sent at same time
   • Advantages
     • Quicker
   • Disadvantages
     • more chance of error
     • long distances mean more chances of error
   • used for short distances