GATE CSE IT » Difference Between Multiplexer and Demultiplexer

Difference Between Multiplexer and Demultiplexer

If you want to learn about Multiplexers and Demultiplexers and how they differ, this guide will provide you an overview with the major difference between the two.

Table of Contents

  1. Introduction
  2. What is a Multiplexer?
  3. What is a Demultiplexer?
  4. The Key Difference Between Multiplexer & Demultiplexer

Introduction

Multiplexers and Demultiplexers are distinguished by their ability to accept multiple and single input, respectively. Multiplexers, also known as MUX, can accept multiple inputs and produce a single output. Demultiplexer, also known as DEMUX, reverses the operation of the MUX. It operates on a single input and transmits data to multiple outputs.

The Multiplexer is a data selector, thus providing a single output for multiple inputs. Demultiplexer, on the other hand, acts as a data distributor. It generates multiple outputs from a single input. We’ll be discussing some of the major differences between MUX and DEMUX, but first, let’s take a look at the various types of Multiplexers and Demultiplexers.

What is a Multiplexer?

A Multiplexer, also referred to as MUX, is a combinatorial circuit element that we use to select one of several inputs for its sole output based on the input provided to the selection line. The Multiplexer functions as an electronic switch. It can be used to change the output from one input to another depending on the value of inputs to the selection. 

Multiplexer Types

There are four types of Multiplexers:

  • 2-1 Multiplexer
  • 4-1 Multiplexer
  • 8-1 Multiplexer
  • 16-1 Multiplexer

What is a Demultiplexer?

Demultiplexer, also called DeMUX, is a circuit element used to direct the input into one of the various outputs that are dependent on the inputs from those selection lines. DeMUX is an allocator. It routes its input to one of its numerous outputs based on the values in the selected line.

Types of Demultiplexer

There are four types of Demultiplexers

  • 1-2 Demultiplexer
  • 1-4 Demultiplexer
  • 1-8 Demultiplexer
  • 1-16 Demultiplexer

The Key Difference Between Multiplexer and Demultiplexer

Below are the key differences between Demultiplexer and Multiplexer:

  • Combinational logic circuits such as Multiplexers or Demultiplexers can be used in communication systems. However, their functions are exactly opposite each other since one works with multiple inputs while the other only works with input.
  • Multiplexers are used to convert multiple analogue or digital signals into one o/p signal using different control lines. This formula can be used to determine the control lines: 2n=r, where ‘n’ is the number of selection lines, and ‘r’ is the number of i/p signals.
  • Multiplexer (or Mux) is an N-1-to-1 device. A Demultiplexer, on the other hand, is a 1-to-1 device.
  • MUX uses parallel to serial data conversion and is easy to understand as it uses different inputs. DEMUX, however, works in the opposite direction to MUX. It is a parallel to serial conversion. In this way, you can achieve many outputs.
  • Both the Demux and Mux are used to transmit data over a network with less bandwidth. The Multiplexer is used at one end, while the Demux is at the other.
  • The Demultiplexer converts one i/p signal into several. You can determine the number of control signals by using the same formula as MUX.
  • Multiplexers combine multiple inputs into one data stream. This is their basic function. A Demultiplexer splits the single data stream into multiple signals. On the receiving side of the Multiplexer
  • Multiplexers select one of the input signals and transmit it to a single output. A decoder can accept “n” binary codes and convert them into an output signal. Multiplexers transmit data and signals.
  • A Demultiplexer connects a single source to multiple destinations. Demultiplexer’s main use is in communication systems, where Multiplexers are usable. Bidirectional communication systems are those that work in both directions (transmitting/receiving signal).
  • Multiplexing allows signals to be combined and transmitted over one medium to reduce costs and maximise efficiency.

Because of the system’s bidirectional nature, both Demultiplexers and Multiplexers are vital. Both devices perform opposite operations. The main difference between Multiplexer and Demultiplexer comes from their input and outgoing lines.

A Multiplexer may have many input lines and only one output line. On the other hand, a Demultiplexer has many input lines but only one output line.

These are the basics of Multiplexers and Demultiplexers. We hope you have learned some basic concepts by looking at the logic circuits and their applications.