Difference between Multiplexer and Demultiplexer

In this article, we will go through the Difference between Multiplexer and Demultiplexer, First we will start our article with the definition of the multiplexer and demultiplexer in brief with their block diagram, and then we will go through the differences between Multiplexer and Demultiplexer in detail, At last we will conclude our article with some FAQs.

Table of Content

  • Multiplexer
  • Demultiplexer
  • Difference Between of Multiplexer and Demultiplexer
  • Conclusion
  • FAQs

What is a Multiplexer?

A multiplexer is a data selector which takes several inputs and gives a single output. In multiplexer, we have 2n Input lines and 1 output lines where n is the number of selection lines.

Given Below is the Block Diagram of the Multiplexer, It will have 2n Input lines and will select output based on the Select line.

What is Demultiplexer ?

Demultiplexer is a data distributor which takes a single input and gives several outputs. In demultiplexer we have 1 input and 2n output lines where n is the selection line.

Given below is the block diagram of the Demultiplexer, It will have one Input line and will give 2n output lines.

Difference Between of Multiplexer and Demultiplexer

Given Below is the Table for the Difference between Multiplexer and Demultiplexer

Multiplexer Demultiplexer
Multiplexer processes the digital information from various sources into a single source. Demultiplexer receives digital information from a single source and converts it into several sources
It is known as Data Selector It is known as Data Distributor
Multiplexer is a digital switch Demultiplexer is a digital circuit
It follows combinational logic type It also follows combinational logic type
It has 2n input data lines It has single input line
It has a single output data line It has 2n output data lines
It works on many to one operational principle It works on one to many operational principle
In time division Multiplexing, multiplexer is used at the transmitter end In time division Multiplexing, demultiplexer is used at the receiver end

Conclusion

In this Article we have gone though multiplexer and demultiplexer with their block diagram in brief, Also we have gone through the major difference between multiplexer and demultiplexer in detail.

Difference between Multiplexer and Demultiplexer – FAQs

What is the Importance of the selection lines in both multiplexers and demultiplexer?

The selection lines are used to determine which input or output will be active during that time. By using these selection lines the specific line can be routed.

Can a multiplexer and a demultiplexer be used together in a digital communication system?

Yes both of them can be used together in digital communication systems, the Multiplexer can be used to multiplex multiple data streams into a single channel and the demultiplexer is used at the receiving end to extract the individual data streams.

How do the number of input and output lines differ between a multiplexer and a demultiplexer?

The Multiplexer has 2n Inputs line and a single output line where as the Demultiplexer has opposite configuration.