Types of Communication Channels-
In computer networking, there are 3 types of communication channels-
- Simplex channel
- Half duplex channel
- Full duplex channel
1. Simplex Channel-
- A simplex communication channel can send the signals only in one direction.
- Thus, entire bandwidth of the channel can be used during the transmission.
Example-
Radio station
- Radio station is a good example of a simplex communication channel.
- A radio station always sends signals to its audience.
- It never receives signals from the audience.
2. Half Duplex Channel-
- A half duplex communication channel can send signals in both the directions but in only one direction at a time.
- It may be considered as a simplex communication channel whose transmission direction can be switched.
Example-
Walkie-Talkie
- Walkie-Talkie is a good example of a half duplex channel.
- Walkie-talkie has a push-to-talk button.
- This button is used to turn on the transmitter but turn off the receiver.
- When the button is pressed, transmitter can not hear the receiver but receiver can hear the transmitter.
3. Full Duplex Channel-
- A full duplex communication channel can send signals in both the directions at the same time.
- Full duplex communication channels greatly increases the efficiency of communication.
Example-
Telephone
- Telephone is a good example of a full duplex channel.
- Both the persons can speak as well as hear each other at the same time.
Channel Capacity-
The total number of bits a channel can hold is called as its capacity.
| Capacity of a half duplex channel
= Bandwidth x Propagation delay |
| Capacity of a full duplex channel
= 2 x Capacity of a half duplex channel = 2 x Bandwidth x Propagation delay |
To gain better understanding about communication channels in networking,
Next Article- Stop and Wait Protocol
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