Mux: meaning, definitions and examples
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mux
[ mÊŒks ]
technology term
A multiplexer (mux) is a device that combines multiple input signals into a single output signal. This process allows for efficient data management and transmission in systems such as communications. Muxes are commonly used in digital circuits to help maintain signal integrity and reduce the number of connections.
Synonyms
data selector, multiplexer, signal selector.
Examples of usage
- The mux allows for multiple audio sources to be routed through a single output.
- Using a mux, we can enhance the performance of our data transmission.
- In the circuit, the mux selected which signal to process based on the control inputs.
Etymology
The term 'multiplexer' is derived from the combination of the words 'multiple' and 'plex' from the Latin 'plexus,' meaning 'to weave or braid.' The concept originated in telecommunications in the 1920s when engineers sought methods to improve the efficiency of telephone networks. As technology progressed, the term evolved to encompass various forms of signal processing and data management in electronics. Muxes enable the sharing of resources in circuits, allowing multiple signals to utilize a single output channel without interference. This innovation has been crucial in the development of modern communication systems, including data transmission and audio-video systems. As digital technology advanced, the application of muxes expanded, leading to their essential role in computer architecture and signal processing.