time-division multiplexing (′tīm di¦vizh·ən ′məl·tə′pleks·iŋ)

(computer science) The interleaving of bits or characters in time to compensate for the
slowness of input devices as compared to data transmission lines.
(communications) A process for transmitting two or more signals over a common path by
using successive time intervals for different signals. Also known as time multiplexing.
Abbreviated TDM.

TDM network

A network that transmits data in dedicated end-to-end circuits comprising 64 Kbps digital
channels. TDM networks evolved from the analog voice networks of the telephone
companies. They are widely used for digitized voice and data in the form of digital signal
(DS) circuits made up of T1, E1 and OC-1 lines and multiples thereof (see DS). See
TDM. Contrast with packet network.

TDM

(Time Division Multiplexing) A technology that transmits multiple signals

simultaneously over a single transmission path. Each lower-speed signal is time sliced
into one high-speed transmission. In the simplest example, three incoming 1,000 bps
signals (A, B and C) can be interleaved into one outgoing 3,000 bps signal as
ABCABCABCABC. The receiving end divides the single stream back into its original
signals.

TDM enabled the telephone companies to migrate from analog to digital on all their long
distance trunks, and later to the local loops. TDM is widely used to combine multiple 64
Kbps streams into the 1.544 Mbps capacity of a T1 channel. For example, a channel bank
converts 24 analog voice conversations into digital and then multiplexes them via TDM
onto the T1. Contrast with FDM. See TDMA, circuit switching, channel bank and DS.
 From FDM to TDM to Packet Switching
TDM has replaced FDM (frequency division
multiplexing) for telco backbone networks, but packet
switching is expected to become the norm for voice and
data in the 21st century.