Assignment
Topic: Transmission Modes – Asynchronous and Synchronous
Transmission
Introduction
In computer networks and digital communication, data transmission refers to the process of
sending digital or analog data from one point to another (through a medium such as cables,
wireless signals, or optical fibers). Transmission of data can take place in different modes,
depending on how the synchronization between the sender and the receiver is achieved. Two
widely used modes are Asynchronous Transmission and Synchronous Transmission. Both
modes have their own rules, advantages, and limitations (depending on the requirement of speed,
accuracy, and cost). Understanding these modes is crucial in the study of data communication and
networking.
Asynchronous Transmission
Definition
Asynchronous transmission is a communication method in which data is sent one byte or
character at a time (with start and stop bits used for synchronization). It does not require a clock
signal to be shared between the sender and receiver.
How It Works
- Each character is sent with a start bit and a stop bit.
- The receiver recognizes each byte individually.
- Small gaps can exist between characters (making it flexible but slower).
Example
When typing on a keyboard, each key you press is transmitted asynchronously.
Advantages:
1. Simple and cost-effective (requires less hardware).
2. Works efficiently for low-speed transmission.
3. Flexible (gaps between characters are allowed).
Disadvantages:
1. Extra bits (start/stop) increase overhead.
2. Less efficient for high-volume transmission.
3. Slower than synchronous transmission.
Real-World Uses: Keyboard communication, low-speed modems, serial communication (RS-232).
Synchronous Transmission
Definition
Synchronous transmission is a method in which data is sent in continuous streams (blocks or
frames), with synchronization maintained using a common clock signal.
How It Works
- Data is grouped into blocks or frames.
- A synchronization signal is sent before the transmission begins.
- Once synchronized, large amounts of data are transmitted without extra start/stop bits.
Example
Video streaming and file transfers over the internet use synchronous transmission.
Advantages:
1. High efficiency (no need for start/stop bits per character).
2. Suitable for large data transfers.
3. Faster and more reliable.
Disadvantages:
1. More complex and expensive (needs synchronization).
2. Requires precise timing.
3. Errors in synchronization affect entire blocks.
Real-World Uses: Internet communication, video/audio streaming, high-speed broadband.
Comparison Between Asynchronous and Synchronous
Transmission
Feature Asynchronous Transmission Synchronous Transmission
Synchronization Start/stop bits per character Common clock signal
Speed Slower (extra overhead) Faster (efficient for large data)
Complexity Simple and cheap Complex and expensive
Data Transmission Unit One character at a time Blocks or frames
Suitable For Low-speed, short communication High-speed, long communication
Conclusion
Both asynchronous and synchronous transmission modes are important in data communication.
Asynchronous transmission is simple and ideal for small data transfers (such as keyboard input). In
contrast, synchronous transmission is faster, more efficient, and suitable for large data transfers
(such as internet communication and video streaming).
The choice between the two depends on communication needs (speed, cost, complexity, and
reliability).
