Timing Skew in Parallel Communication

Parallel communication is a mode of communication in which multiple bits of data are transmitted simultaneously over multiple wires or channels. It is commonly used in computer systems to transfer large amounts of data quickly between devices. However, the parallel mode of communication is not suitable for long distances because of timing skew.

Timing skew refers to the difference in arrival times of the bits in a parallel data stream. In a parallel communication system, each bit of data is transmitted over a separate wire or channel. However, due to differences in wire lengths, propagation delays, and other factors, the bits may arrive at the receiver at different times.

This can cause errors in the data transmission, as the receiver may not be able to distinguish between the bits that arrive at different times. As the distance between the transmitting and receiving devices increases, the timing skew becomes more significant and can lead to data corruption or loss.

In contrast, serial communication is a mode of communication in which data is transmitted one bit at a time over a single wire or channel. This mode of communication is more suitable for long distances because it is less affected by timing skew. However, it is also slower than parallel communication for transferring large amounts of data.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while parallel communication is a fast and efficient mode of communication for short distances, it is not suitable for long distances because of timing skew. Serial communication is a better option for long distances, but it is slower than parallel communication for transferring large amounts of data. Therefore, the choice of communication mode depends on the specific requirements of the system.