Even in our time of high technology, education and knowledge, not everyone knows what a multiplexer is. By the way, knowledge is not that very necessary, because this device is used in a narrow circle, but understanding this term will not hurt (if only for general development).
So, a multiplexer is called a special device equipped with many inputs - signal and control. The output of this device is only one. It is important that the signal can be transmitted to the output from any of the inputs, for the selection of which a special combination of pulses is used.
In total, there are two types of this device - they distinguish an analog and digital multiplexer. The principle of operation for these types is completely different.
So, in a digital device, logical levels are copied from the selected input to output. This type is very easy to use, but not quite perfect.
But the analog multiplexer is a more complex device. In it, the input and output are connected using electricity, with this, voltage arises, but only weak.
It is impossible not to say that the analog multiplexer, also called a switch, combines two devices at once: this device can perform not only its own function, but also all the actions characteristic of demultiplexers. This makes it much more convenient to use.
As the name implies, the last device is the exact opposite of the first - it is capable of transmitting a signal from the output to one of the inputs. This is possible due to the fact that the analog multiplexer connects them using electricity.
But working with this device is impossible without the help of auxiliary mechanisms. Together with it, the control circuit with address and enable inputs is most often used.
Having figured out what an analog multiplexer is and what it consists of, we can talk about the most important thing - its purpose. This device is used to convert binary code - parallel to serial and vice versa. Simply put, it switches the signals.
This device works quite simply: it independently determines which of the inputs should be connected to the output using the number of the first and binary codes of the second - they must correspond to each other. A scheme with address codes helps a person track the operation of the device.
This is done quite simply, given that any analog multiplexer has the same input designation.
So, for example, if the address input has the code “00”, then the output signal will be equal to that of the input indicated by zero, the code “01” indicates the signal from the first input, and “10” - from the second. The reader can continue on their own.
It remains only to give an example, speaking about the need to use this device in life.
Suppose a subject has four objects transmitting signals, and an existing device can “read” only one of them. In this case, a multiplexer is built into his board, which he chooses the only suitable one.