Asynchronous transmission definition for electronic data interchange usage
Asynchronous transmission in electronic data interchange (EDI) is a method of sending and receiving digital data where each character or data byte is individually transmitted and synchronized by the use of start and stop bits. In asynchronous transmission, data is sent in a non-continuous, irregular manner, without a fixed time interval between characters.
Each data byte is framed by start and stop bits. These bits indicate the beginning and end of the data byte, allowing the receiving system to identify and separate individual characters. Unlike synchronous transmission, which relies on a constant clock signal for data synchronization, asynchronous transmission does not require a fixed timing mechanism. Instead, it relies on the start and stop bits to synchronize the data at the receiver’s end.
Asynchronous transmission can accommodate variable data rates, making it suitable for a wide range of applications. It allows for flexibility in data transfer speed. Asynchronous transmission is commonly used in serial communication interfaces, such as RS-232, RS-485, and UART (Universal Asynchronous Receiver/Transmitter).
This method of transmission is prevalent in many EDI systems and is often employed when real-time data transfer or synchronization is not critical, making it a flexible and reliable choice for various electronic data interchange applications.
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