VIVA Questions: multiplexer

1. What is a multiplexer?
Ans. Multiplexer is the device which has n inputs and only one output. It selects
one of the input and passes to the output.There is one more terminal called as
select input which decides which input terminal is to be selected to send output.

2.What is the function of an enable input on a multiplexer chip?

Ans. To active the entire chip.

3. What is a demultiplexer?
A demultiplexer sends a single input to multiple outputs, depending on the
select lines. For one input, the demultiplexer gives several outputs. It is also
called a data distributor.
4. Give the applications of mux and demux

Applications of Multiplexer

• Communication System
• Telephone Network
• Computer Memory
• Transmission from the Computer System of a Satellite

Applications of Demultiplexer

• Communication System
 • ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit)
• Serial to Parallel Converter
5. What is an encoder and a decoder?

encoder
▪ It is a combinational circuit which converts binary information in the form
of a 2N input lines into N output lines, which represent N bit code for the
input.
Decoder
▪ It works as an inverse of an encoder.
▪ It is a combinational circuit which converts n input lines into 2n output
lines.

6. Compare mux and encoder

ENCODER MULTIPLEXER

The encoder is a combinational circuit The multiplexer is a combinational circuit

element that encodes a set of binary codes element that channels one of its many
into another set of binary codes containing a inputs to its only output depending on the
smaller number of bits. selection inputs.

An encoder has n number of outputs if it A multiplexer has only one output pin
has 2n number of input pins. irrespective of the number of input pins.

A multiplexer has multiple numbers of input

If an encoder has 2n number of input pins
pins and the number of input pins is given
then it will have n number of output pins.
by 2n and it has only 1 output.

The encoder does not have any selection If a multiplexer has 2n number of input pins
input lines. then it will have n number of selection lines.
7. Compare demux and decoder

DECODER DEMULTIPLEXER

A decoder decodes an encrypted input A demultiplexer routes an input signal

signal to multiple output signals from one to multiple output signals.
format to another format.

A decoder has input lines and a maximum A demultiplexer has single input,
of {2} ^ {n} output lines. selection lines and maximum of {2} ^
{n} outputs.

Decoder's inverse is Encoder. Demultiplexer's inverse is Multiplexer.

Decoders are used to detect bits, encoding Demultiplexers are used in switching,
of data. data distribution.

Decoders have no select lines. Demultiplexers contain select lines.

Decoders are heavily used in networking Demultiplexers are employed in

applications. communication systems.