multiplexed [Neurosurgery Wiki]

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Multiplexed refers to a technique or system that allows multiple signals, data streams, or processes to be combined, transmitted, or processed simultaneously within a single system or channel. The term "multiplex" is derived from "multiple" and "plexus," meaning many intertwined or interwoven elements. Here are some common applications and contexts in which multiplexing is used:

Communication Systems:

Frequency Division Multiplexing (FDM): In telecommunications, FDM is a method that combines multiple analog signals by assigning each signal a different frequency range within the available bandwidth. It is commonly used in radio and television broadcasting.

Time Division Multiplexing (TDM): TDM divides a communication channel into time slots, with each slot assigned to a different source or signal. This method is often used in digital communication networks, including telephone systems.

Code Division Multiplexing (CDM): CDM is a technique in which multiple signals are transmitted simultaneously by encoding them with unique codes. It is a key component of CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access) cellular networks.

Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM): WDM is used in fiber-optic communication systems to combine multiple optical signals, each with a different wavelength, onto a single optical fiber.

Data Storage:

Multiplexed Data Storage: In optical and magnetic data storage systems (e.g., DVDs, hard drives), multiplexing techniques are employed to store and retrieve multiple data streams or tracks on a single storage medium.
Biotechnology and Molecular Biology:

Multiplex PCR: Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) can be multiplexed to simultaneously amplify multiple DNA sequences in a single reaction, allowing for efficient genetic testing and diagnostics.

Multiplexed Assays: In various biological assays (e.g., ELISA, microarrays), multiple analytes or biomarkers can be detected and quantified simultaneously within the same sample, improving efficiency and reducing sample requirements.

Sensors and Instrumentation:

Multiplexed Sensors: In sensor technology, multiplexing allows multiple sensors to share a common measurement or data acquisition system, enabling the simultaneous monitoring of different parameters.
Imaging and Spectroscopy:

Multiplexed Imaging: In medical imaging and remote sensing, multiplexing techniques can be used to capture multiple images or spectral bands simultaneously, providing more comprehensive data.
Multiplexed Analysis:

Multiplexed Data Analysis: In data analysis and statistics, multiplexing refers to the simultaneous analysis of multiple datasets, often to identify correlations or patterns.
Microelectronics:

Multiplexed Electronics: In microelectronic circuits, multiplexing can be used to route and process signals from multiple sources or sensors.
The primary goal of multiplexing is to increase efficiency, save resources (e.g., time, bandwidth, or sample volume), and enable the simultaneous handling of multiple inputs or data streams within a single system or process. It is a fundamental concept across various fields, enabling complex and efficient systems and applications.