Multiplexing was Does Handling Matter

Basically, it means sending more than one signal down one circuit. The most common and simple example you'll find is an FM stereo radio signal. Left and right are transmitted on the same frequency - the receiver separates them for connection to your analogue amplifier. So it's not exactly new technology.

On a car, as you increase the number of electrical toys, you also have to increase the wiring without multiplexing. This is heavy and expensive. Simpler to have just (basically) a single power feed round the car for everything, and use a 'switch' controlled by a multiplex circuit locally for the accessory, with that 'switch' controlled by the dash, etc, one. So a bit like a relay. The multiplex 'wire' can handle many many such control circuits and doesn't need to be thick and heavy as it's not handling high current. And such electronic interfaces in mbutt production can be made very cheaply. The snag comes when they are made badly - and things like dry solder joints etc cause them to fail after a few years. Of course like all such things they can often be repaired cheaply - it simply requires different skills to changing spark plugs. Which for some reason puts off the average DIYer. ;-)

-- *You are validating my inherent mistrust of strangers

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