18 November 2022

Serial Vs Parallel Port | Difference | Comparison

The two types of ports are, as the name suggests, serial and parallel. Serial and parallel ports are primarily distinguished by their implementations, with the former being used for serial communication. In contrast parallel, ports are used when parallel communication is desired. So the basic difference between them is Serial ports send data one bit at a time while parallel ports send multiple bits at once. So let's debate the Serial Vs Parallel port to understand more about it.

What is a Serial port?

A serial port is an interface that connects serial lines to achieve serial communication. These ports can dock a DB-9 connector, which is 9pin shaped connector that connects to the transmission line. Serial communication is achieved by a single wire, with simply a single stream of data sent from one end to the other. As a result, unlike in parallel transmission, data speed mismatch is not an issue in serial transmission. The wire length can be adjusted as needed.

What is a Parallel port?

A parallel port is opposed to a serial port, which May move eight bits at a time over eight distinct wires. Because of this, it is faster than serial transmission. Unlike a serial port, it employs a 25-pin connector known as a DB-25 connector. To minimize crosstalk and mistakes, all bitstreams in parallel communication must send data at the same rate. However, this is unworkable. As a result, in parallel communication, transmission lines are desired to be short. Parallel ports are commonly found in zip drives, printers, and hard drives.

Serial Vs Parallel Port | Difference between Serial and Parallel Ports:

  • The serial port is used to achieve serial transmission, While a Parallel port is used to achieve parallel transmission.
  • The transmission speed of serial ports is comparatively low as compared to parallel port transmission speed. While the transmission speed of the parallel ports is higher than the serial port transmission speed.
  • In serial port communication, less number of wires are used. While in parallel port communication more wires are used as compared to the serial port.
  • A serial port is capable of delivering a single stream of data. While a parallel port is capable of delivering multiple streams of data.
  • A serial port sends a bit after another bite at a time. While parallel ports send multiple bits at once.
  • Serial ports and male ports are involved. While in a parallel port, female ports are involved.
  • Serial ports are typically implemented in modems, connecting devices, security cameras, and controllers. While parallel ports are typically implemented in zip drives, printers, hard drives, CD-ROM drives, etc. 
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