A simple, physical demonstration of multiplexing (selecting 1 of N inputs to a single output) can be modeled most clearly using which manual hardware control?

Introduction / Context:
A multiplexer (MUX) routes one of several inputs to a single output line based on select signals. Demonstrating this concept with tangible hardware helps beginners grasp the selection mechanism before moving to ICs and HDL descriptions.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Goal: manually emulate choosing 1 of N inputs to one output.
• No need for simultaneous multi-path routing (just one path at a time).
• Emphasis on intuitive, physical analogy.

Concept / Approach:
A single-pole, multi-throw rotary switch has one common wiper (the output) and multiple selectable throws (inputs). Rotating the knob selects exactly one input to connect to the output—precisely the behavior of a 1-of-N MUX. DPDT switches route two poles simultaneously and are not a clean 1-of-N model; relays and steppers do not directly illustrate MUX selection.

Step-by-Step Solution:
1) Identify MUX behavior: one output, many candidate inputs.2) Map to hardware: the rotary switch wiper corresponds to the MUX output; each throw is an input.3) Selection action: rotating selects one throw at a time, like asserting select lines.4) Therefore, a rotary switch best demonstrates basic multiplexing.

Verification / Alternative check:
Electronics labs often use rotary selectors to choose among channels, identical in concept to a 1-of-N selector implemented in silicon.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Single-pole relay: on/off control, not 1-of-N selection.

DPDT: switches two lines simultaneously, not arbitrary N-way selection.

Linear stepper/potentiometer: not discrete 1-of-N routing devices.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing multi-throw selection with multi-pole switching. A MUX is about choosing exactly one input path to the output.

Final Answer:
rotary switch (single-pole, multi-throw)