Serial vs. parallel data lines Which statement best describes the wiring requirement for parallel transmission of digital data between a sender and a receiver?

Introduction / Context:
Choosing between serial and parallel links affects cabling, connectors, cost, and speed. Understanding the line requirements prevents design mistakes in hardware interfacing.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Parallel interfaces send multiple bits simultaneously.
• Each bit typically needs its own dedicated conductor plus grounds and control lines.

Concept / Approach:
Parallel transfer uses N data lines for N-bit words so all bits arrive concurrently. This increases connector size and crosstalk risk but reduces per-word latency over short distances.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Define parallel: multiple bits in the same time slot.Consequence: provide one conductor per bit path.Therefore, the number of signal lines equals the number of bits transmitted in parallel.

Verification / Alternative check:
Legacy printer ports (8-bit parallel) used eight data lines plus control/status lines, illustrating the rule.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
“Much slower”: parallel is not inherently slower; it can be faster over short cables.“Only one signal line”: describes serial, not parallel.“Less expensive”: usually false due to more conductors and larger connectors.

Common Pitfalls:
Ignoring skew and crosstalk; at high speed and distance, serial links often outperform parallel.

Final Answer:
requires as many signal lines between sender and receiver as there are data bits.