Parallel: data communications using multiple connections, typically 8 or more, in parallel to transfer whole bytes (or more) of information per cycle. Serial: data communications using few connections, typically 2 or 4, that send/receive 1 bit of information per cycle. The electro-physical connections (pins, cables, circuit board connectors) between devices that support data communications. The established methods or rules used between devices to send or receive data communications. Data Communications Terms NameĮlectronic transfer of information via wired and wireless mediums. *Note: The CSI and DSI connectors on the Pi also offer data communications to camera and display devices, but this article covers the general purpose communications buses on the RPi GPIO.īefore we discuss the features and differences between these methods, let's review a few common communications terms and definitions. Universal Asynchronous Receiver-TransmitterĪsynchronous, serial data transmission between devices. Uses 2 pins.įull-duplex, serial data transmission used for short-distance between devices. Half duplex, serial data transmission used for short-distance between boards, modules and peripherals. Table of RPi Serial Communications Methods via GPIO* Name I2C, SPI and UART are all digital, serial communications methods.

Examples of devices that the RPi may communicate include: display devices, sensors, robotics, other computers, input devices, industrial controls, scientific instruments.

This article will contrast the three methods and highlight some of their advantages/disadvantages.ĭata communications is important for devices, like the Raspberry Pi, to communicate and exchange 'data' with other devices. Each has characteristics that may be better for a particular project. UART = Universal Asynchronous Receiver / TransmitterĪll represent standard communications protocols that are available through the Raspberry Pi GPIO (General Purpose Input/Output) pins.

So exactly what do these cryptic acronyms mean?

C serial port example on raspberry pi