What Is Full Duplex and How Is It Used?

Full duplex communication systems are an exciting technological innovation that allows devices to send and receive information at the same time. You likely use technologies like this daily, such as Ethernet, Bluetooth, and telecommunications networks. Continue reading to explore full duplex communication systems, including how they work and common devices that use this technology.

What is full duplex?

Full duplex is a communication protocol that enables two devices to transmit and receive data simultaneously. Full duplex systems achieve this by providing two separate communication channels or paths, one for transmitting and one for receiving, enabling the devices to send and receive data independently.

Depending on the technology and application, various techniques are deployed to achieve full duplex communication. For example, in Ethernet networks, full duplex communication utilizes a technique called carrier sense multiple access with collision detection (CSMA/CD), which allows devices to transmit and receive data simultaneously without collisions or data loss.

In wireless communication systems such as radios, full duplex communication utilizes a technique called frequency division duplex (FDD), which separates the transmission and receives channels by using different frequency bands.

Full duplex communication is particularly important in applications that require real-time, high-speed data transfer, such as telephone networks and video conferencing. In these applications, the ability to transmit and receive data simultaneously is critical for maintaining a smooth, uninterrupted flow of data.

Full duplex communication provides a more efficient and effective way for devices to communicate, allowing faster data transfer rates and improved performance.

Read more: What Is Data Communication? Basics to Know

How full duplex works

In full duplex communication, data transmission uses separate channels for sending and receiving data. Each channel operates independently of the other, allowing the devices to transmit and receive data simultaneously without any conflicts.

Each party has a dedicated communication path, which allows them to transmit and receive data simultaneously without collisions. Techniques such as frequency division duplexing (FDD) or time division duplexing (TDD) help achieve full duplex.

In FDD, the communication channel appears divided into two separate frequency bands, one for upstream (transmitting) and one for downstream (receiving). Each party uses a different frequency band to transmit and receive data simultaneously. In TDD, the channel is divided into time slots, with each party taking turns transmitting and receiving data during different time slots. 

The design of full duplex communication maximizes data transfer rates and minimizes latency, allowing devices to transmit and receive data simultaneously. This makes it suited for applications that require instantaneous and fast data transfer.

Devices that use full duplex

Full duplex communication is a popular choice for many types of devices. Some examples you might recognize include:

• Telephones 

• Video conferencing systems   

• Bluetooth

• Wireless headsets

• Live chats

• Satellite communication systems

Full duplex vs. half duplex vs. simplex

Three primary modes of communication exist that devices can use to transmit data: full duplex, half duplex, and simplex. Each mode has its unique characteristics and applications. Next is a breakdown of each type and what makes them different.

• Full duplex: As mentioned, data is transmitted and received simultaneously in full duplex mode. This mode uses two separate communication channels, one for sending data and another for receiving data. Communication experiences no delay in this case, unlike in half duplex. Full duplex is ideal for devices that require real-time communication, such as phone calls.

• Half duplex: Half duplex communication allows devices to send and receive data, but not at the same time. This mode uses a single communication channel, meaning data can only flow in one direction at a time. Half duplex is commonly used in devices that require occasional communication and low-volume data transmission, such as two-way walkie-talkies.

• Simplex: Simplex is a communication mode in which data can only transmit in one direction, commonly referred to as unidirectional. The receiving device cannot transmit data back to the transmitting device. This mode is typically used for devices that only need to send data, such as a television broadcasting station or baby monitors.

In terms of differences, full duplex and half duplex modes both allow for bidirectional communication, but the key difference between them is that full duplex allows for simultaneous data transmission and reception, whereas half duplex does not. Simplex, on the other hand, only allows for unidirectional communication, which means data can only be transmitted in one direction.

Another difference is that full duplex requires two separate communication channels, one for sending and another for receiving, while half duplex and simplex use a single communication channel. This makes full duplex more bandwidth-intensive than half duplex and simplex modes.

Important takeaways from the differences are that each mode of communication has its unique characteristics and applications. Full duplex is ideal for devices that require real-time communication, while half duplex is commonly used in devices that require occasional non-concurrent communication. Simplex is typically used for devices that only need to send data out instead of receiving, such as televisions and radios.

How to get started in full duplex

If you want to pursue full duplex communication systems further, consider completing a degree in communication systems, such as a master's in electrical engineering with a focus on communication systems or a master's in computer science with a focus on networking. 

Education

Some universities offer an undergraduate major in communication or information technology, designed to expose you to necessary theory and practical skills related to communication systems. The courses in this major typically dive into broadcasting, modern media communication, and computer networks, allowing you to become an expert in communication while building your technology skills. 

Certifications

Consider earning certifications to enhance your resume and show employers you're committed to this career. Certain certifications, like those offered by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), can validate your knowledge of communication technologies. 

Beyond education, a wide range of career paths exist for you as an expert in information technology and computer systems. Some of the top industries include information technology, media, and systems analytics. 

Career

Becoming an information systems manager is one specific career that deals with full duplex communication systems. According to Glassdoor, the average annual US salary for information systems managers is $120,781, and the usual education required to land an entry-level role is a bachelor’s degree [1]. As an information systems manager, you take on the responsibility of managing an organization's technology and additional computer needs. This may include leading a team of information technology professionals, troubleshooting various technology issues within your company, and even creating a technology budget based on your organization's needs.  

Read more: What Is MIS (Management Information Systems)? Degree Guide

Getting started with Coursera

Full duplex communication systems transmit data simultaneously between two devices. This is handy when you need fast, seamless communication, such as on a phone or video call. If you’re interested in learning more about completing a course or receiving a relevant certificate, this is a great place to start. On Coursera, you can enroll in some of the top courses in the world.

If you want to learn more about related topics and take a more advanced course, consider enrolling in Digital Signal Processing 1: Basic Concepts and Algorithms by EPFL. This course is entirely online and offered at an intermediate level; the estimated time to complete is 20 hours.