Data communication is the transfer of data from one point to another via the network. It could be a wired medium such as optical fibers or copper wires, a wireless medium like microwaves or radio waves, or even a computer bus. The information that is transferred is typically represented as an electromagnetic signal which can vary in speed or amplitude.
The transmission of information over long distances is perhaps the most difficult part of data communication. Signals that travel over long conductors may be affected by noise or electrical distortion that can cause corruption of the original data.
Error detection is an essential aspect of a successful data communications. This is done by adding a checksum code to the data packets that comprise an entire transmission, and then checking it against the totality of all individual packets when they reach their destination. If the sum that is derived is zero, then there are no errors occurred in the data transmission.
It is vital to maintain a high data transmission rate to ensure an accurate and reliable transmission. This can be accomplished by ensuring that data transfers over a medium free from interference, or by sending redundant information to avoid the loss of data due to intermittent interruptions.
A reliable data communication system is essential for a variety of applications, including traffic information, chat services, file downloads, and internet-based services. Traffic data, for instance can provide real-time estimates of traffic to motorists and pedestrians on the road, which will assist them in making better decisions.