Multiplex

To combine multiple signals (analog or digital) for transmission over a single line or media. A common type of multiplexing combines several low-speed signals for transmission over a single high-speed connection. The following are several examples of different multiplexing methods:

Frequency Division Multiplexing (FDM) : each signal is assigned a different frequency

Time Division Multiplexing (TDM) : each signal is assigned a fixed time slot in a fixed rotation

Statistical Time Division Multiplexing (STDM): time slots are assigned to signals dynamically to make better use of bandwidth

Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM) : each signal is assigned a particular wavelength; used on optical fiber.