diffsignaal

A diffsignaal, or differential signal, is a method of transmitting information electronically by using two complementary signals that are transmitted over two wires. These two signals are equal in magnitude but opposite in polarity. The information is encoded in the difference between these two signals. When the signals arrive at their destination, a differential receiver subtracts one signal from the other. This process effectively doubles the signal amplitude while common-mode noise, which affects both wires equally, is cancelled out.

This technique is widely used in various electronic communication systems, particularly where robustness against electromagnetic interference (EMI) is crucial. Examples include USB (Universal Serial Bus) connections, Ethernet networking cables, and digital audio interfaces like S/PDIF. The differential signaling approach allows for longer transmission distances and higher data rates compared to single-ended signaling, where signals are referenced to ground. The symmetrical nature of differential signaling helps maintain signal integrity by minimizing susceptibility to external noise sources.