multiplexes

Multiplexes is a term used to describe two related but distinct concepts. In cinema, a multiplex is a movie theater complex with several screens sharing common facilities. In telecommunications and broadcasting, multiplexing is a method of combining multiple signals into a single transmission channel to improve bandwidth efficiency.

Cinema multiplexes: These complexes house many screening rooms within one building, with shared lobbies, concessions, and parking. They emerged in the mid-20th century and became common from the 1960s onward, enabling distributors to show different films simultaneously and reduce the need for separate venues. Modern multiplexes use digital projection, surround sound, and stadium-style seating, and may include premium formats such as large-format screens and enhanced acoustics. They are typically operated by cinema chains and vary in size from a few screens to a dozen or more. The design emphasizes guest flow, accessibility, and revenue optimization through multiple screens and varied programming.

Telecommunications multiplexing: The process combines several discrete signals into one channel for transmission. Common techniques include frequency-division multiplexing (FDM), which allocates different frequency bands; time-division multiplexing (TDM), which assigns time slots; wavelength-division multiplexing (WDM) for optical fibers; and code-division multiplexing (CDM). Digital networks often use statistical or packetized multiplexing to carry data efficiently. Applications span telephone networks, cable television, satellite communications, and data networks, where multiplexing increases throughput and reduces infrastructure costs.

Overview: Multiplexing as a concept aims to increase capacity and efficiency by sharing a single transmission medium or venue among multiple streams. It is a foundational idea across media distribution and modern communications.