Differential Signaling
Differential signaling is a method of electrical communication that uses two complementary signals to transmit information, where the voltage difference between the two conductors carries the data rather than the voltage of a single conductor referenced to ground. This approach offers significant advantages in noise immunity, electromagnetic compatibility, and signal integrity compared to single-ended signaling, making it essential for high-speed data transmission in modern electronic systems.
In differential signaling systems, both conductors carry equal and opposite signals that ideally maintain perfect symmetry and balance. This symmetry provides natural rejection of common-mode noise and interference, as any noise coupled equally to both conductors cancels out when the differential voltage is extracted. However, maintaining this ideal balance throughout the signal path presents numerous challenges including impedance matching, skew control, mode conversion, and proper return path management.