UART Communication

UART Communication, short for Universal Asynchronous Receiver-Transmitter Communication, is a serial communication protocol used for data exchange between embedded devices. Unlike synchronous communication protocols, UART operates without a clock signal, allowing it to transmit data asynchronously. This means that the data is sent one bit at a time, sequentially along a single communication line, and the receiving device must be configured to match the sending device’s baud rate, data bits, parity, and stop bits to correctly interpret the incoming data. UART is often preferred in applications where simplicity and cost-effectiveness are prioritized, as it requires minimal wiring and is easy to implement.

Common Applications

Embedded Systems

UART communication is extensively used in embedded systems for interfacing microcontrollers with peripherals like sensors, GPS modules, and Bluetooth devices.

Computers and Terminals

Historically, UART was used in computer terminals to connect keyboards, mice, and other input devices.

Telecommunications

UART protocols are employed in modems and other telecommunications equipment to facilitate data transfer.

Safety Considerations

Signal Integrity

Ensuring signal integrity is crucial in UART communication. Noise and interference can corrupt data, so adequate shielding and proper grounding are necessary.

Error Detection

Implementing error detection mechanisms, such as parity bits, can help identify transmission errors, although they do not correct them.

Related Terms or Concepts

Baud Rate

The speed of data transmission in UART communication, measured in bits per second (bps).

RS-232

A standard for serial communication transmission of data, which often utilizes UART for data framing and transmission.

Parity

A form of error checking that adds an extra bit to the data being transmitted, used to detect errors in UART communication.

Stop Bits

Bits added to the end of a data packet in UART communication to signify the end of the transmission, allowing the receiver to recognize the boundary between separate data packets.