Physical Connection

The physical connection determines how many bits (1's or 0's) can be transmitted in a single instance of time. If only 1 bit of information can be transmitted over the data transmission medium at a time then it is considered a serial communication.

If more than 1 bit of information is transmitted over the data transmission medium at a time then it is considered a parallel communication.

Communications	Advantages	Disadvantages
Parallel	Fast Transfer Rates	Short distances only
Serial	Long Distances	Slow transfer rates