Data transmission

About this lab: Data transmission

Interactive simulation for Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science 0478 topic 2: watch a message split into packets that take different routes and are reassembled, compare serial and parallel and the three duplex modes, catch errors with parity bytes, parity blocks, checksums, echo checks and ISBN check digits, run ARQ with acknowledgements and timeouts, and encrypt with a shared key and with a public and private key pair.

IGCSE Computer Science 0478, topic 2. Packets and packet switching, serial and parallel, simplex to full-duplex and USB, parity, checksums, echo checks, check digits, automatic repeat query, and symmetric and asymmetric encryption.

Data transmission is a free, browser-based simulation for Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science 0478 (topic 2 Data transmission). The same lab serves both Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science 0478 and AS & A Level Computer Science 9618; tabs marked A-Level go beyond the IGCSE syllabus. The course is assessed in Paper 1 (Computer Systems), Paper 2 (Algorithms, Programming and Logic). Syllabus for examination in 2026-2028. There are 6 tabs, each a self-contained experiment with its own controls and live readings, and nothing to install: it runs on a laptop, tablet or classroom projector.

Syllabus coverage

• 2.1 Types and methods of data transmission. Lessons: Packets and packet switching, Serial and parallel, simplex, half-duplex and full-duplex, The universal serial bus (USB).
• 2.2 Methods of error detection. Lessons: Parity checks, checksums and echo checks, Check digits and automatic repeat query (ARQ).
• 2.3 Encryption. Lessons: Symmetric and asymmetric encryption.
• 9618 17.1 Encryption, Encryption Protocols and Digital certificates. Lessons: Symmetric and asymmetric encryption, quantum cryptography, SSL and TLS, Digital signatures and digital certificates.

Full syllabus map: IGCSE Computer Science 0478 topic 2 and A Level Computer Science 9618 topic 17.

How to use this simulation

1. 1. Packet switching.
2. 2. Serial, parallel, duplex.
3. 3. Parity checks.
4. 4. Checksum, echo, check digit.
5. 5. ARQ.
6. 6. Encryption.
7. The buttons at the end of the tab strip give the scene the whole window (Full screen, Hide controls) and, on a dark stage, a projector-friendly palette (Light scene). Many scenes also have drag handles: drag them to change the set-up directly.

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