What is Daisy Chain Topology?

There are various types of network topologies, such as Ring, Mesh, Bus, etc. But the Daisy Chain topology is the preferred choice when setting up a small network consisting of a few devices in a simple, cost-effective manner that’s also easy to maintain. The reason being – its simplicity and cost-effectiveness.

What is Daisy Chain Topology?

The daisy chain topology links nodes in a sequence. Data is transferred from one node to the next until it reaches its destination. The two types of a daisy chain network topology are linear daisy chain and ring daisy chain.

In the former, devices are linked in a straight line with two ‘ends,’ similar to a bus topology. In the latter, a ‘ring’ of devices is formed. Ring daisy chain topologies are usually more favorable than linear daisy chain topologies as the data travels in a loop, thereby halving the number of senders and receivers. Further, in case of a single node or link getting damaged, the network does not grind to a halt as the data can just switch directions to reach its destination.

Why do we use it?

There are many advantages to the daisy chain topology. It doesn’t create any complex caballing networks and only limited wiring is needed for the function of multiple computers. It cleans up space by reducing the complexity of cluster formation. It uses only short cables that have a minimum length to connect ports and monitors. So it reduces the total length of wire and only a minimum PVC quantity is required which is cost-effective. The connection between monitors is easy to implement even though it is hosted in a remote area. Because only one display cable is required to connect the computer and port.

A computer graphics board is required to have a single display output port instead of several boards. So it makes it simple to implement the daisy chain network for small personal computer users and laptop users as they require only limited outputs. The daisy chain topology is a reliable system because the cables cannot be pulled out accidentally unlike some other complex cable systems. After all, the clip of the display port is connected to the terminal which is significant in view of the sensitive information. The daisy chain doesn’t impact the refresh rate of a monitor, which implies that the clarity of the image doesn’t get degraded as they are connected directly to personal computers.

An example of a daisy chain interface is a firewire and small computer system interface which enables the computer to interact with peripheral components such as CD-ROM, disk, tape drives, scanners, and printers which works faster and flexibly than existing interfacing components. It is popularly known for its simplicity and scalability.

According to the requirement, we can add or remove multiple nodes from the network. The daisy chain system can be extended as long as possible but it is not applicable in the system if the nodes are scattered all over the particular geographical region. So in those situations, the cables are connected as a zig-zag all around the network and become huge when compared with the actual distance between the nodes. This slows down the operation for the users located at the opposite end of the system.

Daisy Chain Topology Advantages

• Easy to set up and understand, especially for small computer networks.
• Requires minimal cabling compared to other topologies, such as Mesh, Ring, etc.
• Easy to add new devices by simply connecting them to the end of the chain.
• Eliminates the cost and potential failure point of a central device.
• Devices are connected in a single line, reducing cable clutter.

Daisy Chain Topology Disadvantages

• If one device in the chain fails, the entire network beyond that point is disrupted.
• Adding too many devices can significantly impact network performance due to the sequential data flow.
• Data has to travel through each device in the chain, leading to potential performance bottlenecks, especially with large networks.
• Identifying the source of a problem can be more difficult due to the interconnected nature of the chain.
• Expanding the network in a specific direction or rearranging devices can be cumbersome compared to other topologies.

Conclusion

Hence the daisy chain network is a simple and reliable network that has its specified applications and deployment. The chaining of multiple components of the UART port to each other to behave cooperatively and helps to seize the activation of the bus at any time in case of an emergency preventing the rest of the network without impacting its productivity.