In computing, a bus is defined as a set of physical connections (i.e. cables, printed circuits, etc.), which can be shared by multiple hardware components in order to communicate with one another.

A bus is a subsystem that is used to connect computer components and transfer data between them. For example, an internal bus connects computer internals to the motherboard.

A bus may be parallel or serial. Parallel buses transmit data across multiple wires. Serial buses transmit data in bit-serial format.

Functions of Buses in Computers

Summary of functions of buses in computers

1. Data sharing - All types of buses found in a computer transfer data between the computer peripherals connected to it.

The buses transfer or send data in either serial or parallel method of data transfer. This allows for the exchange of 1, 2, 4 or even 8 bytes of data at a time. (A byte is a group of 8 bits). Buses are classified depending on how many bits they can move at the same time, which means that we have 8-bit, 16-bit, 32-bit or even 64-bit buses.

2. Addressing - A bus has address lines, which match those of the processor. This allows data to be sent to or from specific memory locations.

3. Power - A bus supplies power to various peripherals connected to it.

4. Timing - The bus provides a system clock signal to synchronize the peripherals attached to it with the rest of the system.

The expansion bus facilitates easy connection of more or additional components and devices on a computer such as a TV card or sound card.