Token passing facts for kids

Token passing is a special set of rules, called a protocol, used in telecommunications. Think of it like a "talking stick" for computers! This system uses a special digital signal called a token. This token makes sure that only one device on a network can send information at a time.

Imagine a group of friends wanting to talk, but only one person can speak at a time. The "talking stick" (the token) is passed around. Only the person holding the stick can talk. When they are done, they pass the stick to the next person. This is exactly how token passing works for computers!

What is Token Passing?

Token passing helps manage how computers share a network. It makes sure that different devices don't try to send information at the exact same time. If too many devices try to talk at once, it can cause digital "traffic jams" and slow everything down.

How Does the Token Work?

The token is like a special permission slip. When a device on the network wants to send data, it has to wait until it gets the token. Once it has the token, it can start sending its information.

• Only one device at a time: Just like the talking stick, only the device holding the token can send data.
• Passing the token: When a device finishes sending its data, or when its turn is over, it passes the token to the next device in line.
• Waiting for your turn: If a device has a lot of data to send, the token might move to the next device before it's completely finished. The device then has to wait for the token to come back to it before it can send the rest of its data.

Rules for Token Passing

Every token passing system has clear rules. These rules make sure the network runs smoothly. They decide:

• How long a device can keep the token.
• How much data a device can send when it has the token.
• What happens if the token gets lost or if a new token needs to be created.

These rules are very important for keeping the network organized and preventing problems.

Examples of Token Passing

Two well-known examples of networks that used token passing are Token Ring and ARCNET. These types of networks were popular ways for computers to connect and share information, especially in offices and businesses.