What is the Difference between encoder and multiplexer?
An encoder refers to a device that is used to change a signal or data into a code. Whereas a Multiplexer or mux is a device which performs multiplexing or it takes information from more than one...

Decoder/demultiplexer A logic circuit, usually an integrated circuit, that is capable of setting one of its 2n output lines active, i.e. at logic 1, in response to an n-bit binary code present at its input. For an n-bit device, 2n distinct elements of a code can be input.

A decoder/demultiplexer may be considered as a switch that directs data from a time-shared data bus to one of several possible outputs under the control of a select signal, which is normally digital; the select signal indicates which of the outputs is to be connected to the input (see diagram). Individual data channels may be recovered from a time-division multiplexed input bus provided that the scanning of the select signal is made synchronous with that of t ...more

Source: encyclopidia.com

An encoder refers to a device that is used to change a signal or data into a code. Whereas a Multiplexer or mux is a device which performs multiplexing or it takes information from more than one channels and outputs into a single channel. Thus a multiplexer is basically a kind of encoder where its function is to combine multiple inputs into one output. A decoder takes n inputs and produces 2^n outputs. An encoder takes 2^n inputs and produces n outputs.
A multiplexer selects one line from many lines. The inverse of selection is distribution. A demux essentially transmits data from one line line to 2^n possible output lines. The output line is determined by n select lines. In short, a multiplexer selects an input line, a demultiplexer selects an output line.

The differences between these two circuits is subtle, as far as I can tell. A demux simply selects an output line, nothing more. It's a glorified switch. A decoder takes n inputs, and uses those inputs to determine which of the ...more