Non-synchronous
Non-synchronous describes a process, system, or event that does not occur or operate in a coordinated or timed manner with other related elements. It implies a lack of strict timing alignment, where actions are not necessarily initiated or completed simultaneously. Instead, events may occur independently and at varying intervals, often relying on communication protocols to handle timing discrepancies. This asynchronous behavior is often crucial in systems where components may have different processing speeds, require independent operation, or need to accommodate network latency.
Non-synchronous meaning with examples
- In a distributed database system, data replication often occurs in a non-synchronous manner. Updates made on one server are propagated to others with a delay, allowing for faster initial transaction completion at the cost of eventual consistency. This asynchronous nature is vital for handling network congestion and maintaining system availability, even during temporary disruptions.
- Email communication is a classic example of non-synchronous interaction. Senders and receivers do not need to be online simultaneously. Messages are stored and delivered when the recipient checks their inbox, making email a convenient, time-independent mode of information exchange. This allows communication across varying time zones.
- Consider an online course with pre-recorded lectures and assignments. Students can access the materials and complete the work at their own pace, asynchronously. There's no requirement for synchronous participation. This flexible, non-synchronous learning approach makes education more accessible to individuals with diverse schedules and commitments.
- When streaming live video, non-synchronous processes are at play. The encoder processes video frames independently, packaging data into a stream and sending them over a network. On the receiving end, a decoder and buffer manage the stream to ensure a smooth viewing experience, even if there are network delays or slight timing variations.
