What are data streams?

Complex data are sent through Data streams. The streams consist of data packets, containing binary data to be read by the device.

How to build a data Stream

Format of a standard data stream packet:  [Header Bits]  [Data Bits]  [Trailer Bits]  

• • Header Bits: The first few bits of a data packet (# of bits can vary but are based on negotiated protocol or defined standards) merely mark the start of the information. This is necessary as it signals the device that a new information is given. Note that while these change from devices, each device has a FIXED value for Header bits.

  • Data Bits: This middle section of the data packet uses most of the bits in the packet as it represents the actual data that is sent to the device. Note the data is just the information, & control characters may be used to signal a particular control sequence. For example; To move a Drone up 3 meters, the data bits in the stream would represent 3 meters in binary, but the direction and/or type of movement would also be represented by one or two bits of the data. These bits are called control characters.

  • Trailer Bits: These are the last few bits of the data packet and much like the header, they are kept the same. However these mark the end of a data packet and in some cases are even used to flag errors.