Definition
A method of communication between a computer's central processing unit and a peripheral device in which all the bits making up a single character or data word are transmitted simultaneously over separate parallel wires.
Plain English
A way of moving data in which all the bits of one character travel at the same time, side by side, on their own wires — instead of one after another on a single wire.
Context Anchor
Seen in avionics, electronic instrument, and maintenance-manual discussions about how equipment reads or stores data.
Derivation
Parallel comes from the Greek parallelos, meaning 'beside one another.' Access here means 'a way of reaching or transferring' data. Together it describes data lines running side by side, each carrying one bit at the same moment.
Why Pilots Care
Reduces runway incursions and keeps ground traffic flowing safely during busy operations.
Analogy
Parallel access is like several checkout lanes working at once. Serial access would be like everyone going through one lane in order.
Intuition Check
Parallel access does not mean approaching something on a parallel path. Here, it means handling several pieces of electronic information at the same time.
Example Sentence 1
The display unit uses parallel access to receive data from the flight computer, allowing all eight bits of each character to arrive at once.
Example Sentence 2
Controllers routed arriving aircraft onto the parallel access during peak traffic to keep the main taxiway clear.