Block Diagram

Block diagram – a graphical representation of a system that is employed in engineering to illustrate the interconnection of components of the system. Usually, block diagram employs squares or rectangles to depict each component, and to convey its role, as well as data flow.

In general, block diagrams are a simpler form of flowcharts that help one get an overview of the system approach to software or hardware. The arrows connecting each of the blocks depict the connection of each of the elements. Block diagrams are useful in communication to the team since they help in creating a common view of the system.

Block diagrams are very effective in capturing the structure of a system in system architecture design and software engineering applications in depicting the flow of interactions between various elements of the system. To depict individual entities or parts, block diagrams consist of square or rectangular blocks and to show the flow of data or control between the components arrows are used, thus providing a bird’s eye view of the system. This makes them most useful in the early stages of a project where the goal is to get all the team members to have a clear understanding of what they are expected to do in the project.

In the field of embedded systems and DSP, block diagrams are used to illustrate the relationship between hardware and software and how they are integrated in the system. They assist engineers and developers to see areas of concern, improve data flow, and make sure that all elements of the system are harmonious. Also, block diagrams are helpful in the model-based design to model and test the system before actual implementation of the system to avoid occurrence of errors in the system. Block diagrams enable the teams to present the concepts, concentrate on goals, and ensure that everyone on the team understands the concept of system architecture and its elements.