What is automatic repeat request (ARQ)? - Definition from Whatis.com

Definition

automatic repeat request (ARQ)

Automatic repeat request (ARQ) is a protocol for error control in data transmission. When the receiver detects an error in a packet, it automatically requests the transmitter to resend the packet. This process is repeated until the packet is error free or the error continues beyond a predetermined number of transmissions. ARQ is sometimes used with Global System for Mobile (GSM) communication to guarantee data integrity.

Contributor(s): Sandi Seidle
This was last updated in January 2002

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