Protocols
Flow Control
Mechanisms that regulate data transmission to prevent overflow when receiver can't keep pace with sender.
Detailed Explanation
Flow control ensures data isn't lost when a receiver is temporarily unable to accept more data. Common methods include valid-ready (receiver signals readiness each cycle), credit-based (sender tracks receiver buffer space), and XON/XOFF (receiver sends explicit pause/resume signals).
Proper flow control handles all corner cases: back-to-back transfers, sustained back-pressure, and interaction with other protocol signals. Bugs in flow control often cause data loss or deadlock.