A method of coding parallel data for transmission while maintaining baud rate includes the steps of providing a plurality of uncoded data blocks having a predetermined baud rate, demultiplexing the data blocks to sequentially distribute the data blocks to encoders, encoding the data blocks at the predetermined baud rate, and serializing the coded data blocks for serially transmitting data at the predetermined baud rate. A system for coding parallel data for serial transmission while maintaining baud rate is included wherein the predetermined baud rate is maintained by providing an adequate number transmission links rather than increasing baud rate.