An address channel carries control information that describes the nature of the data to be transferred. The data is transferred between master and slave using either:
• A write data channel to transfer data from the master to the slave. In a write    transaction, the slave uses the write response channel to signal the completion of the transfer to the master.
• A read data channel to transfer data from the slave to the master. [4]
 
Channel definition
    Each of the independent channels consists of a set of information signals and VALID and READY signals that provide a two-way handshake mechanism. The information source uses the VALID signal to show when valid address, data or control information is available on the channel. The destination uses the READY signal to show when it can accept the information. Both the read data channel and the write data channel also include a LAST signal to indicate the transfer of the final data item in a transaction. The appropriate address channel carries all of the required address and control information for a transaction.
 
All five transaction channels use the same VALID/READY handshake process to transfer address, data, and control information. This two-way flow control mechanism means both the master and slave can control the rate at which the information moves between master and slave. Transfer occurs only when both the VALID and READY signals are HIGH. [4]