Lecture Objectives Define computer network and the requirements to build a network. Describe the functions, features and operation of network devices. Descr i b e t h e pr i m ary t y pes of net w ork c a b l es, included c oaxi a l, shie l ded and unshielded twisted pairs, Fiber optic (Single and Multimode). Describe the Cabling tools (Stripper, crimp tool, cutter ….).
Computer Network Overview One of the primary purposes of a network is to increase the productivity by linking computers and computer networks, so that people have easy access to information regardless of difference in time, place, or type of computer system. The requirements to build networks are : Physical Connection : Devices [ NIC (printed circuit that provide net comm.), PCMCIA (for laptop), Modem, DSL & Cable modem (always on)], Cables [ UTP, Coax, Fiber, STP ]. Logical Connection : refers to protocols, rules, conventions that enable different computers to communicate [ TCP/IP, IPX ]. Applications : they interpret the data & display the info in an understandable format [ receive & request info, contact web servers ].
Network Devices E n d – User Dev ices Intermediary- Devices
Network Interface Card (NIC) Network Interface Card P C MCIA Ethe r net Adapt e r A ci r c u i t b oard inst a lled in a c o m puting devi c e th a t is used t o a ttach t h e device to a network.
Rep e at e r A device that receives, amplifies, and retransmits a signal.
Hub (Multi Port Repeater) A device used to connect several computers within the same network. They do not divide the computers into multiple nets or segments.
Bridge Bridges convert network transmission data formats as well as perform basic data transmission management. Bridges, as the name implies, provide connections between LANs. Not only do bridges connect LANs, but they also perform a check on the data to determine whether it should cross the bridge or not. This makes each part of the network more efficient.
Switch Similar to bridges, switches forward & flood traffic based on MAC Address, but they are faster because each switch port acts as a separate bridge & gives each host the full bandwidth . That is , collisions do not occur.
Router A network device that can connect between different nets. It deals with IP address & has multi port of different technologies (Ethernet, Token Ring, FDDI, ATM). These facilities make it the backbone of the Internet. The purpose of a router is to examine incoming packets, choose the best path for them & switch them to the proper outgoing port.. All that done based on IP address.
Fiber Optic The is m edia t rans m i t s l ig h t. A d van t ages o f using fiber: to electromagnetic Interference High resistance (EMI) High BW. Low attenuation. More secure. Fiber costs are less than copper for long distance. No grounding needed. Light in weight. Better resistance to environment factor like water.