What is computer Network? Discuss different types of data transmission media in computer network with their advantages and disadvantages.

Question

Suresh Chand · Accepted Answer

A computer network is a group of computers linked to each other that enables the computer to communicate with another computer and share their resources, data, and applications. A computer network can be categorized by their size. A computer network is mainly of four types: LAN(Local Area Network) PAN(Personal Area Network) MAN(Metropolitan Area Network) WAN(Wide Area Network) In data communication terminology, a transmission medium is a physical path between the transmitter and the receiver i.e. it is the channel through which data is sent from one place to another. Transmission Media is broadly classified into the following types: 1. Guided Media: It is also referred to as Wired or Bounded transmission media. Signals being transmitted are directed and confined in a narrow pathway by using physical links. Features: High Speed Secure Used for comparatively shorter distances There are 3 major types of Guided Media: (i) Twisted Pair Cable – It consists of 2 separately insulated conductor wires wound about each other. Generally, several such pairs are bundled together in a protective sheath. (ii) Coaxial Cable – It has an outer plastic covering containing an insulation layer made of PVC or Teflon and 2 parallel conductors each having a separate insulated protection cover. The coaxial cable transmits information in two modes: Baseband mode(dedicated cable bandwidth) and Broadband mode(cable bandwidth is split into separate ranges). Cable TVs and analog television networks widely use Coaxial cables. (iii) Optical Fiber Cable – It uses the concept of reflection of light through a core made up of glass or plastic. The core is surrounded by a less dense glass or plastic covering called the cladding. It is used for the transmission of large volumes of data. The cable can be unidirectional or bidirectional. The WDM (Wavelength Division Multiplexer) supports two modes, namely unidirectional and bidirectional mode. The advantage and disadvantage of guided media are Advantages The cost of guided media is very low (inexpensive) and easily available. This is very Flexible and Lightweight. Very easy to set up and install. Disadvantages Bandwidth is very low in guided media. Susceptible to interference and noise- (Noise is an electrical disturbance that can degrade communication) 2. Unguided Media: It is also referred to as Wireless or Unbounded transmission media. No physical medium is required for the transmission of electromagnetic signals. Features: The signal is broadcasted through air Less Secure Used for larger distances There are 3 types of Signals transmitted through unguided media: (i) Radio waves – These are easy to generate and can penetrate through buildings. The sending and receiving antennas need not be aligned. Frequency Range:3KHz – 1GHz. AM and FM radios and cordless phones use Radio waves for transmission. (ii) Microwaves – It is a line of sight transmission i.e. the sending and receiving antennas need to be properly aligned with each other. The distance covered by the signal is directly proportional to the height of the antenna. Frequency Range:1GHz – 300GHz. These are majorly used for mobile phone communication and television distribution. (iii) Infrared – Infrared waves are used for very short distance communication. They cannot penetrate through obstacles. This prevents interference between systems. Frequency Range:300GHz – 400THz. It is used in TV remotes, wireless mouse, keyboard, printer, etc. The advantage and disadvantage of unguided media are Advantages: Use for long distance communication. High speed data transmission. Many receiver stations can receive signals from same sender station. Disadvantages: Very costly. Radio waves travel through Lowest portion of atmosphere

What is computer Network? Discuss different types of data transmission media in computer network with their advantages and disadvantages.

Leave your Answer:

Hits Counter

Question

What is computer Network? Discuss different types of data transmission media in computer network with their advantages and disadvantages.

Leave your Answer: