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Unit Contents
Overview 
We begin this unit with a brief look at the two common communication signaling methods responsible for carrying data across cables and networks. We will look at the general characteristics of broadband and baseband signals, which are electronic signals that represent information. Physical network cable types, including cable construction characteristics and specifications, will also be examined. In addition, we will explore how cable and network electronics can have different design layouts referred to as topologies. One way to understand network topologies is to think of the highway planning department and highway system. The planning department determines how wide the roads are, similar to the network manager choosing whether to use 10 megabits per second (Mbps) or 100 Mbps network speeds. The planning department determines pavement type and layout of the roads, just like a network manager determines which cable type and topology is best for the required configuration. Finally, the intersections that manage the flow of traffic in a network are reviewed. We know the benefits of having a cloverleaf intersection versus a stoplight. Similarly, a network manager chooses between hub types, routers, and gateways to maximize data traffic flow for optimum network performance. The topology of a network encompasses the physical components, distance, capacity, central connections, and routes that information can take when going across a network.
Terms You Should Know
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