Communication Devices
An electronic device that can send and receive data on the network
data on the network is called the communication device.
The communication devices are used on both digital ends of the connections.
Most of the communication devices have the ability to
convert the signal of computer into analog signal so that the signals can
be transmitted on the communication line to another end. The reverse is also
true. The most important communication devices are:
1, Dialup Modem
2, Network Interface card (NIC)
3, Router
4, Switch/ Access Point
a) Dialup Modem:
A dial-up modem is a type of modem that uses a telephone line to connect to the internet. It is called a "dial-up" modem because it uses the same type of phone connection that you would use to make a telephone call. When you want to connect to the internet using a dial-up modem, you need to use a telephone to dial a special phone number that connects you to your internet service provider (ISP).
Dial-up modems are relatively slow compared to other types of internet connections, such as broadband or fiber optic. They typically have a maximum speed of around 56 kilobits per second (kbps). However, they can still be useful in situations where other types of internet connections are not available or are too expensive.
Dial-up modems are becoming less common as more people have access to faster internet connections. However, they are still used in some parts of the world where broadband or other high-speed internet connections are not yet available.
Fig 4.15 shows an External modem.
D. Network Interface Card
A network interface card (NIC) is a hardware component that is installed in a computer and allows the computer to connect to a network. The NIC is responsible for transmitting data to and from the network and is typically connected to the motherboard of the computer through a PCI or PCI Express slot.
There are several types of NICs, including Ethernet NICs, which use twisted pair cables to connect to a network, and wireless NICs, which use radio waves to connect to a wireless network.
The NIC plays a critical role in the operation of a computer on a network. It is responsible for sending and receiving data packets, as well as performing error checking and other functions to ensure that the data is transmitted accurately and efficiently.
Fig 4.16 shows a Network Interface card.
c. Router
A router is a networking device that forwards data packets between computer networks. It is connected to at least two networks, such as a local area network (LAN) and a wide area network (WAN), and uses routing tables and protocols to determine the best path for the data packets to take.
Routers can be used to connect devices within a home or office to the internet, or to connect multiple offices or buildings to create a larger network. They can also be used to connect different types of networks, such as a LAN and a WAN, or a wireless network and a wired network.
Routers often have built-in firewall functions to help protect the devices on the network from external threats, such as hackers and malware. They can also be used to prioritize certain types of traffic, such as streaming video or online gaming, to ensure that the network performs optimally.
Fig 4.17 shows a Wireless Router.
Fig 4.16 Wireless Router
d. Switch/ Access Point
A switch is a networking device that connects devices together on a computer network. It is called a "switch" because it uses packet switching to forward data to its destination. A switch is typically used to connect devices within a single local area network (LAN), such as the computers and other devices in a home or office.
An access point (AP) is a networking device that allows wireless devices to connect to a wired network. It acts as a bridge between the wired network and the wireless devices, allowing them to communicate with each other. Access points are often used in large offices or public spaces to provide wireless internet access to a large number of people.
Both switches and access points are used to connect devices on a network and facilitate communication between them. However, switches are used to connect devices on a wired network, while access points are used to connect wireless devices to a wired network.
Fig 4.17 Switch
Point. Fig 4.18 shows a Switch
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