Computer Systems Servicing

Lesson 3: Networking Devices

After going through this lesson, you are expected to:

1. Explain the use of different network devices;

2. Discuss the different network tools and materials.

Let’s Elaborate

NETWORK TOOLS AND TESTING DEVICES

Network devices are an electronic device which are required for communication and interaction between devices on a computer network. They mediate data transmission in a computer network. In this lesson, the learner should be able to know what networking devices and testing tools should be used to perform different task.

Hub

It is the most basic networking that connects multiple computers or other network devices together. Each computer plugs into the hub with an Ethernet cable and information sent from one computer to the other computer passes through the hub. A hub can't identify the source or intended destination of the information it receives, so it sends the information to all of the computers connected to it, including the one Network Device Internet Service Provider that sent it. A hub can send or receive information, but it can't do both at the same time. Hubs are the least complex and the least expensive of these devices.

Switch

A network switch connects devices on a computer network by using packet switching to receive and forward data to the destination device meaning they can identify the intended destination of the information that they receive, so they send that information to only computers that are supposed to receive it. If your home network has four or more computers or you want to use your network for activities that require passing a lot of information between computers (such as playing network games or sharing music), you should probably use a switch instead of a hub. Switches cost a little more than hubs.

Bridge

A bridge is a computer networking device that builds the connection with the other bridge networks which use the same protocol. It works at the Data Link layer of the OSI Model and connects the different networks together and develops communication between them. It connects two local area networks; two physical LANs into larger logical LAN or two segments of the same LAN that use the same protocol. It has a layer of 2 device. It is also a two ports device

Router

Routers enable computers to communicate and they can pass information between two networks—such as between your home network and the Internet. This capability to direct network traffic is what gives the router its name. Routers can be wired (using Ethernet cables) or wireless. If you just want to connect your computers, hubs and switches work well; however, if you want to give all of your computers access to the Internet using one modem, use a router or a modem with a built-in router. Routers also typically provide built-in security, such as a firewall.

Wireless Access Point (APS OR WAPS)

Access points (also called base stations) provide wireless access to a wired Ethernet network. An access point plugs into a hub, switch, or wired router and sends out wireless signals. This enables computers and devices to connect to a wired network wirelessly. Access points act a lot like cellular phone towers: you can move from one location to another and continue to have wireless access to a network.

MODEM (Modulator/Demodulator)

It is a device that converts the computer-generated digital signals of a computer into analog signals to enable their traveling via phone lines. The "modulator-demodulator" or modem can be used as a dial-up for LAN or to connect to an ISP. Modems can be both external, as in the device which connects to the USB or the serial port of a computer, or proprietary devices for handheld gadgets and other devices, as well as internal; in the form of add-in expansion cards for computers and PCMCIA cards for laptops

COMMON NETWORK TOOLS AND MATERIALS

Patch Panel

A panel that allows multiple devices to be connected and managed in a more efficient manner. Computer networks, sound studios, television stations, and a number of other systems use patch panels to deal with components of their electronic systems. A patch panel is essentially an array of ports on one panel. Each port connects, via a patch cable, to another port located elsewhere in your building

UTP CABLE

Short for unshielded twisted pair, a popular type of cable that consists of two unshielded wires twisted around each other. Due to its low cost, UTP cabling is used extensively for localarea networks (LANs) and telephone connections.

RJ 45

Short for Registered Jack-45, a RJ-45 is an 8-pin connection used for Ethernet network adapters. This connector resembles the RJ11 or 6-pin connector used with telephones in the United States, but they're completely different.

MODULAR BOX

Also known as, wall jack or plate, it is used to cover a portion of a wall where there is an opening for networking outlets. The cover is usually rectangular in shape and allows the cable(s) to come through the wall while still covering the larger opening.

Cable / LAN Tester

A cable tester is a device that is used to test the strength and connectivity of a particular type of cable or other wired assemblies. There are a number of different types of cable testers, each able to test a specific type of cable or wire (some may be able to test different types of cables or wires). A cable tester can test whether a cable or wire is set up properly, connected correctly, and the communication strength between the source and destination.

Punch Down Tool

It is also called a krone tool, is a hand tool used to connect telecommunications and network wires to a patch panel, punch down block, keystone module, or surface mount box. The "punch down" part of the name comes from punching a wire into place using an impact action. It consists of a handle, a spring mechanism, and a removable slotted blade. When the punch down tool connects a wire, the blade cuts off the excess wire.

Crimping Tool

It is s a device used to conjoin two pieces of metal by deforming one or both of them in a way that causes them to hold each other. The result of the tool's work is called a crimp. A good example of crimping is the process of affixing a connector to the end of a cable. For instance, network cables and phone cables are created using a crimping tool (shown below) to join the RJ-45 and RJ-11 connectors to both ends of either phone or CAT5 cable.

Wire Stripper

It is a tool designed to remove the protective covering (jacket) off of a cable to expose the inner wires. Because different wires come in different shapes, there are dozens of different wire strippers available. In the picture is an example of a wire stripper that strips cables when placed in-between the blade and the holder and spun around the cable until the cable jacket can be pulled off.

Remember:

1. Hub is the least expensive switch.

2. If your home network has four or more computers or you want to use your network for activities that require passing a lot of information between computers (such as playing network games or sharing music), you should probably use a switch instead of a hub.

3. if you want to give all of your computers access to the Internet using one modem, use a router or a modem with a built-in router. Routers also typically provide built-in security, such as a firewall.

4. UTP Cable and RJ45 are used to make ethernet cable or wired cable.

5. Network device is very important and has a unique function when it comes to networking.

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