Summary

Chapter 8: Fundamental Networks 25Multipurpose DevicesSome network devices perform more than one function. It is more convenient to purchaseand configure one device that serves all your needs than to purchase a separate device foreach function. This is especially true for the home user. In your home, you would purchasea multipurpose device instead of a switch, a router, and a wireless access point. The Linksys300N, shown in Figure 8-15, is an example of a multipurpose device.Figure 8-15Multipurpose DeviceIdentify the Names, Purposes, and Characteristics ofCommon Network CablesUntil recently, cables were the only medium used to connect devices on networks. A widevariety of networking cables are available. Coaxial and twisted-pair cables use copper totransmit data. Fiber-optic cables use glass or plastic to transmit data. These cables differ inbandwidth, size, and cost. You need to know what type of cable to use in different situationsso that you install the correct cables for the job. You also need to be able to troubleshootand repair problems you encounter.Twisted PairTwisted pair is a type of copper cabling that is used for telephone communications andmost Ethernet networks. A pair of wires forms a circuit that can transmit data. The pair istwisted to provide protection against crosstalk, which is the noise generated by adjacentpairs of wires in the cable. Pairs of copper wires are encased in color-coded plastic insulationand are twisted together. An outer jacket protects the bundles of twisted pairs. Figure 8-16 shows a twisted-pair cable.