Unit 10-Communication Technologies

Assignment 2

Task 1a
Data terminal equipment (DTE)

This is a device used to enable users to interact with a communication network. DTE is known to be used
for sending and receiving data through a communication line. Instances if DTE devices are electronics
such as computers, terminals, printers, and routers.

Data circuit-termination equipment

DCE is utilized for the transmission of data between a DTE and a communication network. DCE units
assist in converting signals between different communication protocols, enabling, and ensuring data is
transmitted precisely. Examples of such devices are ISDN adapters, and CSU/DSUs.

3G/4G/5G

In communication technologies these are mobile networks standards that supply a wireless connection
to a mobile device. 3G, 4G and 5G are different in transfer speed, coverage, and network capabilities,
with 5G being the latest and best mobile network standard, allowing for lower latency and greater
network capacity than the 4G or 3G.

GPRS (General Packet Radio Service)

GPRS (General Packet Radio Service) is a cellular community generation that allows the transmission of
facts packets among cellular gadgets and the internet. GPRS is a low-speed data transfer technology that
allows users to browse the internet, send and receive emails, and transfer files.

Mobile phone

A mobile phone is a portable communication device which allows for users to make as well as receive
calls and send text messages. Modern smartphones offer advanced features such as internet browsing,
social media integration, and multimedia capabilities.

Laptop

A laptop is a portable computer designed for mobile use. Laptops offer similar functionality to desktop
computers but are designed to be easily transported. Laptops typically feature a built-in display,
keyboard, and touchpad, allowing users to work and communicate on the go.

Netbook

A netbook is small and lightweight laptop, it enables basic computing tasks like web browsing or word
processing. Netbooks tend to feature low-power processors, limited storage capacity, and smaller
displays than traditional laptops. Netbooks were popular in the early 2010s but due to technological
advancements have been replaced by tablets and other mobile devices
Task 1b
Digital Signalling Method

Digital signalling methods are techniques utilised when encoding information into digital signals which
will enable transmission over a communication channel. Some common digital signalling methods
include amplitude shift keying (ASK), frequency shift keying (FSK), and phase shift keying (PSK).

Representing Data Electronically

Data can be presented electronically using bits, which are the smallest subdivision of digital information,
or bytes, which are made up of eight bits. Packet structures are a way of organizing data into smaller
chunks that can be transmitted more efficiently over a communication channel.

Synchronous Transmission

Synchronous transmission is a way in which data can be transmitted, it is sent in a constant stream at a
fixed rate. The receiver is synchronized with the sender so that it can detect the beginning and end of
each unit of data.

Asynchronous Transmission

Asynchronous transmission is another way in which data is transmitted, in this method each unit of data
is sent individually, with start and stop bits added to each unit to signal the beginning and end of
transmission. This method tends to be utilised in serial communication.

Error Detection

The process of identifying errors during data transmission is referred to as Error detection. Some
common error detection methods are checksums and cyclic redundancy checks (CRC)

Error Correction

The process of identifying and correcting errors during data transmission Error correction. Some
common methods of such include forward error correction (FEC) and automatic repeat request (ARQ)

Bandwidth Limitation

Bandwidth limitation describes the upmost sum of data that can be transferred over a communication
channel in the span of time. Factors such as the available bandwidth, signal-to-noise ratio, and
modulation scheme can affect Bandwidth limitation.

Bandwidth Noise

Bandwidth noise refers to the unauthorised signals that can interfere over a communication channel
during the transmission of data. This can include electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio
frequency interference (RFI).

Channel Types (e.g., Telephone, High Frequency (HF), Radio, Microwave, Satellite)
Distinct types of communication channels are used to transmit data over different distances and in
different environments. Some common channel types include telephone lines, high frequency (HF)
radio, microwave links, and satellite links. Bandwidth, Data Compression mentions allowing bandwidth
conservation and improving transmission speed.

Task 1c
Checksum - Cyclic redundancy check (CRC)

A checksum or cyclic redundancy check (CRC) is a method used to detect errors that may occur during
data transmission. It involves calculating the data being transmitted and generating a numerical value
sent along with the data. The recipient of the data can perform the same calculation and compare the
results with the transmitted value to detect any errors in transmission. CRC is commonly used in
communication protocols such as Ethernet and Wi-Fi to make sure that the data is transmitted without
any errors.

Encapsulation - frames, packets, datagrams

Encapsulation refers to the process of imputing headers and trailers to data as it is transferred through a
network. In networking, data is divided into smaller units called frames, packets, or datagrams
depending on the network protocol being used. Information such as the source and terminus address as
well as a trailer that includes error detection and correction information is present in each unit.

Addresses

Addresses are utilised to figure put the source and the destination of transmission of data through a
network. In networking, addresses can refer to physical addresses (such as a MAC address) or logical
addresses (such as an IP address). When data is travelling across a network, it is important that the
source and destination addresses are correctly identified so that the data is sent to the correct location.

Sequence numbers

Sequence numbers will keep track of the order in which data is transmitted across a network. When
data is divided into smaller units such as frames or packets, it is possible for these units to arrive out of
order at the destination. By assigning sequence numbers to each unit, the recipient can reassemble the
data in the correct order, ensuring that the data is complete and accurate. Sequence numbers are
commonly used in transport layer protocols such as TCP to ensure reliable data transmission.

Task 2
Simplex

Simplex communication is a method of communication in which data is transmitted in only one route. In
this method the sender sends data to the receiver, but the receiver cannot send any data back to the
sender. Examples of simple communication include television broadcasting and one-way radio
transmissions.

Duplex
Duplex communication is a type of communication in which data simultaneously is transmitted in both
directions. Here both the sender and the receiver can send and receive data at the same time. Instances
of such of include telephone conversations and two-way radio transmissions.

Half-duplex communication

In half-duplex communication, the sender must wait for the receiver to finalize the transmitting data
before sending their own data. Instances where half-duplex communication is used include walkie-
talkies and some types of computer networks.

Parallel

Parallel communication is a type of communication in which multiple bits of data are transmitted at the
same time over multiple wires or channels. Parallel communication is typically faster than serial
communication but requires more wires and is more susceptible to interference. Examples of parallel
communication include the parallel port on a computer and the internal buses used in a computer
motherboard.

Universal serial bus

Universal Serial Bus (USB) is a type of serial communication used to connect devices such as printers,
cameras, and keyboards to a computer. USB is a standardized interface and is designed to be plug-and-
play, meaning that devices can be connected and disconnected without the need to restart the
computer.

Serial

Serial communication is a type of communication in which data is transmitted one at a time over one
wire. Serial communication is usually significantly slower than parallel communication however it needs
less wires and is less susceptible to interference. Instances of serial communication include RS-232 and
USB.

Infrared

Data is transmitted using infrared light waves. Infrared communication is typically used for short
distance communication and requires line-of-sight between the transmitter and receiver. Examples of
infrared communication include remote controls and wireless headphones.

Bluetooth

Bluetooth is a type of wireless communication that connect devices like smartphones, laptops, as well as
headphones. Bluetooth is also designed for short-range communication. It is a standardized interface
and is designed to be low-power, meaning that it can be used in battery-powered devices.

Coaxial

High-frequency signals such as those used in television and internet connections are transmitted via
Coaxial cable. Coaxial cable is made of a copper wire surrounded by insulation, a woven shield, and an
outer jacket. Such shield helps to protect the signal from interference.

Optical fibre
Lastly Optical fibre is a type of cable that utilizes light waves for the transmission of data. Optical fibre is
typically used for high-speed and long-distance communication such as internet backbones as well as
cable television. Optical fibre is less susceptible to interference than copper cables and the transmission
of data can happen over long distances.

Unshielded twisted pair (UTP)

Unshielded twisted pair (UTP) cable is a type of cable used to transmit data over short distances in
computer networks. UTP cable consists of four pairs of twisted wires that are not shielded by any
external material. UTP cable is quite reasonable priced and is also easy to install however it is
susceptible to interference.

Shielded twisted pair (STP)

Shielded twisted pair (STP) cable is a type of cable used to the transmission of data over short distances
in computer networks. STP cable consists of four pairs of twisted wires that are shielded by an external

Task 3
Transmission methods are chosen in certain situations depending on factors such as data rate
requirements, distance, reliability, cost, availability, security, and environmental conditions. Instances of
the transmission methods used:

 Simplex: this is used in situations where data is only required to be transmitted one way and
feedback is not required. Examples include television broadcasting, public address systems, and
one-way radio transmissions.
 Duplex: This used in situations where data needs to be transmitted in both ways at the same
instance. Examples include telephone conversations, video conferencing, and two-way radio
transmissions.
 Half-duplex communication: is used in situations where data needs to be transmitted in both
directions, however not at the same time. Examples include walkie-talkies, some types of
computer networks, and CB radio.
 Parallel: Parallel communication is used in situations where high data rates are required over
short distances. Examples include internal buses in a computer and connecting devices to a
printer.
 Universal serial bus: USB is used in situations where connecting devices to a computer requires
a standardized, plug-and-play interface. Examples include connecting a keyboard, mouse,
printer, or camera to a computer.
 Serial: Serial communication is used in situations where data is transmitted one bit at a time
over a single wire or channel, and lower data rates are acceptable. Examples include RS-232,
USB, and Bluetooth.
 Infrared: is used in situations where short-range communication is needed and line-of-sight
between the transmitter and receiver is necessary. Examples include remote controls, wireless
headphones, and some types of mobile payments.
 Bluetooth: Bluetooth is used in situations where wireless communication between devices is
required, and short-range communication is acceptable. Examples include connecting a
smartphone to a headset, laptop, or car stereo.
  Coaxial: Coaxial cable is used in situations where high-frequency signals need to be transmitted
over long distances. Examples include cable television and internet connections.
 Optical fibre: Optical fibre is utilised in instances where faster and longer distance
communication without interference is in need. Examples include internet backbones, long-
distance telephone connections, and cable television networks.
 Unshielded twisted pair (UTP): UTP is used in situations where low-cost, short-distance
communication is required, and a moderate level of interference is acceptable. Examples
include connecting devices to a home network.
 Shielded twisted pair (STP): STP is used in situations where a higher level of interference
protection is required than UTP. Examples include industrial control systems, and some types of
data centre networks.

Task 4
There are various methods of data transmission used in computer networks, each with its own strengths
and weaknesses. The most used models for networking are the OSI (Open Systems Interconnection)
model and the TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol) model.
Wired transmission methods:

Ethernet: Ethernet is the most widely used local area network (LAN) technology today. It is fast, reliable,
and easy to use. Ethernet is based on the IEEE 802.3 standard and operates at speeds ranging from 10
Mbps to 10 Gbps. It is a reliable and cost-effective method for transmitting data within a LAN. An
advantage of ethernet is that it has extremely low latency, making it perfect for activities such as gaming
and video conferencing. Ethernet is also a lot cheaper than other alternatives, making it perfect for
businesses. One downside however is that Ethernet has limited scalability, which means it may not be
suitable for large-scale networks.

Fiber Optic: Fiber Optic uses glass and plastic fibres to transmit data it is a wired technology. It is
extremely fast and reliable, making it ideal for long-distance transmissions. However, it is more
expensive than Ethernet and requires specialized equipment to install and maintain.
Wireless transmission methods:

Wi-Fi: Radio waves are utilised by Wi-Fi to transmit data. It is quite convenient and easy to use, which is
why it is popular for home and office use. However, Wi-Fi is susceptible to interference from other
devices, and it also has a limited range and can be far slower than wired technologies.

Bluetooth: It is ideal for connecting devices such as smartphones, headphones, and speakers to each
other as it uses shot range radio waves to establish transmission. In contrary Bluetooth has limited range
and speed, rendering it useless for large-scale data transmissions like from city to another.
Cellular transmission methods:

3G/4G/5G: Cellular technologies use radio waves to transmit data over a cellular network. They are
ideal for mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets. Where wired or wireless connections are not
available, they are also useful. However, at times and depending on someone current location cellular
technologies can be slower and less reliable than wired technologies and can be more expensive for
large-scale data transmissions.
The OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) model

1. Physical layer: This layer covers the physical transmission of data. Ethernet and Fiber Optic
operate within this layer.
2. Data link layer: This layer oversees the concise transmission of data between two devices.
Transmission methods such as Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth operate at this layer.
3. Network layer: This layer is concerned with the routing of data between devices in a network.
Cellular technologies operate here.

The TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol) model

1. Link layer: This layer is covering the transmission of data in between two devices. Ethernet, Wi-
Fi, and Bluetooth operate at this layer.
2. Internet layer: This layer is concerned with the routing of data between devices in a network.
Cellular technologies operate at this layer.

References:
1. https://www.guru99.com/tcp-ip-model.html (15/3/2023)
2. https://www.imperva.com/learn/application-security/osi-model/ (15/3/2023)
3. https://www.fiberoptics4sale.com/blogs/archive-posts/95042950-what-is-synchronous-
transmission-and-asynchronous-transmission (15/3/2023)
4. https://www.easytechjunkie.com/what-is-a-bandwidth-limit.htm (15/3/2023)
5. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cyclic_redundancy_check (15/3/2023)
6. https://www.geeksforgeeks.org/difference-between-simplex-half-duplex-and-full-duplex-
transmission-modes/ (15/3/2023)
7. https://www.tutorialspoint.com/what-is-parallel-transmission-in-computer-network
(15/3/2023)
8. https://www.techtarget.com/searchnetworking/definition/coaxial-cable-illustrated (15/3/2023)
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