Transmission Media

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Definition

Pathway through which individual systems are connected to route data signals in a network.

Description

• Transmission media makes it possible to transmit electronic signals from one computer to another
• These signals are nothing but binary pulses.
• Each type of transmission media varies in its characteristics, that makes it suitable for a specific type of service.

Types

Guided transmission media:

Consists of physical connection between source and destination via a wire or a cable. These connections are bounded to a channel to follow. There are three basic types of guided media :

• Twisted pair cable
• Co-axial cable
• Fiber-optic cable

Unguided transmission media:

No physical connection between source and destination, instead they use air itself. These connections are not bounded to a channel to follow. There are two basic types of primary technologies used.

Microwaves:

• Travels in straight lines and therefore narrowly focused concentrating all the energy into a beam.
• Periodic repeaters are necessary for long distances.
• For transmitting and receiving, antennas should be aligned accurately.
• Can not penetrate through buildings.
• Best example is Bluetooth technology.

Satellite:

• Uses microwave radio to prevent from atmosphere and act as microwave relay station.
• They are situated in space 22,000 miles above the equator.
• It appears stationary from the earth as it rotates with specific speed.
• They can amplify and relay microwave signals from one transmitter on the ground to another.
• Capable of receiving, relaying of voice, data, and TV signals.
• Bad weather can affect the communication.

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