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Optical fibre cables are flexible and resistant to noise interference but are expensive to maintain.
They are used for high-speed data and voice connections.
Wireless Transmission Media
Wireless Transmission Media links two or more computers in a network where cables cannot be laid.
Common types of wireless transmission media are:
Microwaves
Microwaves are unidirectional and travel in a straight line. They
provide line-of-sight transmission, which means there should
not be any obstruction between the transmitter and receiver.
They are used for transmitting radio and television signals and
long-distance communications. Microwaves are insecure and Transmitter Receiver
prone to the influence of weather conditions.
Radio Waves
Radio waves are omnidirectional and travel long distances in all directions
from the source. Antennas are used to transmit and receive radio signals.
They can penetrate buildings easily and are widely used for indoor and
outdoor communication. Radio waves are prone to interference from various
electrical equipment like motors.
Satellite Communication
Satellite communication involves a network of satellites all around the globe
that can receive and transmit signals using microwaves from one point to
another. Earth stations are the points on Earth to which the signals are sent
or where they are generated. A single satellite can cover a large number of
earth stations.
Satellite communication is fast, reliable, and accurate. It is free from interference and can carry a large
number of signals at the same time. Satellite communication is used for voice, data, fax, video, cellular
phone, and e-mail services. The only limitation is that it is expensive to implement and maintain.
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi is a wireless technology that uses radio waves to transmit and
receive data. A computer’s wireless adapter translates data into a radio
signal and transmits it. The device receiving the signal decodes it and
converts it into data. Wi-Fi technology is commonly used in PANs and
LANs and provides wireless connectivity to Internet networks.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth is a wireless technology used for exchanging data over short
distances (approximately 10 metre). This technology also uses radio waves
to communicate between devices. Bluetooth technology is typically used to
transfer pictures, songs, and data files between smartphones, laptops, and
tablets.
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