Bev Facey Community High

NET2040: Network Media & Devices

Students develop an understanding of different connectivity strategies for linking computers and other devices in a local area network (LAN). They acquire knowledge of industry standards for network cables and gain practical experience through installing cabling, connectors and other hardware components.

Complete Chapters 5 - 6 in IT Essentials on Cisco Networking Academy.

Practice

  1. Crimp an RJ45 end
  2. Demonstrate the use of network cable test equipment
  3. Draw and build a small ethernet network

Theory Concepts (optional)

  1. identify and describe the characteristics, standard names and applications for common network media and connectors
    1. identify and describe the structural components and uses of major types of network cables including:
      1. coaxial; e.g., thick, thin
      2. twisted pair; e.g., unshielded, shielded
      3. fibre optic
    2. identify and describe the characteristics and uses of common media connectors including:
      1. registered jack 11 (RJ-11)
      2. registered jack 45 (RJ-45)
      3. attachment unit interface (AUI)
      4. British naval connector (BNC)
      5. small computer system interface (SCSI)
      6. single mode fibre optic connector; e.g., SC-type, ST-type
    3. identify Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) standards for Ethernet cabling including:
      1. bandwidth/speed
      2. transmission mode
      3. maximum segment length
      4. cable type
    4. identify and describe categories for unshielded twisted pair cable defined by the Electronics Industries Alliance and the Telecommunications Industry Association
    5. describe the media and function of network backbones and segments
    6. explain the relationship between media type, connector and topology in a network environment
    7. choose an appropriate cable type and connector to add a client, given a practical network scenario
  2. identify and explain the purpose, features and basic operation of network hardware components
    1. explain the purpose of hardware components in:
      1. connecting network devices
      2. boosting data signals
      3. determining data flow
    2. demonstrate an understanding of the features, functionality and performance of basic hardware components including:
      1. network interface card (NIC)
      2. hub
      3. repeater
      4. switch
      5. bridge
      6. router
      7. gateway
      8. wireless access point
      9. modem 1.0 new network technologies
    3. describe the features and functionality of power fault-tolerance hardware including:
      1. surge suppressor
      2. power line conditioner
      3. uninterruptible power supply
    4. choose an appropriate hardware component to use or replace an existing device, given a practical network scenario
    5. physically install a NIC and verify that the NIC is operational including:
      1. Ethernet
      2. Bluetooth
      3. wireless
      4. new technologies
  3. demonstrate knowledge of cabling tools and procedures
    1. demonstrate correct use of cabling tools including:
      1. wire crimper
      2. punch down tool
    2. demonstrate appropriate use of basic test equipment including:
      1. media testers/certifiers
      2. crossover cable
      3. tone generator and probe; e.g., fox and hound
      4. optical testers
    3. demonstrate the proper sequence of steps to crimp and test Ethernet cable
    4. select the appropriate cabling tool and test equipment, given a practical cabling task
  4. demonstrate ability to install network cabling, connectors and hardware components
    1. demonstrate procedures for the compliant installation of:
      1. jacks and outlets
      2. cable and structured cable runs
      3. patch panels and patch cords
      4. network cards
      5. wired or wireless connections
    2. demonstrate appropriate use of test equipment in checking for:
      1. continuity
      2. proper grounding
      3. correct cable termination
    3. create a proposal for a new or refit cabling project
    4. design, build and troubleshoot a small Ethernet network at the physical layer

Throughout the course you will also be evaluated on your basic competencies such as your ability to:

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