Operating a Computer System
Communication Devices
A communication device is any type of hardware capable of transmitting data, instructions and information between a sending device (initiates instruction to transmit data) and a receiving device (accepts the transmission).
Modems
The term modem is a shortened form of the terms modulation and demodulation, these are the primary processes performed by all modems. Today most modems are used to connect a computer to a local Internet Service Provider (ISP).
Ethernet
Ethernet is an array of networking technologies and systems used in local area networks (LAN), where computers are connected within a primary physical space. A standard Ethernet cable is slightly thicker than a phone cable and has an RJ45 connector on each end. Ethernet ports look similar to telephone jacks, but are slightly wider. You can plug or unplug devices on an Ethernet network while they are powered on without harming them.While Ethernet is still the standard for wired networking, it has been replaced in many areas by wireless networks. Wi-Fi allows you to connect your laptop or smartphone to a network without being tethered to the wall by a cable.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth is a standard for short-range wireless communication and data synchronisation. This standard was developed by a group of electronics manufacturers including: Ericsson, IBM, Intel, Nokia, and Toshiba. It is overseen by the Bluetooth Special Interest Group. Bluetooth, which has a range of only 10 meters, also works in the 2.4GHz frequency range, transfers data at up to 3Mbps, is easy to configure and is considered a viable option for short-range connections. Bluetooth transmissions are encrypted. See: http://goo.gl/blv5l
Wireless
In this technology, the information can be transmitted through the air without requiring any cable or wires or other electronic conductors, by using electromagnetic waves. In the present days, the wireless communication technology refers to a variety of wireless communication devices and technologies ranging from smart phones to computers, tabs, laptops, Bluetooth Technology, printers.
Infra-red
A method of communicating data wirelessly, often associated with television remote controls. On desktop and notebook computers, infrared is used by wireless keyboards, mice, and printers. On notebooks, an infrared receiver is often used for communication between the notebook and a PDA (Personal Data Assistant). Infrared wireless is becoming obsolete (in computing technology) because of the line of sight issue: There must be an unobstructed ‘view’ between the infrared device and the receiver. Short-range radio technology such as Bluetooth is becoming the most popular way to connect wireless I/O devices to a nearby computer, because with radio waves, there is no line-of-sight issue.
Firewire
FireWire is a method of transferring information between digital devices, especially audio and video equipment. FireWire is considered a high-speed interface, and therefore can be used for connecting peripheral devices that require fast data transfer speeds.While FireWire has never been as popular as USB, it has remained a popular choice for audio and video professionals.
USB
Stands for "Universal Serial Bus." USB is the most common type of computer port used in today's computers. It can be used to connect keyboards, mice, game controllers, printers, scanners, digital cameras, and removable media drives, just to name a few.
Activity: Communication Devices
❏ Create a collage with images of the different communication devices listed above. Label each image.
❏ Describe which communication methods are being used in your home. Do you have a
modem? A router? How often do you rely on a USB port?
❏ Which kind of communication method does AirDrop utilise?
Submit your collage and responses on Google Classroom.
❏ Describe which communication methods are being used in your home. Do you have a
modem? A router? How often do you rely on a USB port?
❏ Which kind of communication method does AirDrop utilise?
Submit your collage and responses on Google Classroom.