This reference model divides the functions of a data network into 7 distinctive parts.
OSI
This OSI layer provides the means to transport the bits that make up a data link layer frame across the network media. This layer accepts a complete frame from the data link layer and encodes it as a series of signals that are transmitted onto the local media. The encoded bits that comprise a frame are received by either an end device or an intermediate device.
physical
Whether connecting to a local printer in the home or a web site in another country, this must be established before any network communications can occur.
physical connection
Data transfer is usually discussed in terms of these two items.
bandwidth and throughput
This functional area of the physical layer standards address the electronic hardware devices, media, and other connectors that transmit and carry the signals to represent the bits.
Physical Components
The functions of a data network are divided into seven of these. Each works with the ones above and below to transmit data.
layers
A form of network media where signals are patterns of electrical pulses.
Copper cable
Type of setup, for example, in many corporate offices employees have desktop or laptop computers that are physically connected, via cable, to a shared switch. Data is transmitted through a physical cable.
wired network
This is the capacity of a medium to carry data. It measures the amount of data that can flow from one place to another in a given amount of time. The maximum amount of data that can travel through a 'channel'.
Bandwidth
This functional area of the physical layer standards address the method of converting a stream of data bits into a predefined "code”. Codes are groupings of bits used to provide a predictable pattern that can be recognized by both the sender and the receiver. In other words, *this* is the method or pattern used to represent digital information.
Encoding
On the sending device, it is the role of this layer to prepare data for transmission and control how that data accesses the physical media.
the data link layer
A form of network media where signals are patterns of light.
Fiber-optic cable
Many businesses offer connections for laptops, tablets, and smartphones where data is transmitted using radio waves.
wireless
Two factors determine the practical bandwidth of a network . . .
The properties of the physical media
AND
The technologies chosen for signaling and detecting network signals
This functional area of the physical layer standards address the generation of the electrical, optical, or wireless signals that represent the "1" and "0" on the media.
Signaling
On the sending device, this layer controls how the data is transmitted onto the physical media by encoding the binary digits that represent data into signals.
the physical layer
A form of network media where signals are patterns of microwave transmissions.
Wireless
To offer wireless capability, devices on a wireless network must be connected to this.
a wireless access point (AP)
The measure of the transfer of bits across the media over a given period of time. How much data actually does travel through the 'channel' successfully.
Throughput
This signaling method uses a series of on-off tones, lights, or clicks to send text over telephone wires or between ships at sea.
Morse code
Communication within the same network is done _________.
immediately
The physical layer consists of electronic circuitry, media, and connectors developed by engineers. Therefore, it is appropriate that these, that govern this hardware are defined by the relevant electrical and communications engineering organizations.
the standards
These, found inside computers and end-user devices, connect the device to the network. An end-user device may include one or both types of these.
Network Interface Cards (NICs)
Refers to the amount of time, to include delays, for data to travel from one given point to another. It's the amount of time it takes to travel through the tube.
Latency
There are many ways to transmit signals. A common method to send data uses a process by which the characteristic of one wave (the signal) modifies another wave (the carrier).
modulation