Components of telecommunications network

All telecommunication networks are made up of five basic components that are present in each network environment regardless of type or use. These basic components include terminals, telecommunications processors, telecommunications channels, computers, and telecommunications control software.

Terminals are the starting and stopping points in any telecommunication network environment. Any input or output device that is used to transmit or receive data can be classified as a terminal component.
Telecommunications processors support data transmission and reception between terminals and computers by providing a variety of control and support functions. (i.e. convert data from digital to analog and back)
Telecommunications channels are the way by which data is transmitted and received. Telecommunication channels are created through a variety of media of which the most popular include copper wires and coaxial cables (structured cabling). Fiber-optic cables are increasingly used to bring faster and more robust connections to businesses and homes.
In a telecommunication environment computers are connected through media to perform their communication assignments.
Telecommunications control software is present on all networked computers and is responsible for controlling network activities and functionality.

Early networks were built without computers, but late in the 20th century their switching centers were computerized or the networks replaced with computer networks.

June 11, 2012

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