Guided media, also known as bounded media or wired media, refers to the physical pathways or channels that are used to transmit signals from one point to another in a communication network. Unlike wireless or unguided media, guided media rely on physical cables or wires to guide the signals along a predetermined path.
Types of guided media
There are several types of guided media commonly used in communication networks:
Twisted Pair:
Twisted pair cables consist of two insulated copper wires twisted together to reduce electromagnetic interference. They are widely used in Ethernet networks for short to medium-distance communication.
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Coaxial Cable:
Coaxial cables have a central conductor surrounded by an insulating layer, a metallic shield, and an outer insulating layer. They are commonly used for cable television (CATV), broadband internet, and other applications that require high-frequency transmission over longer distances.
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Fiber Optic Cable:
Fiber optic cables use thin strands of glass or plastic fibers to transmit data as pulses of light. They offer high bandwidth, low signal attenuation, and immunity to electromagnetic interference. Fiber optic cables are used for long-distance communication, such as in long-haul telecommunications networks and high-speed internet connections.
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https://computerstudynow.blogspot.com/2023/05/fiber-optic-cable.html
Waveguides:
Waveguides are hollow metallic tubes or channels that guide electromagnetic waves, typically in the microwave or radio frequency range. They are commonly used in radar systems, satellite communication, and microwave point-to-point links.
Advantages:
Guided media provide reliable and secure transmission of signals since they are less susceptible to external interference compared to wireless media. They also offer better signal quality and can support higher bandwidths, making them suitable for applications that require fast and efficient data transmission.
Limitations:
However, guided media have some limitations. They require physical cables or wires, which can be expensive to install and maintain, and they have distance limitations depending on the type of cable. Additionally, guided media are susceptible to damage from environmental factors such as moisture, temperature, and physical disturbances.
Overall, guided media play a crucial role in communication networks by providing a dependable and controlled pathway for signal transmission.
