Computer Networks, unit: The Physical Layer. Core concepts, terminology, and worked-example cues a college student meets for this unit, building on prior units without repeating them. Front: a term, concept, or short problem cue. Back: the definition, explanation, or answer.
38 cards · basic cards · AI-written, checked twice. Edit anything.
- What is the Physical layer responsible for transmitting?
Show answer
Raw bits as electrical, optical, or radio signals- What is a transmission medium?
Show answer
The physical path data travels through, such as cable or air- What is twisted pair cable?
Show answer
A common wired transmission medium using pairs of twisted copper wires to reduce interference- What is coaxial cable?
Show answer
A cable with a central conductor and shielding, historically used for cable TV and early networks- What is fiber optic cable?
Show answer
A transmission medium using light pulses through glass or plastic fibers for high-speed data transfer- What is a key advantage of fiber optic cable over copper?
Show answer
Much higher bandwidth and immunity to electromagnetic interference- What is bandwidth, at the Physical layer?
Show answer
The range of frequencies (or maximum data rate) a medium can carry- What is analog signaling?
Show answer
Representing data as continuously varying wave signals- What is digital signaling?
Show answer
Representing data as discrete binary values (0s and 1s)- What is modulation?
Show answer
Encoding digital data onto an analog carrier signal for transmission- What is attenuation?
Show answer
The weakening of a signal as it travels over distance- What is a repeater?
Show answer
A device that regenerates a weakened signal to extend transmission distance- What is a hub, as a Physical layer device?
Show answer
A simple device that broadcasts incoming data to all connected devices- What is electromagnetic interference (EMI)?
Show answer
Unwanted electrical noise that can disrupt signal transmission- What is full-duplex communication?
Show answer
Data can be transmitted and received simultaneously in both directions
FlashKeepers