Why are Repeaters needed?
Here are some of the reasons why repeaters are needed.
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Repeaters are used to amplify the signal and transmit it at a higher power level.
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It acts as a bridge between different network standards.
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It helps in increasing network coverage by connecting various network segments.
- It increases the distance networks can travel over a network cable.
Also see, Personal Area Network
Features of Repeaters in Computer Network
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It strengthens the system signals by transmitting signals to the weaker locations.
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The Repeaters can continuously monitor the signals generated between the two LANs.
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Repeaters can help with networking flexibility.
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All of the Repeaters are linked together using an IP site connection network. Any problem in the repeater network can be quickly resolved by using that IP network.
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Repeaters do not necessitate any additional processing. The only time they need to be investigated is when performance suffers.
- Signals can be connected using various types of cables by using repeaters.
Working of Repeaters
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Signal Regeneration: Repeaters receive signals on one side, amplify them, and retransmit them on the other side, ensuring the signal remains strong and clear over long distances.
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Signal Correction: Repeaters can also correct errors or distortions in the transmitted signal, ensuring reliable data transmission.
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Distance Extension: Repeaters extend the range of communication networks by boosting signals, allowing data to travel farther without degradation.
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Network Connectivity: Repeaters facilitate network connectivity by bridging gaps between segments of a network, enabling seamless communication between distant devices.
Types of the Repeaters
On the Basis of the Types of Signals Generated
Digital repeaters:
Data is transmitted in the form of binary digits such as 0s and 1s. While transmitting data, 0 and 1 values are generated, and it can transmit data over long distances. This repeater is capable of retiming and resynchronizing.
Analog Repeaters:
Data is transmitted in the form of analog signals to increase the amplitude of the data. These repeaters are used in trunk lines to help broadcast multiple signals using frequency division multiplexing (FDM). It houses the linear amplifier as well as the filters.
On the Basis of Types of Network Connected
Wired Repeaters:
They are used in wired LANs.
For example OCRs
Optical communications Repeater:
Optical Communication Repeaters (OCRs) are devices that extend the range of signals carried by a fiber optic cable. Digital signals are transmitted as a short pulse of light through a fiber optic cable in this repeater. Photons are tiny particles of light that can be absorbed or scattered in the fiber.
On the other hand, optical amplifiers are designed for repeaters to amplify light without first converting it to an electric signal.
Wireless Repeaters:
They are used in wireless LANs and cellular networks.
For example telephone repeaters, and radio repeaters.
Telephone Repeater:
Long-distance communications are carried out over telephone networks. To increase the power, a transistor-based amplifier is maintained. This telephone network is a bidirectional communication system in which audio signals transmit data. These telephone services are primarily used in submarine communications. These telecommunication services were created in the early 1990s using a pair of analog signal wires.
Radio Repeater:
It is used to extend the range of radio signal coverage. A radio repeater is a device that consists of a radio transmitter and a radio receiver. The received signals are amplified and retransmitted frequently at different frequencies to provide coverage beyond the obstruction.
On the Basis of the Domain of LANs Connected
Local Repeaters:
They connect LAN segments separated by small distances.
Remote Repeaters:
They connect LANs that are far from each other.
Advantages of Repeaters in Computer Network
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The Repeater supports the signal strength.
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These Repeaters are both cheap and easy to use.
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The Repeaters have no impact on the network's performance.
- These Repeaters are capable of retransmitting data and boosting weak signals.
Disadvantages of Repeaters in Computer Network
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The number of collisions increases as the number of repeaters increases.
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Only a limited number of repeaters can be connected to it.
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We can't connect the different network architectures in repeaters.
The data traffic in the Repeaters cannot be reduced.
Also Read - Subnetting in Computer Networks
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the use of repeater and router?
Repeaters are used to amplify and retransmit signals in communication networks, extending their range and ensuring signal integrity over long distances. Routers, on the other hand, are used to forward data packets between different networks, enabling interconnection and efficient data routing.
What are the advantages of a repeater system?
A repeater system enhances communication by extending the range of signals, overcoming obstacles and signal degradation. It boosts coverage, ensures reliability, and improves the overall quality of wireless communication.
What is repeater signal?
A repeater signal is a retransmitted radio frequency signal used to extend the range and coverage of wireless communication systems. It amplifies and rebroadcasts signals to overcome obstacles and enhance communication.
Conclusion
This article discussed repeaters in computer networks, a powerful network hardware device that regenerates an incoming signal from the sender before retransmitting it to the receiver, along with their features, types, advantages, and disadvantages.
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