Computer Networks - Detailed Notes for RGPV Exam
1. Introduction to ISDN (Integrated Services Digital Network)
-------------------------------------------------------------
ISDN is a circuit-switched telephone network system designed to carry voice, video, data, and other
services over traditional telephone lines.
Features:
- Digital transmission over ordinary telephone copper wires
- Provides higher data rates than analog systems
- Supports multiple devices on a single line
ISDN Interfaces:
- BRI (Basic Rate Interface): 2B + D channels (2 × 64 kbps + 1 × 16 kbps) for homes/small offices
- PRI (Primary Rate Interface): 30B + D in Europe (30 × 64 kbps + 1 × 64 kbps) for large
organizations
Applications:
- Video conferencing
- Internet access
- Telephony services
- Remote control of industrial machines
2. HDLC (High-Level Data Link Control)
---------------------------------------
HDLC is a bit-oriented protocol used for transmitting data over point-to-point and multipoint links.
Key Features:
- Works at Data Link Layer (Layer 2)
- Provides error detection and correction
- Supports flow control and reliable delivery
HDLC Frame Format:
Flag | Address | Control | Data | FCS | Flag
- Flag: 01111110 (start/end of frame)
- Address: Identifies the receiver
- Control: Manages flow and sequencing
- Data: Actual payload
- FCS: Frame Check Sequence (error detection)
Modes:
- Normal Response Mode (NRM)
- Asynchronous Response Mode (ARM)
- Asynchronous Balanced Mode (ABM)
3. HUB
--------
A Hub is a basic networking device that connects multiple computers or network devices together in
a LAN.
Key Characteristics:
- Operates at Layer 1 (Physical Layer)
- No data filtering or routing
- Broadcasts data to all ports
- Also called a "multiport repeater"
Types:
- Active Hub: Amplifies signal before forwarding
- Passive Hub: Only connects wires, no amplification
- Intelligent Hub: Includes management features
Limitations:
- No traffic management
- Can cause network congestion
4. Jitter Control
------------------
Jitter refers to the variation in packet arrival time. It is especially important in real-time
communications like VoIP and video conferencing.
Causes of Jitter:
- Network congestion
- Route changes
- Variable queuing delays
- Hardware latency
Jitter Control Techniques:
1. Buffering: Receiver waits and stores data temporarily to smooth variations.
2. Traffic shaping: Sender sends packets at consistent intervals.
3. QoS (Quality of Service): Prioritizes time-sensitive traffic.
4. Packet scheduling: Ensures fair and timely delivery.
Impact:
- Poor jitter control can lead to choppy audio/video, lag, or packet loss.
(Additional detailed answers from prior responses can be appended here...)