Networking Products
1. Switches
Switches are critical components in a network that connect multiple devices, such as computers, printers, and servers, on the same network within a building or campus. They use packet switching to forward data to the destination device.
Types of Switches:
- Unmanaged Switches: Basic plug-and-play devices without configuration options. Suitable for small networks.
- Managed Switches: Offer advanced features like VLANs, SNMP, and QoS. Ideal for larger networks requiring more control and security.
- Layer 3 Switches: Combine switching and routing capabilities, allowing inter-VLAN routing and greater network efficiency.
Key Features:
- Port count (8, 16, 24, 48 ports, etc.).
- Support for Gigabit or 10 Gigabit Ethernet.
- PoE capabilities to power devices like IP cameras and VoIP phones.
- Advanced management features (for managed switches).
2. Power over Ethernet (PoE) Devices
PoE Devices deliver electrical power over Ethernet cables to powered devices (PDs) such as IP cameras, wireless access points, and VoIP phones. This eliminates the need for separate power supplies and reduces installation complexity.
Types of PoE:
- PoE (IEEE 802.3af): Provides up to 15.4W per port.
- PoE+ (IEEE 802.3at): Provides up to 30W per port.
- PoE++ (IEEE 802.3bt): Provides up to 60W or 100W per port, supporting more power-hungry devices.
Key Features:
- Power output per port.
- Total power budget.
- Compatibility with PoE, PoE+, and PoE++ standards.
- Integration with network switches or as standalone injectors.
3. Switch Mode Power Supply (SMPS) Units
SMPS Units are used to convert electrical power efficiently, providing the necessary DC voltage to network devices. They are preferred for their efficiency and compact size compared to linear power supplies.
Key Features:
- Input voltage range (typically AC 110-240V).
- Output voltage (commonly 5V, 12V, 24V, etc.).
- Power rating (measured in watts).
- Efficiency rating and thermal management features.
4. Connectors
Connectors are essential for establishing reliable physical connections between networking devices. They come in various types tailored for specific cable types and applications.
Common Types of Connectors:
- RJ45: Used for Ethernet cables (Cat5e, Cat6, Cat7).
- LC, SC, ST: Used for fiber optic cables.
- BNC: Used for coaxial cables in older networking and video applications.
Key Features:
- Durability and material quality.
- Compatibility with cable types.
- Ease of installation (e.g., crimp connectors vs. field-terminated connectors).
5. Cables
Cables are the physical medium through which data is transmitted in a network. Different types of cables are used based on the requirements for speed, distance, and environment.
Types of Cables:
- Twisted Pair Cables (Ethernet): Includes Cat5e, Cat6, Cat6a, Cat7, and Cat8, varying in terms of speed (up to 40Gbps) and distance.
- Fiber Optic Cables: Used for long-distance, high-speed data transmission. Types include single-mode (SMF) and multi-mode (MMF) fibers.
- Coaxial Cables: Used in older Ethernet networks (10BASE2, 10BASE5) and for cable internet connections.
Key Features:
- Bandwidth and speed capabilities.
- Maximum transmission distance.
- Shielding (UTP vs. STP) for electromagnetic interference protection.
- Cable flexibility and durability for different installation environments.