Network transceivers, short for transmitter-receiver, are devices that both transmit and receive analog or digital signals. The term is used most frequently to describe the component in a local-area network (LAN) that actually applies signals onto the network wire and also detects signals passing through the same wire. For many LANs, the transceiver is built directly into the network interface card (NIC). Some types of networks, however, require an external transceiver.
Network transceivers are available in three main configurations: chip, board, or module style. Chip style network transceivers are the smallest type. They can easily be inserted into or removed from a network system. Board style devices are built directly into a network board or card. Module transceivers are external to the network, and are installed and function similarly to other computer peripherals, or they may function as stand-alone devices.
Network transceivers, short for transmitter-receiver, are devices that both transmit and receive analog or digital signals. The term is used most frequently to describe the component in a local-area network (LAN) that actually applies signals onto the network wire and also detects signals passing through the same wire. For many LANs, the transceiver is built directly into the network interface card (NIC). Some types of networks, however, require an external transceiver.
Network transceivers are available in three main configurations: chip, board, or module style. Chip style network transceivers are the smallest type. They can easily be inserted into or removed from a network system. Board style devices are built directly into a network board or card. Module transceivers are external to the network, and are installed and function similarly to other computer peripherals, or they may function as stand-alone devices.
Network transceivers are designed to function within a specific network protocol. These protocols are the fundamental rules for network communication. They specify the software attributes of data communications, including the structure of a packet and the information contained in it. Protocols may also prescribe all or some of the operational characteristics of the hardware on which they will run. Popular network protocols for use with network transceivers include AppleTalk®, CANbus, ControlNet, DeviceNet, Ethernet (many configurations), Fibre Channel, FDDI, Fieldbus, Frame Relay, INTERBUS, PROFIBUS, and xDSL.
Important specifications to consider when purchasing network transceivers include the number of ports or channels through which it can connect to networks, and associated peripherals; the types of connection ports available; and whether it has full duplex capabilities. For network transceivers, full duplex refers to the ability of a device to transmit data simultaneously in both directions along the network wire.
