Introduction to Data Communications
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39. Repeaters

Repeaters are physical hardware devices that have a primary function to regenerate the electrical signal by:

39a. Purpose of a Repeater

The purpose of a repeater is to extend the LAN Segment beyond its physical limits as defined by the Physical Layer's Standards (e.g. Ethernet is 500m for 10Base5). A LAN Segment is a logical path such as the logical bus used by all 802.3 Ethernet types. A LAN Segment is given an identification number called a Segment Number or Network Number to differentiate it from other segments.

Typically, repeaters are used to connect 2 physically close buildings together that are too far apart to just extend the segment. Can be used to connect floors of a building together that would surpass the maximum allowable segment length. Note: for large extensions as in the above example, 2 Repeaters are required. For shorter extensions, only 1 Repeater may be required.

Introduction to Data Communications
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