Introduction to Data Communications
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11g. Basic Components

Source: It is the transmitter of data. Examples are:

• Terminal,
• Computer,
• Mainframe

Medium: The communications stream through which the data is being transmitted. Examples are:

• Cabling,
• Microwave,
• Fibre optics,
• Radio Frequencies (RF),
• Infrared Wireless

Receiver: The receiver of the data transmitted. Examples are:

• Printer,
• Terminal,
• Mainframe,
• Computer,

DCE: The interface between the Source & the Medium, and the Medium & the Receiver is called the DCE (Data Communication Equipment) and is a physical piece of equipment.

DTE: Data Terminal Equipment is the Telecommunication name given to the Source and Receiver's equipment.

Introduction to Data Communications
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