| Aim of Module | To enable students to successfully configure serial communications links and a Local Area Network (LAN), and extend their knowledge of communications networks. |
| Credits | 7 |
| Knowledge Assumed From | DC500 (DC100) Data Communications |
| Student Learning hours | 70 |
| Content Revised | 2000 |
| Prescription Expiry Date | Nov 2007 |
| Topics | Highest Skill Level | Suggested Assessment Percentage | |
| 1 Serial Communications | A | 40 | |
| 2 Local Area Networks | A | 40 | |
| 3 Communications Networks | C | 20 | |
| 100 | |||
| LEARNING OUTCOMES The Student Will | ||
| A | 1 | Describe the requirements for serial communications and, using the ITU-T V.24/V.28 (EIA232) interface, demonstrate an ability to successfully configure serial communications links. |
| A | 2 | Describe LAN characteristics and operating principles, the elements necessary for configuring a LAN system and, using a systematic approach, demonstrate an ability to successfully connect and activate a LAN. |
| C | 3 | Describe the various types of public and private communications networks available for data communications. |
| 1 | Serial Communications |
| > | A description of serial communications will include references to ITU-T Recommendations V.24/V.28, X.21 and X.21bis). | |
| > | Successfully configuring serial communications links will include: | |
| - | the use of both 9 and 25 pin D connectors | |
| - | the use of a Null modem (may be configured using a breakout box) | |
| - | the use of a terminal emulation program to exchange messages between PCs at various baud rates and to transfer files using a standard protocol; e.g. Kermit, Z-Modem or X-Modem | |
| - | transfer of a text file from a PC to a terminal, or printer | |
| - | logging onto a host computer (via a modem, if suitable facilities are available) | |
| 2 | Local Area Networks |
| > | LAN characteristics and operating principles will include: | |
| - | comparing the ISO OSI 7 layer model and the IEEE 802 layers | |
| - | describing topologies (bus, ring, star), transmission media, and medium access control protocols (Command response, interrupt, CSMA/CD and Token Passing | |
| - | the interconnection of networks using bridges, switches, routers and gateways | |
| - | an introduction to TCP/IP | |
| > | Successfully connecting and activating a LAN will include: | |
| - | connecting (cabling) the devices (nodes) | |
| - | configuring and testing the network interface card (NIC) | |
| - | installing, configuring and using network software | |
| - | identifying and rectifying associated problems | |
| 3 | Communications Networks |
| > | A description of networks will include the PSTN, DDN, PSN, Frame Relay, ATM, and the ISDN, how these networks may be structured (multiplexed) and how they may follow a layered approach. | |