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16 Marks Important Questions
16 Marks Important Questions
Module 1
What are the Standards Organizations used for Data Communications.
Standards organizations play a crucial role in the development and implementation of data communications technologies. These organizations
create and promote industry-wide standards that ensure interoperability, reliability, and security of data communication systems. Some of the
prominent standards organizations used for data communications include:
1. International Telecommunication Union (ITU): The ITU is a specialized United Nations agency that focuses on information and
communication technologies. It develops global standards for telecommunications, including data communication protocols, codecs, and
network interfaces.
2. Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE): The IEEE is a well-known professional organization that develops a wide range of
standards related to data communications, including Ethernet (IEEE 802.3), Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11), and Bluetooth (IEEE 802.15).
3. Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF): The IETF is an open international community of network designers, operators, vendors, and
researchers who work together to develop and promote voluntary Internet standards. It is responsible for defining protocols such as
TCP/IP, HTTP, and SMTP.
4. International Organization for Standardization (ISO): The ISO is an independent non-governmental organization that develops and
publishes international standards across various industries. For data communications, ISO has developed standards such as OSI (Open
Systems Interconnection) model and ISDN (Integrated Services Digital Network) protocols.
5. Telecommunication Standardization Sector of the ITU (ITU-T): ITU-T is a sector of ITU specifically focused on telecommunications
standardization. It develops recommendations related to data communications, such as those for data compression, multimedia
communication, and network management.
6. European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI): ETSI is an independent, not-for-profit organization that produces globally-
applicable standards for information and communications technologies, including data communication protocols used in GSM, LTE, and
other mobile networks.
7. World Wide Web Consortium (W3C): The W3C is an international community that develops open standards to ensure the long-term
growth of the Web. It is responsible for the development and maintenance of protocols like HTML, XML, and various web-related
standards.
8. Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG): The Bluetooth SIG is responsible for the development and promotion of Bluetooth wireless
technology, a widely used standard for short-range data communications between devices.
a. Modularity: Each layer operates independently and performs a specific set of functions, which makes the system easier to design, implement, and
maintain. Changes or updates in one layer typically do not affect other layers.
b. Abstraction: Each layer provides services to the layer above it while hiding the implementation details from higher layers. This abstraction
simplifies the overall system and allows different layers to work together with a well-defined interface.
c. Interoperability: By adhering to standardized protocols and interfaces, different systems and devices can communicate with each other seamlessly,
as long as they follow the same layered architecture.
d. Hierarchical Structure: The layers are organized in a strict hierarchy, with each layer depending on the services provided by the layer immediately
below it. This structure makes troubleshooting and understanding the system's functionality more manageable.
e. Encapsulation: Data is encapsulated at each layer by adding protocol-specific headers and/or trailers to the data. This encapsulation helps in
routing and identifying the data as it traverses through the layers.
f. Flexibility and Scalability: New technologies and functionalities can be introduced at specific layers without affecting the entire system, making the
architecture adaptable and scalable.
g. Efficient Development: Layered architecture allows different groups to work on specific layers independently, promoting parallel development and
speeding up the overall process
3. With a neat diagram explain the OSI reference model in detail? Explain the functions
performed in each layer.
OSI Reference Model:
The OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) reference model is a conceptual framework that standardizes the functions of a telecommunication or
computing system into seven distinct layers. Each layer represents a specific set of functions, and data communication between systems adhering to
the OSI model happens through a vertical, sequential flow. Here's a brief explanation of each layer, along with a diagram:
Layer 7: Application Layer
Functions: Provides services directly to end-users or applications. It enables network access to resources and supports various application-level
protocols, such as HTTP, SMTP, and FTP.
Example Protocols: HTTP, SMTP, FTP
Layer 6: Presentation Layer
Functions: Ensures data format compatibility between different systems. It is responsible for data encryption, compression, and translation.
Example Functions: Encryption, Compression
Layer 5: Session Layer
Functions: Manages sessions or connections between applications. It establishes, maintains, and terminates communication sessions.
Example Functions: Session management, Dialog control
Layer 4: Transport Layer
Functions: Ensures reliable end-to-end data delivery. It segments data from the upper layers, manages flow control, and provides error detection
and correction.
Example Protocols: TCP, UDP
Layer 3: Network Layer
Functions: Handles routing and forwarding of data packets across networks. It determines the best path for data transmission between source and
destination devices.
Example Protocols: IP, ICMP
Layer 2: Data Link Layer
Functions: Provides reliable data transfer between two directly connected nodes. It is responsible for framing, addressing, and error detection in data
packets.
Example Protocols: Ethernet, Wi-Fi
Layer 1: Physical Layer
Functions: Handles the physical transmission of raw bits over the physical medium, such as cables or wireless signals.
Example Functions: Signal modulation, Bit transmission
MODULE 2
4. What do you mean by Transverse in Electromagnetic waves.
Transverse in Electromagnetic Waves: In electromagnetic waves, the term "transverse" refers to the direction of oscillation of the electric and
magnetic fields. These waves are characterized by perpendicular oscillations of electric and magnetic fields, and they propagate in a direction
perpendicular to both fields. This is in contrast to longitudinal waves, where the oscillations occur in the
same direction as the wave propagation.
In a transverse electromagnetic wave, such as light waves, the electric field vector and the magnetic field vector are perpendicular to each other and
also perpendicular to the direction in which the wave is moving. This perpendicular arrangement allows the wave to oscillate and propagate through
space.
Optical fibre as a Transmission Media: An optical fiber is a type of transmission medium used to transmit information in the form of light pulses. It is
made of a transparent core, typically glass or plastic, surrounded by a cladding layer with a lower refractive index. The core and cladding are coated
with a protective buffer to provide strength and protection.
When light signals, carrying data in the form of digital or analog information, are injected into one end of the optical fiber, they undergo multiple
total internal reflections within the fiber core due to the principle of total internal reflection. This ensures that the light remains confined within the
core and travels through the fiber without significant loss of signal strength. The light signals reach the other end of the fiber and can be converted
back into electrical signals to retrieve the transmitted information.
Optical fibers are widely used in telecommunications, networking, and high-speed internet connections due to their high data transmission capacity,
low signal attenuation (loss), and immunity to electromagnetic interference.
7. Explain the Pros and Cons of Optical fiber with a neat block diagram.
Different Modes Used in an Optical Fiber: In an optical fiber, modes refer to the different paths that light can take while propagating through the
fiber. The two primary modes used in optical fibers are:
a. Single Mode (SM): Single-mode fibers allow only one mode of light to propagate through the core. The core diameter is small (around 9
micrometers), which forces the light to travel in a straight line with minimal dispersion. This mode is used for long-distance communications and
high-speed data transmission.
b. Multimode (MM): Multimode fibers have a larger core diameter (typically 50 or 62.5 micrometers), allowing multiple modes of light to propagate
simultaneously. These modes take different paths and arrive at different times, causing modal dispersion. Multimode fibers are more suitable for
short-distance communications and are commonly used in local area networks (LANs) and data centers.
9. Describe different types of Optical Fiber.
Different Types of Optical Fiber:
a. Step-Index Multimode Fiber: This type of fiber has a core with a uniform refractive index and is commonly used for short-distance communication.
b. Graded-Index Multimode Fiber: The refractive index of the core decreases gradually from the center outward, allowing for better modal dispersion
control and higher bandwidth compared to step-index multimode fibers.
c. Single-Mode Fiber: This fiber has a much smaller core diameter than multimode fibers and allows only one mode of light to propagate. It is used
for long-distance telecommunications and high-speed data transmission.
d. Plastic Optical Fiber (POF): POFs have a larger core made of plastic material, making them easier to work with and less expensive. They are
commonly used in short-range communication and consumer applications.
e. Polarization-Maintaining Fiber: This type of fiber is designed to maintain the polarization state of light, making it useful in applications where
preserving the polarization is crucial, such as in certain sensors and interferometers.
10.Explain the mechanism of propagating light through an optical fiber.
Mechanism of Propagating Light Through an Optical Fiber: The propagation of light through an optical fiber is based on the principle of total
internal reflection. When light enters the core of the fiber, it undergoes multiple reflections as it travels through the fiber. The key steps involved in
the mechanism are as follows:
Light Generation: The light signals carrying data are generated by an optical source, such as a laser or Light Emitting Diode (LED).
Modulation: The generated light signals are modulated to encode the data onto the light wave. Various modulation techniques like
amplitude modulation, frequency modulation, or phase modulation can be used.
Injection into the Fiber: The modulated light signals are injected into one end of the optical fiber.
Total Internal Reflection: The light waves travel through the core of the fiber. As they encounter the core-cladding interface, the light
undergoes total internal reflection, bouncing off the boundary of the core due to the difference in refractive indices between the core and
cladding.
Multiple Reflections: The light signals continue to undergo multiple reflections as they traverse through the fiber, ensuring that the light
remains confined within the core.
Propagation: The confined light travels through the fiber, maintaining its coherence and signal integrity.
Reception: At the other end of the fiber, the light signals are detected and converted back into electrical signals by a receiver, such as a
photodetector.
Demodulation: The demodulator extracts the encoded data from the received optical signals.
Data Retrieval: The data retrieved from the optical signals is then processed and used for various applications, such as data transmission,
communication, or sensing.
Overall, this mechanism allows for efficient and high-speed transmission of data over long distances with minimal signal loss, making
optical fibers a crucial component of modern telecommunication and networking systems.
MODULE 3
3. What is a T carrier system? What is a fractional T carrier system? Describe in detail, the various T carrier systems.
A T carrier system is a digital transmission system used to transmit voice and data over long distances. It was developed by AT&T in the mid-20th
century and has since become a standard for telecommunications networks. T carriers use time-division multiplexing (TDM) to transmit multiple
digital signals simultaneously over a single communication channel.
The most common T carrier systems are:
T1: T1 is the basic level of the T carrier system and operates at a transmission rate of 1.544 Mbps. It consists of 24 channels, with each
channel capable of carrying 64 Kbps of data. Out of these 24 channels, 23 are used for data, while one channel is used for signaling and
synchronization.
T2: T2 operates at a transmission rate of 6.312 Mbps and combines four T1 channels, resulting in a total of 96 channels, each carrying 64
Kbps.
T3: T3 operates at a transmission rate of 44.736 Mbps and is formed by combining 28 T1 channels, resulting in a total of 672 channels,
each carrying 64 Kbps.
T4: T4 operates at a transmission rate of 274.176 Mbps and combines multiple T3 channels.
Fractional T carrier systems are variations of the standard T carrier systems that allow users to lease a portion of the available bandwidth rather
than the full capacity of a T carrier. This is useful when the full capacity of a T carrier is not required. For example, instead of leasing a full T1 with
all 24 channels, a user might only need a fraction of those channels, such as 4 or 8 channels. Fractional T carriers provide more flexibility and cost-
effectiveness for users with lower bandwidth requirements.
4. Compare WDM and DWDM and also list the advantages and disadvantages of WDM.
WDM (Wavelength Division Multiplexing) and DWDM (Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing) are both techniques used in fiber-optic
communication to increase the capacity of a single optical fiber by transmitting multiple data streams over different wavelengths of light.
WDM:
WDM allows multiple optical signals to be combined and transmitted over a single fiber, with each signal using a different wavelength of
light.
It typically operates in the C-band (conventional band) with wavelengths around 1550 nm.
WDM is not as efficient as DWDM in terms of packing a large number of channels closely together, which limits its capacity.
It is suitable for lower capacity needs and situations where channel spacing is not a critical concern.
DWDM:
DWDM is an advanced version of WDM that allows for a more dense packing of channels, greatly increasing the capacity of the fiber.
It operates in the C-band and L-band (conventional and extended bands) and can use channel spacing as low as 0.8 nm or even less.
DWDM is highly scalable, allowing for the transmission of numerous channels (sometimes up to 80 or more) over a single fiber
simultaneously.
Increased Capacity: WDM allows multiple channels to be transmitted over a single fiber, increasing the overall capacity of the
communication link.
Cost-Effectiveness: Instead of laying multiple fibers for each channel, WDM enables multiple signals to share the same fiber, reducing
infrastructure costs.
Future-Proofing: WDM's scalability makes it a future-proof solution for handling increasing data demands without the need for significant
infrastructure upgrades.
Disadvantages of WDM:
Channel Spacing Limitation: WDM has limitations in how closely it can pack channels together due to the broader channel spacing
compared to DWDM. This limits the maximum number of channels that can be transmitted.
Complexity: Implementing WDM systems can be more complex than traditional systems due to the need for precise wavelength control
and multiplexing/demultiplexing components.
What do you understand by companding? Compare analog and digital companding.
Companding is a compression and expansion process used in telecommunications and audio signal processing to improve the signal-to-noise ratio
(SNR) of analog signals when they are quantized or encoded.
Analog Companding:
Analog companding is used in analog systems before the signal is digitized for transmission or storage.
The process involves compressing the dynamic range of the analog signal before quantization, which allows for more accurate
representation of the signal at lower amplitude levels.
The dynamic range of the analog signal is reduced in the transmitter (compression) and expanded back to its original range in the
receiver.
Common analog companding algorithms include μ-law and A-law, which are widely used in telecommunications systems like the Public
Switched Telephone Network (PSTN).
Digital Companding:
Digital companding, on the other hand, is used in digital systems after analog-to-digital conversion to reduce the bit rate required for
transmission or storage.
It involves applying a non-linear transformation to the digital signal, which compresses the dynamic range of the signal at lower
amplitudes and expands it back to the original range during playback.
Digital companding is commonly used in audio and speech codecs, where it helps reduce the bit rate needed to represent the signal
accurately while maintaining good audio quality.
Comparison:
Analog companding deals with the analog domain, whereas digital companding operates in the digital domain.
Analog companding is typically used in analog-to-digital conversion, while digital companding is used after analog-to-digital conversion to
improve digital signal compression and transmission efficiency.
Both analog and digital companding aim to improve the SNR of the signal, reduce quantization noise, and improve overall signal quality.
Digital companding offers more flexibility and precision because it can take advantage of the computational power of digital signal
processing, allowing for more sophisticated algorithms.
6. What is SQR, and what is its relationship to resolution, dynamic range, and the maximum number of bits in a PCM code?
SQR stands for Signal-to-Quantization-Noise Ratio, and it is a critical parameter used to characterize the quality of a Pulse Code Modulation (PCM)
system.
In PCM, an analog signal is sampled and then quantized into discrete digital values. During quantization, the continuous analog signal is
approximated by a finite number of discrete levels or codes. The difference between the original analog signal and the quantized value is called the
quantization error or noise.
The relationship between SQR, resolution, dynamic range, and the maximum number of bits in a PCM code is as follows:
1. Resolution: Resolution refers to the number of bits used to represent the amplitude of the analog signal in the PCM code. Higher
resolution means more bits are available to represent the signal, leading to more discrete levels and finer quantization.
2. Dynamic Range: The dynamic range is the range of signal amplitudes that a PCM system can represent accurately. It is determined by
the number of quantization levels available in the PCM code. A higher number of quantization levels (higher resolution) results in a larger
dynamic range, allowing the PCM system to represent a wider range of signal amplitudes.
3. Maximum Number of Bits in a PCM Code: The maximum number of bits in a PCM code determines the total number of quantization
levels available for representing the analog signal. It is determined by the bit depth or word length of the PCM system. For example, in an
8-bit PCM system, there are 2^8 (256) quantization levels.
The Signal-to-Quantization-Noise Ratio (SQR) is defined as the ratio of the signal power to the quantization noise power. It is a measure of how
much the quantization noise affects the fidelity of the signal representation. A higher SQR indicates that the quantization noise is relatively smaller
and less perceptible, leading to a more accurate representation of the original analog signal.
The relationship between SQR, resolution, dynamic range, and the maximum number of bits can be summarized as follows:
Higher resolution (more bits) leads to a larger dynamic range and a higher number of quantization levels.
Smaller quantization noise leads to a higher SQR, indicating better signal fidelity and improved signal-to-noise performance.
7. What is the difference between FDMA, TDMA, and CDMA?
FDMA (Frequency Division Multiple Access), TDMA (Time Division Multiple Access), and CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access) are all multiple
access techniques used in telecommunications to allow multiple users to share the same communication channel efficiently. They are commonly
used in various wireless communication systems like cellular networks.
1. FDMA:
FDMA divides the available frequency bandwidth into multiple non-overlapping frequency channels.
Each user is assigned a specific frequency channel, and they transmit and receive their data using that channel.
FDMA is commonly used in analog systems and older digital communication systems.
The efficiency of FDMA depends on the number of frequency channels available and the bandwidth requirements of individual users.
2. TDMA:
TDMA divides the available time slots of a single frequency channel into multiple time slots.
Each user is allocated a specific time slot during which they can transmit and receive data.
TDMA systems often use a fixed time slot allocation for each user, providing regular time intervals for data transmission.
TDMA is more efficient than FDMA in terms of spectral efficiency, as it allows multiple users to share the same frequency channel.
3. CDMA:
CDMA does not allocate separate frequency channels or time slots to users.
Instead, all users can transmit simultaneously using the entire available frequency spectrum.
Each user's data is multiplied by a unique spreading code (a sequence of bits) before transmission, and the receiver uses the
corresponding code to extract the desired user's signal from the received mixture.
CDMA offers a higher capacity as the same frequency and time resources can be reused by different users, and the interference is
mitigated through the use of orthogonal codes.
CDMA uses unique codes to allow multiple users to share the entire frequency band simultaneously.
8. What is the line speed, and how is it determined?
Line speed, also known as data rate or bit rate, refers to the rate at which data is transmitted over a communication channel or a data link. It
represents the number of bits that can be transmitted per second and is commonly measured in bits per second (bps) or its multiples (Kbps, Mbps,
Gbps, etc.).
The line speed is determined by several factors, including:
1. Channel Capacity: The maximum data rate that a communication channel can support without errors is referred to as its channel
capacity. This capacity is influenced by the physical properties of the channel, such as bandwidth and signal-to-noise ratio.
2. Modulation Scheme: The type of modulation used in the transmission affects the line speed. Different modulation schemes encode data
using different patterns of amplitude, frequency, or phase changes, allowing for different data rates.
3. Coding and Compression: The use of data encoding techniques and compression algorithms can increase the effective data rate by
reducing the amount of data that needs to be transmitted.
4. Noise and Interference: Noise and interference on the communication channel can limit the achievable data rate. Error correction
techniques and signal processing may be employed to mitigate the impact of noise.
5. Protocol Overhead: In data communication, protocols add overhead to the transmitted data. This includes control information, headers,
and other signaling data that accompany the actual user data.
6. Multiplexing Techniques: In scenarios where multiple channels or users share the same physical link (e.g., in FDMA, TDMA, or CDMA
systems), the line speed is divided among the users, affecting the data rate available to each user.
MODULE 4
3. What is a radio wave? What are the optical properties of radio waves? Explain all the details of how they relate to radio wave
propagation?
A radio wave is a type of electromagnetic wave that falls within the radio frequency (RF) portion of the electromagnetic spectrum. It has relatively
long wavelengths and low frequencies, ranging from about 30 kHz (kilohertz) to 300 GHz (gigahertz). These waves are used for various
communication purposes, including radio broadcasting, television transmission, mobile phones, Wi-Fi, and satellite communication.
Optical properties of radio waves:
Wavelength: Radio waves have longer wavelengths compared to visible light. Their wavelengths can range from several meters to several
millimeters, making them suitable for long-range communication as they can diffract and bend around obstacles.
Speed: In a vacuum, radio waves travel at the speed of light, which is approximately 299,792 kilometers per second (km/s).
Absorption and Penetration: Radio waves can penetrate certain materials, like walls and buildings, to some extent. The ability to penetrate objects
depends on the material's composition and the frequency of the radio wave.
Refraction: Radio waves can experience refraction, which means their path can be bent when passing through different layers of the Earth's
atmosphere, leading to phenomena like ducting (atmospheric refraction) that can extend their range.
Diffraction: Radio waves can diffract around obstacles, such as buildings and mountains, allowing them to reach beyond the line of sight.
Radio wave propagation:
Radio wave propagation refers to the way radio waves travel from a transmitter to a receiver. Several factors influence radio wave propagation:
a. Line-of-Sight (LOS) Propagation: This occurs when there is a direct, unobstructed path between the transmitter and receiver. LOS propagation is
the simplest and most reliable form of propagation for long-range communication.
b. Ground Wave Propagation: At lower frequencies (longer wavelengths), radio waves can travel along the surface of the Earth due to ground wave
propagation. The waves are diffracted around the Earth's curvature and can follow the contour of the terrain.
c. Sky Wave Propagation: At medium to high frequencies, radio waves can be refracted by the Earth's ionosphere, which is a layer of charged
particles in the upper atmosphere. This allows the radio waves to be bent back towards the Earth and cover longer distances.
d. Tropospheric Scatter Propagation: This type of propagation occurs when radio waves interact with irregularities in the Earth's lower atmosphere
(troposphere). The waves are scattered in various directions, allowing communication over long distances.
e. Ionospheric Propagation: At very high frequencies (VHF) and ultra-high frequencies (UHF), radio waves can be refracted and reflected by
multiple layers of the ionosphere, allowing for long-range communication over the horizon.
4. What is meant by a free space path loss of an electromagnetic wave? Give the mathematical equation in decibel form. Determine, in
dB, the free space path loss for a frequency of 6 GHz travelling a distance of 50 km.
c. Line-of-Sight (LOS) Propagation: This mode of propagation is most significant at microwave frequencies and higher. LOS propagation occurs
when there is a clear, unobstructed path between the transmitter and receiver. It is commonly used for microwave communication, satellite
communication, and cellular networks. LOS propagation is limited by the Earth's curvature, so it is suitable for relatively shorter distances, typically
up to a few tens of kilometers.
6. What is a satellite multiple accessing arrangement? List and describe, in detail with neat diagrams, the three forms of satellite multiple
accessing arrangements.
Fixed Position: Geosynchronous satellites remain fixed relative to the Earth's surface, as they orbit at the same speed as the Earth's rotation. This
fixed position allows ground stations to establish a constant connection without the need to track the satellite's movement continually.
Continuous Coverage: Due to their fixed position, geosynchronous satellites can provide continuous coverage over a large area, typically covering
about one-third of the Earth's surface. This makes them ideal for applications like television broadcasting, internet services, and long-distance
communication.
Minimal Antenna Tracking: Since geosynchronous satellites stay in the same position relative to the Earth, ground-based antennas do not require
complex tracking systems, simplifying the ground station infrastructure.
Global Communication: Geosynchronous satellites can serve a global audience since their coverage area spans vast regions of the Earth. They are
especially useful for providing communication services to remote and sparsely populated areas.
However, it's essential to consider that geosynchronous satellites also have some drawbacks, such as increased signal latency due to the long
distance the signal must travel to and from the satellite. Additionally, the high altitude requires higher signal power, which can lead to larger and
more expensive ground-based antennas.
8. List the advantages and disadvantages of microwave communications over cable transmission facilities.
Advantages and disadvantages of microwave communications over cable transmission facilities:
Advantages of Microwave Communications:
Line-of-Sight Transmission: Microwave communication operates in the line-of-sight mode, which means there should be a clear line of sight
between the transmitting and receiving antennas. This allows for direct and reliable communication, especially over relatively short to medium
distances.
High Data Transmission Rates: Microwave links can offer high data transmission rates, making them suitable for applications requiring large
bandwidth, such as data transfer, video streaming, and high-speed internet connections.
Quick Deployment: Setting up microwave links is generally faster and more straightforward than laying physical cables, especially in remote or
challenging terrains. This quick deployment makes it a viable option for temporary communication needs or in emergency situations.
Minimal Infrastructure Cost: Compared to cable transmission facilities, microwave communication can be more cost-effective, especially for shorter
distances. The absence of physical cables reduces installation and maintenance expenses.
Disadvantages of Microwave Communications:
Line-of-Sight Limitation: Microwave signals require an unobstructed line of sight between the transmitting and receiving antennas. Obstacles like
buildings, mountains, or tall vegetation can block the signal and cause interruptions or signal degradation.
Atmospheric Interference: Certain weather conditions, such as heavy rain, snow, or fog, can weaken or attenuate microwave signals, affecting the
quality of communication.
Limited Range: Microwave communication is limited by the curvature of the Earth and the Fresnel zone, making it suitable for relatively shorter
distances. For long-distance communication, repeaters or relay stations are necessary, which adds complexity and cost to the system.
Susceptibility to Interference: Microwave signals can be vulnerable to interference from other microwave sources operating on nearby frequencies.
Careful frequency planning and coordination are required to avoid interference issues.
Reliability Concerns: The reliability of microwave communication may be lower than that of cable transmission, as it depends on environmental
factors and the stability of the microwave links. In critical applications, redundancy and backup systems may be necessary to ensure continuous
communication.
9. Explain different polarization Techniques
Polarization refers to the orientation of the electric field vector in an electromagnetic wave as it propagates through space. In wireless
communication systems, polarization is an essential aspect to consider for efficient transmission and reception of signals. Here are the main
polarization techniques used in various applications:
a. Linear Polarization:
In linear polarization, the electric field vector of the electromagnetic wave remains in a fixed plane as the wave propagates. The orientation of the
electric field can be horizontal or vertical. Linear polarization is commonly used in radio broadcasting, television transmission, and point-to-point
microwave links.
b. Circular Polarization:
Circular polarization involves the electric field vector rotating in a circular pattern as the wave propagates. This rotation can be clockwise or counter
clockwise. Circular polarization is less susceptible to signal degradation caused by reflections and multipath propagation. It is widely used in
satellite communication, GPS systems, and mobile communication networks.
c. Elliptical Polarization:
Elliptical polarization is a combination of linear and circular polarization, resulting in an elliptical path traced by the electric field vector. This type of
polarization is used in certain specialized applications and can be advantageous in dealing with certain propagation conditions and signal
polarization mismatches.
The choice of polarization depends on the specific communication system, the environment in which the signals propagate, and the need to mitigate
interference and signal degradation. Proper polarization selection helps improve communication reliability and efficiency.
Module 5
1.Explain different data communication codes.
b. EBCDIC (Extended Binary Coded Decimal Interchange Code): Used mainly in older mainframe computers, EBCDIC is an 8-bit character encoding standard
that includes additional symbols and characters not present in ASCII.
c. Unicode: Designed to handle characters from various writing systems globally, Unicode uses 16 or 32 bits to represent characters, allowing support for a vast
range of languages and symbols.
d. Baudot Code: One of the earliest character encoding schemes, Baudot code uses a 5-bit binary representation for characters.
e. Gray Code (Reflected Binary Code): In Gray code, adjacent values differ by only one bit, reducing the chances of errors in transmission when transitioning
between two values.
b. Checksum: A checksum is a value calculated from the data and sent along with it. The receiver recalculates the checksum and compares it with the received
value to detect errors.
c. Cyclic Redundancy Check (CRC): A more robust error detection technique using polynomial division. The sender and receiver share a generator polynomial
(like the one given in question 3) and use it to generate a CRC code. The receiver checks the CRC to detect errors.
d. Hamming Code: An error-correcting code that adds redundant bits to the data to allow the receiver to detect and correct single-bit errors.
e. Forward Error Correction (FEC): In FEC, redundant data is added to the transmission, allowing the receiver to correct errors without retransmission.
Describe various error detection and correction technique.3. The generator polynomial is x 3 +x+1. A sender wants to send data 1001.
Generate CRC code. Also describe error checking process if 3rd bit is inverted from the left.
4. Flow control and Error control both are properties of Transport Layer and Data Link Layer. What
you think is it duplicity of properties in both layer or is it ok? Comment
4. Flow Control and Error Control in Transport and Data Link Layers: Flow control and error control are both essential aspects of reliable data
communication, but they operate at different layers of the network stack:
Flow Control: Flow control manages the rate of data transmission between the sender and receiver to prevent data overflow. It ensures that the sender
does not overwhelm the receiver with data. In the transport layer, flow control is typically implemented using sliding window protocols like TCP's
congestion control mechanism. In the data link layer, it can be achieved through techniques like the sliding window protocol (e.g., HDLC) or using
control signals like XON/XOFF.
Error Control: Error control focuses on identifying and correcting errors that occur during data transmission. It ensures data integrity and reliability. In
the transport layer, error control is typically implemented through mechanisms like checksums and acknowledgment/retransmission strategies (e.g.,
TCP's selective repeat or go-back-N). In the data link layer, error control is often achieved using techniques like CRC and automatic repeat requests
(ARQ) protocols (e.g., ARQ with stop-and-wait or sliding window).
Comment: While flow control and error control are indeed properties of both the Transport Layer and Data Link Layer, they serve different purposes and operate
at different levels. This is not duplicity, but rather a design choice to address specific concerns at different layers of the network stack. Each layer is responsible for
different functionalities, and these functionalities may overlap or complement each other to ensure reliable data communication.
5. Explain the protocols in Data link layer for error and flow control.
Protocols in Data Link Layer for Error and Flow Control: In the Data Link Layer, several protocols address error and flow control:
Error Control Protocols: a. Cyclic Redundancy Check (CRC): As mentioned earlier, CRC is a widely used error detection technique in the Data Link
Layer. It generates a checksum based on a polynomial division and appends it to the data to detect errors during transmission. b. Automatic Repeat
Requests (ARQ): ARQ protocols, such as Stop-and-Wait ARQ and Go-Back-N ARQ, are used to automatically request retransmission of data when
errors are detected. The receiver sends acknowledgment or negative acknowledgment to the sender, indicating successful or failed reception,
respectively.
Flow Control Protocols: a. Sliding Window Protocol: The sliding window protocol is a flow control technique that allows the sender to transmit
multiple frames before receiving acknowledgments. It uses a window size to control the number of unacknowledged frames in-flight. b. XON/XOFF
Protocol: This flow control protocol uses control characters (XON and XOFF) to signal the receiver to start or stop transmitting data. It is often used in
asynchronous serial communication.
Comparison between Flow Control and Error Control: Flow Control and Error Control are both mechanisms that ensure reliable data communication but serve
different purposes and operate at different layers of the network stack. Here's a comparison between the two:
Purpose:
Flow Control: Manages the rate of data transmission between the sender and receiver to avoid overwhelming the receiver with data.
Error Control: Detects and corrects errors that occur during data transmission to ensure data integrity and reliability.
Layer of Operation:
Flow Control: Typically operates at both the Transport Layer and Data Link Layer.
Error Control: Operates at both the Transport Layer and Data Link Layer, with different techniques employed at each layer.
Scope:
Flow Control: Controls the flow of data within a communication session between two nodes.
Error Control: Focuses on identifying and correcting errors in data transmission.
Mechanisms:
Flow Control: Utilizes techniques like sliding window protocols (e.g., TCP's congestion control) or control signals (e.g., XON/XOFF).
Error Control: Uses techniques like CRC, checksums, and Automatic Repeat Requests (ARQ) protocols.
Objective:
Flow Control: Prevents data overflow and ensures efficient data transmission.
Error Control: Ensures data integrity and corrects errors to achieve reliable communication.
7. Differentiate flow control and error control. Describe the various error control techniques.
Differentiating Flow Control and Error Control and Describing Error Control Techniques: Flow Control and Error Control are distinct aspects of data
communication:
Flow Control:
Purpose: Manages data transmission rate to prevent overwhelming the receiver.
Layer: Operates in both Transport and Data Link Layers.
Mechanisms: Sliding window protocols, XON/XOFF.
Error Control:
Purpose: Detects and corrects errors during data transmission to ensure data integrity.
Layer: Operates in both Transport and Data Link Layers.
Techniques: CRC, checksums, Automatic Repeat Requests (ARQ), parity checks, Hamming codes.
Error Control Techniques:
Cyclic Redundancy Check (CRC): As described earlier, CRC is widely used for error detection. It generates a checksum based on polynomial division
and appends it to the data to detect errors.
Automatic Repeat Requests (ARQ): ARQ protocols request retransmission of data when errors are detected. Examples include Stop-and-Wait ARQ,
Go-Back-N ARQ, and Selective Repeat ARQ.
Parity Check: Adds a parity bit to the data to ensure the total number of 1s is either even or odd for error detection.
Hamming Code: An error-correcting code that adds redundant bits to the data, allowing the receiver to detect and correct single-bit errors.
Techniques to Synchronize and Control a Modem: Modems (modulator-demodulators) are devices used to convert digital signals from computers or other digital
devices into analog signals for transmission over analog communication channels and vice versa. To synchronize and control a modem, the following techniques
are used:
Modulation and Demodulation: Modems use modulation to convert digital signals into analog signals suitable for transmission over the communication
channel. At the receiving end, demodulation is used to convert analog signals back into digital signals.
Carrier Signal: Modems use a carrier signal to carry the digital information over the analog channel. The carrier signal is modulated to encode the
digital data.
Error Correction: Modems often employ error correction techniques, such as forward error correction (FEC), to enhance data integrity during
transmission. FEC allows the receiver to correct errors without the need for retransmission.
Flow Control: Modems implement flow control mechanisms to manage the rate of data transmission between the sender and receiver to prevent data
overflow or loss.
Handshaking: Handshaking is a process through which two modems establish communication and negotiate parameters before transmitting data. It
ensures that both ends are ready to exchange data.
Protocols: Modems may use specific communication protocols (e.g., V.21, V.32, V.34) to standardize the data exchange process and ensure
compatibility between different modems.
10. Explain the working principles of a Modem with neat block diagram.
Working Principles of a Modem with Neat Block Diagram: A modem, short for modulator-demodulator, facilitates communication between digital devices
over analog communication channels. Let's explore the working principles of a modem using a neat block diagram:
1. Digital Device: This represents the digital source, such as a computer or a digital communication device, which generates the digital data to be
transmitted.
2. Modulation: The digital data from the digital device is passed to the modulation unit. The modulation process involves converting digital signals into
analog signals suitable for transmission over analog communication channels. Common modulation techniques include amplitude modulation (AM)
and frequency modulation (FM). The analog signal now carries the digital information and is ready for transmission.
3. Analog Channel: The analog signal is transmitted over the analog communication channel, which could be a telephone line, radio frequency, or any
other analog medium.
4. Demodulation: At the receiving end, the analog signal is received from the analog channel and passed to the demodulation unit. Demodulation involves
converting the analog signal back into digital signals by extracting the original digital data.
5. Digital Device: The digital data is now available in its original digital form and can be processed by the receiving digital device, such as a computer or
another digital communication device.
The modem ensures that the digital data from the source is modulated into analog signals for transmission and that the received analog signals are demodulated
back into digital form for the destination device to understand.