SDM - May 2008 - (Page 105)

Technology Solutions & Skills INSTALLING NETWORKS Home Networking ‘101’ Entertainment and technology systems have not traditionally been included in the design/planning phases of construction projects until fairly recently. Builders and their clients are more technically savvy than ever before. But the information is constantly changing, making it tougher and tougher to stay ahead of the learning curve. To stay competitive and profitable, many dealers and integrators are adding audio/video distribution and home wiring, automation and networking to their scope of services. Mastering systems design is key to a dealer/integrator’s success in this segment. Integral to this is creating a local area network (LAN), which is a network of computers located relatively near each other and connected by Cat 5 cable. A LAN can consist of two or three PCs connected to share resources, or it can span several hundred computers of different kinds. Any network that exists within a single building, or even a group of adjacent buildings, is considered a LAN. A LAN permits all the computers connected to it to share hardware, software and data. The most commonly shared resources are disk storage devices and printers. To LAN users, the network is (or should be) completely transparent, meaning that the shared devices on it seem to be directly connected to the user’s computer as if they were merely peripherals. A file server, for example, should appear to the LAN user simply as another disk drive. In addition to shared hardware, LANs can provide all of the other benefits of networks, including simultaneous access, enhanced personal communication and easier backup. CHOOSING YOUR NETWORK The multiple considerations when designing a home or office network include the kind of network to implement. The most common type is called a star network, which places a hub in the center of the network. Star Network This setup has the advantage of the hub monitoring traffic and preventing collisions. Additionally, a broken connection does not affect the rest of the network. However, if you lose the hub, the entire network goes down. The trend of the future and the most cost-effective network is wireless. DIAGRAMS COURTESY OF TRI-ED DISTRIBUTION Wireless Network Cable or DSL modem CP WAN port Wireless laptop Wireless networks like this one are the trend of the future. Hub This is a typical basic arrangement for a local area network called a star. Dedicated Micros Launches New Training Program for Customers Dedicated Micros launched a new program to provide high-quality training to its customers in remote Web-based and classroom-style formats. The training program will focus on Dedicated Micros products, beginning with the new SD series of DVRs, as well as the Digital Sprite2 series of DVRs. Eventually the training will expand to the entire product line. The training classes — both online and classroom style — are created based on the user’s involvement with the product, offering different content for installers and operators. The task-oriented training allows users to quickly identify and master relevant information to their situation. For more information, visit www.dedicatedmicrosus.com. To ensure that a wireless home network functions properly, you should consider placing the wireless router at least 10 feet from cordless phones or microwave ovens to avoid potential interference. If your customer has a large home or office with thick/dense walls, it is suggested you place the wireless router as high and to the center of the house as possible. If you want access outside, place the wireless router near a window. Try to keep the wireless router away from any large metal objects, because these will hinder its distance. The modems of most Internet service providers (ISPs) come with wireless routers built in, but make sure your wireless device is compatible with the routers and uses protocols such as 802.11a, b or g. If they do not, it is quite simple to add a wireless router to an existing network. — Contributed by Lee Duncan, branch manager, Tri-Ed Distribution, Dallas May 2008 105 http://www.dedicatedmicrosus.com http://www.dedicatedmicrosus.com

Table of Contents Feed for the Digital Edition of SDM - May 2008

SDM - May 2008 Contents Editor’s Angle Exclusive ISC West Coverage Stanley Convergent’s Newest Acquisition Cisco Introduces New IP Cameras, Expands Physical Security Solution Portfolio Ionit Technologies Partners with Walgreens; Places DVR Systems in Stores Nationwide Pennsylvania-Based Security System Providers Merge Custom Home Electronics Distributor Inks Distribution Agreement Security and the Law Integration Intelligence 18th Annual SDM 100: Double Digits Fire Systems: State of the Market Addressable Fire Control Systems Storage: Where Can We Put All This? Central Station Managed Access Technology at Work 5-Minute Tech Quiz Technology Solutions & Skills Security NetWorkings SDM Marketplace Classifieds

SDM - May 2008

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