Modern means and communication channels serve us not only as intermediaries for the transmission of information. They are able to provide and support the work of mechanisms and devices, oversee the work of employees, remotely control complex equipment.
Much has been said about the
types of communication . We will only list them. So, for
data transfer, you can use telegraph, telephone, radio, sound
broadcasting systems
, television, satellite or mobile communications, new formats (3G, 4G, etc.), computer wired and wireless networks. Moreover, thanks to the development of technologies in the field of communication and switching, the quality and speed of transmission is constantly growing. A significant role in this is played by communication channels. They will be discussed.
Types and classification of communication channels
Before talking about species, it makes sense to outline the essence of the concept of “communication channels”. By it is meant a system consisting of an environment in which a signal propagates, as well as a set of technical devices and means that provide and support the propagation of a signal of a certain frequency at a certain speed.
Regarding classification or typology, at present, communication channels can be divided as follows:
- By type of conductive medium (cable or radio frequency).
- According to the frequency range (high-frequency, VHF, UHF, microwave range, millimeter range, infrared).
- By type of signal (analog or digital).
Many have probably heard expressions such as digital communication channels or optical communication channels. What are their distinguishing features or advantages?
Digital communication channels transmit information in the form of a binary code, which
consists of only 0 and 1. Thanks to this technology, it was possible to achieve minimal data loss or distortion, in contrast to the analog method. For example, when talking on the phone, an
analog signal is most often used
, the principle of which is the transmission of continuous electrical oscillations. That is why analog information exchange systems are very susceptible to interference and can significantly distort information or lose data.
Optical communication channels differ from others in the material in which the cable is made. The optical fiber used in their production allows for high channel throughput, minimal distortion or reduction of the signal even at large distances, and immunity to interference. In addition, fiber is economical in production, much smaller and lighter in its overall dimensions. According to some sources, the weight of conventional cables can be 10 times the mass of an optical wire of a similar size. Optical communication channels are also digital, because they transmit information in this form.
It is impossible not to say about wireless communication channels. We use some of them without even thinking about it. An example of this is the infrared (laser) communication channel. It is he who allows us to control a TV or other device using a remote control that delivers a directional beam of light. Wireless channels include:
- Infrared or laser.
- Microwave channels (used for satellite or long-distance communications).
- Networks of free radio frequencies (the ability to transmit a signal in several bands at once).