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Question

Which of the following is not an example of a guided transmission media?

The correct answer is

infrared wave

Understanding Transmission Media in Networking

In computer networks, data needs to travel from one point to another. The path or physical channel through which this data travels is called transmission media. Transmission media can be broadly classified into two categories: guided transmission media and unguided transmission media.

Guided Transmission Media Explained

Guided transmission media, also known as wired or bound media, are physical pathways that confine the signal and guide it along a specific path. The signal is directed down the solid medium. Examples of guided transmission media include:

  • Twisted Pair Cable: Consists of two insulated copper wires twisted together to reduce electromagnetic interference.
  • Coaxial Cable: Features a central conductor surrounded by an insulating layer, a metallic shield, and an outer insulating sheath.
  • Fiber Optic Cable: Uses thin strands of glass or plastic to transmit data in the form of light signals.

These media provide a specific physical route for data signals.

Unguided Transmission Media Explained

Unguided transmission media, also known as wireless or unbound media, transmit signals through the air, vacuum, or water. There is no physical path guiding the signal. Examples of unguided transmission media include:

  • Radio Waves: Used for broadcasting, mobile communication, and wireless networks (like Wi-Fi).
  • Microwaves: Used for satellite communication and long-distance terrestrial links.
  • Infrared Waves: Used for short-range communication, like TV remotes or within a room for certain wireless devices.

These media rely on electromagnetic waves propagating freely.

Analyzing the Options

Let's examine each option provided in the question:

  1. Fiber optic: As discussed, fiber optic cable is a physical medium that guides light signals. This is an example of guided transmission media.
  2. Coaxial cable: Coaxial cable is a physical cable structure designed to guide electrical signals. This is an example of guided transmission media.
  3. Infrared wave: Infrared waves are electromagnetic waves that travel through the air. There is no physical cable guiding these waves. This is an example of unguided transmission media.
  4. Twisted pair: Twisted pair cable is a physical cable consisting of twisted wires that guide electrical signals. This is an example of guided transmission media.

Identifying the Non-Guided Medium

The question asks which of the following is not an example of a guided transmission media. Based on our analysis:

  • Fiber optic is guided.
  • Coaxial cable is guided.
  • Twisted pair is guided.
  • Infrared wave is unguided.

Therefore, infrared wave is the option that is not an example of guided transmission media.

Transmission Media Classification
Type Description Examples
Guided Physical path for signal transmission Twisted Pair, Coaxial Cable, Fiber Optic Cable
Unguided Wireless transmission through air/vacuum Radio Waves, Microwaves, Infrared Waves

Revision Table: Key Transmission Media Types

Media Type Category Signal Type Common Use Cases
Twisted Pair Guided Electrical Telephone lines, Ethernet (LANs)
Coaxial Cable Guided Electrical Cable TV, Older Ethernet (10Base2)
Fiber Optic Guided Light High-speed networks, Long-distance links
Infrared Waves Unguided Electromagnetic Remote controls, Short-range device communication

Additional Information: Comparing Transmission Media

Choosing the right transmission media depends on various factors like bandwidth requirements, distance, cost, and susceptibility to interference. Guided media generally offer higher bandwidth and are less susceptible to interference than unguided media over shorter distances. However, unguided media provide mobility and are essential for broadcasting and long-distance communication where laying cables is impractical.

Understanding the distinction between guided and unguided transmission media is fundamental to comprehending how computer networks are built and operate.

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Important Questions from Miscellaneous

  1. A stone is thrown horizontally from the top of a 20 m high building with a speed of 12 m/s. It hits the ground at a distance R from the building. Taking g = 10 m/s2 and neglecting air resistance will give :

  2. A mass is attached to a spring that hangs vertically. The extension produced in the spring is 6 cm on Earth. The acceleration due to gravity on the surface of the Moon is one-sixth of its value on the surface of the Earth. The extension of the spring on the Moon would be:

  3. Directions: Each item in this section consists of a sentence with an underlined word followed by four words (a), (b), (c), and (d). Select the option that is opposite in meaning to the underlined word and mark your response in your Answer Sheet accordingly.

    The deluge affected the population.
  4. The major source of vitamins and minerals for vegetarians is

  5. Which of the following statements about the Deccan Riots Commission is/are correct?

    1. The Commission did not hold enquiries in the districts which were not affected.

    2. The Commission did record the statements of ryots, sahukars and eye-witnesses.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

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