Concentrator; Thin-Net /Thick-Net; Node; Segment And Branch - GE Solar 7000 Service Manual

EQUIPMENT OVERVIEW: More About Ethernet Communication

Concentrator

Thin-net /Thick-net

Node

Segment and Branch

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The concentrator is simply a transceiver that passes all network data
between any two branches in the LAN. Note that the concentrator passes
all network data between the two branches, regardless of whether or not
one node is sending data to another node on the same branch.
Thick-net and thin-net is not the most recommended type of network, but
are used in special situations. Both thick-net and thin-net use a bus
topology and connect any number of devices. Each device is tapped into a
straight data bus or trunk. A thick-net or thin-net cable is used for the
main trunk to provide fast data transmission, but is difficult to install
and harder to work with.
Each network device or node is assigned an address number and requires
a transceiver to interface between the network device and the network.
For thick-net and thin-net cabling a transceiver and a serial drop cable
connects to the main trunk. The serial drop cable is sometimes referred
to as an AUI (attachment unit interface) transceiver cable. For twisted
pair cabling, the transceiver to connected directly to the network device.
Some Ethernet systems are comprised of smaller, stand-alone Ethernet
systems (called branches or segments) that are connected by bridges,
concentrators, or repeaters. Many nodes on the Ethernet network may be
serviced by one segment or branch. Each segment may support many
patient monitors, central stations, and auxiliary devices.
For example, one segment may connect all the patient monitors and
central stations in the ICU (Intensive Care Unit) and another may
connect the monitoring system in the CCU (Critical Care Unit). Each
segment could be a fully-functioning stand-alone system if they were not
connected to each other. However, with a bridge or repeater to connect
the ICU (one segment) with the CCU (the other segment), information
can pass between any of the nodes (patient monitors and central
stations) on either branch similar to a patient transfer from one unit to
another.
Solar 7000/8000/View Patient Monitor
414993-001
Revision J