Ethernet Additional Hardware; Hubs; Switches; Wireless Lan - Yamaha Nexo NXAMP4X4 User Manual

NXES104 EXPANSION BOARD AND REMOTE CONTROL

Ethernet Additional hardware

Hubs

A hub (also known as repeater) is a central connection point for computers on a star-
topology-based network. Any data it receives is broadcasted to all ports, and then only the
computer that is 'listening' for the data actually receives and processes the transmission.
Hubs are the 'unintelligent' relatives of switches.
WARNING! Due to their internal architecture, repeater hubs MUST NOT be used in
Ethersound™ networks.

Switches

There are different types of switches, using different protocols that interact with other
protocols to provide all the necessary transmission services. The outline for implementing
protocols in altogether seven layers is defined in a worldwide ISO standard called OSI
(Open System Interconnection)
Layer 2, 3 or 4 switches
Layer 2 is the communication protocol that contains the physical address of a network
device. It is called the "data link layer" or "MAC (=Media Access Control) layer" and
contains the address inspected by a bridge or switch. Layer 2 processing is faster than
layer 3 processing, because less analysis of the frame is required. As the EtherSound
protocol contains exclusively layer 2 information, switches other than layer two must not
be used.
WARNING! Layer 3 and Layer 4 switches are not compatible with the
Ethersound™ networks. Only Layer 2 switches can be used.
These layer 2 switches can be either managed or unmanaged. Managed switches are
necessary to set up VLAN networks so that EtherSound can co-exist on a larger network
with other applications. Some switches provide functionalities of the so-called SPANNING
TREE PROTOCOL for inter-switch communication and network management. The
EtherSound protocol is NOT COMPATIBLE with the Spanning Tree Protocol (should be
disabled on manageable switches).

Wireless LAN

A local area network that transmits over the air typically (but not exclusively) in an
unlicensed frequency or, among others, infrared line of sight. Wireless access points (base
stations) are connected to an Ethernet hub or server and transmit a radio frequency that
can penetrate walls and other non-metal barriers. Roaming users can be handed off from
one access point to another like, for example, in a cellular phone system. Wireless LANs
are not suitable for EtherSound networks due to significant bandwidth limitations.
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