Ethernet is the most common type of connection computers use in a local area network (LAN). An Ethernet port looks much like a regular phone jack, but it is slightly wider. This port can be used to connect your computer to another computer, a local network, or an external DSL or cable modem.
Two widely-used forms of Ethernet are 10BaseT and 100BaseT. In a 10BaseT Ethernet connection, data transfer speeds can reach 10 mbps (megabits per second) through a copper cable. In a 100BaseT Ethernet connection, transfer speeds can get up to 100 mbps. There is also a new technology called "Gigabit" Ethernet, where data transfer rates peak at 1000 mbps.
Benefits of Metro Ethernet
- Lower prices for higher speeds
- Cost saving by utilizing your existing corporate network for your main system backbone
- Fast high performance that is constantly being improved upon
- Flexibility in upgrading speed without equipment changes
- Flexible capacity, or "bandwidth on demand, to help businesses with variations in traffic without the high costly expense of having it on reserve.
Metro Ethernet is based upon a baseband network that uses a single channel for communications between stations. This differs from the widely popular broadband network where different services communicate on several different frequencies.
Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) or "Active Ethernet"
Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) or "Active Ethernet" eliminates the need to run 110/220 VAC power to Wireless Access Points and other devices on a wired LAN. Using Power-over-Ethernet system installers need to run only a single CAT5 Ethernet cable that carries both power and data to each device. This allows greater flexibility in the locating of AP's and network devices and significantly decreasing installation costs in many cases.
PoE is commonly used to power IP Phones, wireless access points and hubs to name a few, but the technology is comparable to a traditional POTS ( Plain Old Telephone Service) that derive both power and data, but in analog not digital.
Installation of Metro Ethernet
The installation process of Metro Ethernet can be lengthy, but most companies agree it is well worth the wait. Facilities for Ethernet must be installed at the premise by connecting the dark fiber that is already in the ground and trenching it to a building where at that point the fiber is then lit (activated). There is an over abundance of dark fiber in the ground waiting to be utilized from businesses.
