ETHERNET • 265
Network architecture
Modular I/O System
ETHERNET TCP/IP
5.1.2 Network
topologies
In the case of 10Base-T several stations (nodes) are connected using a star to-
pology according to the 10Base-T ETHERNET Standard.
Therefore, this manual only deals with the star topology, and the tree topology
for larger networks in more detail.
Star topology
A star topology consists of a network in which all nodes are connected to a
central point via individual cables.
Fig. 5-4: Star topology
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A star topology offers the advantage of allowing the extension of an existing
network. Stations can be added or removed without network interruption.
Moreover, in the event of a defective cable, only the network segment and the
node connected to this segment is impaired. This considerably increases the
fail-safe of the entire network.
Tree topology
The tree topology combines characteristics of linear bus and star topologies. It
consists of groups of star-configured workstations connected to a linear bus
backbone cable. Tree topologies allow for the expansion of an existing net-
work, and enables schools, etc. to configure a network to meet their needs.
Backbone
Cable
Concentrator
(Hub)
Nodes
Nodes
Fig. 5-5: Tree topology
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