Network interface device: Difference between revisions

Revision as of 21:22, 9 February 2008

Revision as of 03:46, 10 February 2008

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==Meanings of the term==

A network interface, also commonly referred to as a [[smart jack]], is a [[loop-back]] device<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.gl.com/bert.html | title = T1/E1 Bit Error Rate Testing | accessdate = 2008-02-09 | publisher = GL Communications}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.westell.com/transport-and-termination/proact-2.html | title = 3125 Series T1 Network Interface Unit Stat Sheet| accessdate = 2008-02-09 | publisher = Westell}}</ref> that serves as the point of demarcation between the end user's inside wiring and local access carriers' facilities. These devices are commonly located in the basement, first floor telco room, garage, or even outside the building in weatherproof enclosures, but can be located anywhere the LEC wishes to place it. NIUs are multi-functional devices, which include a protector block to prevent high-voltage surges from affecting premise equipment and inside wiring.

A network interface, also commonly referred to as a [[smart jack]], can be located in the basement, first floor telco room, garage, or even outside the building in weatherproof enclosures. NIUs are multi-functional devices, which include a protector block to prevent high-voltage surges from affecting premise equipment and inside wiring.{{Fact|date=October 2007}} It also can allow the carrier to initiate a [[loop-back]] test from the central office to test the integrity of the local loop.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.gl.com/bert.html | title = T1/E1 Bit Error Rate Testing | accessdate = 2008-02-09 | publisher = GL Communications}}</ref>

*NIUs are loopable devices used by LECs to test the local loop and isolate problems, allowing the LEC to run paterns to the front of the smartjack. When the CSU is no longer avaliable the NIU is designed to send an AIS alarm back to the LECs CO.

*A device that performs [[Network interface|interface]] functions, such as [[code conversion]], [[Communications protocol|protocol]] conversion, and buffering, required for [[information transfer|communications]] to and from a [[telecommunications network|network]].

*A device used primarily within a [[local area network]] (LAN) to allow a number of independent devices, with varying protocols, to communicate with each other.

An NID converts each device protocol into a common [[transmission (telecommunications)|transmission]] protocol.{{fact}}

The transmission protocol may be chosen to accommodate directly a number of the devices used within the network without the need for protocol conversion for those devices by the NID.{{fact}}

==Common practice==