Cross-Layer or Hybrid Analysis and Recommendations

Learning Team B

(Joshua Ateefa, Jesse Cunningham, Joshua Healy, Steven Kirkham, Darryn Murphy)

NTC/406

July 14, 2014

Dr. Antonio Tovar

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Cross-Layer or Hybrid Analysis and Recommendations

This paper is intended to summarize, and give an overall assessment of a network over electrical power lines. It will also delve into the possible use of a combined Ethernet based wireless and wired network to develop a hybrid network. The paper will begin with an assessment of broadband over high-powered electrical cables, and end with the implications of using a hybrid network.

Broadband Over High-Powered Electrical Cables

This section is intended to contrast the advantages and disadvantages of using high-powered cables to transmit data versus other cables such as CAT 5 or fiber optic cables. Arguments may be made on behalf of both sides as to which is cheaper or more efficient.

English: Power Lines Power lines by the A639.

English: Power Lines.

Power lines in Suffolk England

Obviously power lines are the more prevalent medium of transmissions across the United States, as well as worldwide, unless you happen to live in an extremely remote region. However, other types of cabling are also now in place from coast to coast. Is one more dedicated than the other when it comes to data transmission? Broadband over Power Lines (BPL) may be carried together as they travel at different frequencies ("Broadband over Power Lines", 2013). On the other hand CAT 5 or fiber optic cables are a more dedicated means by which to transport data. Both mediums operate on the first layer of the OSI model. The following sections will discuss both mediums of transport.

BPL Technology

BPL, what this means essentially is being able to have the Internet through your regular power outlet...