Fundamentals of Data Communication: Level 1
Course Specifications
Course number: 085976
Software: 
Course length: 1.0 day(s)
Course Description
Data communication forms an important part of telecommunications. Over the years, the telecommunications industry has witnessed tremendous growth in its coverage area and quality of service due to the advent of new technologies. There are numerous devices, networks, and systems that constitute the working of a data communication model. In this course, you will learn the fundamentals of data communication. 
Course Objective: You will learn the fundamentals of data communication.

Target Student: This course is for beginners, IT managers, or other professionals, who want to know the basics of data communication networks. Specifically, it is intended for those preparing for entry-level jobs in the telecommunications field but do not have prior academic background or technical work experience. The basic information presented in this course will enable students to pursue further specialized training in specific technology areas.

Prerequisites: Students should have taken the Introduction to Telecommunication course from Element K or have equivalent knowledge.

Delivery Method: Instructor led, group-paced, classroom-delivery learning model with structured hands-on activities.
Hardware Requirements
You will need a computer for the instructor. Computers are not mandatory for the students, but will be helpful for them to have access to the Internet while discussing specific points. The following hardware requirements are the minimum suggested for this course: 
•	Intel® Pentium® IV processor
•	256 MB of RAM
•	4 GB of hard disk space
•	CD-ROM or DVD drive
•	VGA or higher video
•	Keyboard and mouse
•	Display system to project the instructor’s computer screen
•	Internet access
Platform Requirements
•	Microsoft® Windows® XP
Software Requirements
•	This course does not require any specific software to be used in a classroom setup.
Performance-Based Objectives
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to: 
•	explore the basics of data communication.
•	explore the different models of data communication.
•	examine the different data transmission techniques.
•	explore the different types of network topologies.
•	examine the classification of networks based on their coverage area.
•	explore the network media used in data communication.
•	explore the different devices used in a network and their use.
Course Content
Lesson 1: Basics of Data Communication
Topic 1A: Overview of Data Communication
Topic 1B: Representation of Data

Lesson 2: Data Communication Models
Topic 2A: The OSI Model of Data Communication
Topic 2B: The TCP/IP Model of Data Communication

Lesson 3: Basic Techniques of Data Communication
Topic 3A: Data Transmission Modes
Topic 3B: Analog Modulation
Topic 3C: Digital Modulation
Topic 3D: Multiplexing Techniques
Topic 3E: Switching Techniques

Lesson 4: Network Topologies
Topic 4A: Bus Topology
Topic 4B: Ring Topology
Topic 4C: Star Topology
Topic 4D: Mesh Topologies
Topic 4E: Tree Topology
Topic 4F: Hybrid Network Topologies

Lesson 5: Types of Networks
Topic 5A: Local Area Networks
Topic 5B: Metropolitan Area Networks
Topic 5C: Wide Area Networks

Lesson 6: Network Media Used in Data Communication
Topic 6A: Twisted Pair Cables
Topic 6B: Coaxial Cables
Topic 6C: Fiber Optic Cables
Topic 6D: Fiber Optic Data Communication
Topic 6E: Media Used in Submarine Networks

Lesson 7: Devices Used on a Network
Topic 7A: Network Interface Cards
Topic 7B: Modems
Topic 7C: Network Hubs
Topic 7D: Switches
Topic 7E: Routers
Topic 7F: Gateways
Topic 7G: Repeaters