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Multiple 4100U-S1 panels can be connected together into a network system by using
network interface cards (NICs). When a NIC is installed into a 4100U-S1, it is used to
connect to other network nodes. Nodes may consist of other 4100U-S1 or larger 4100U
panels, or they may be other types of node such as Graphical Command Centers (GCCs),
or Visual Command Centers (VCCs). A node is a self-sufficient CPU that controls
appliances and devices, and which also has the capability of controlling and
communicating with other nodes.
The network configuration supports two common architectures or wiring configurations:
ring or star. A networked system can also use a combination of the two.
The ring configuration consists of a number of nodes connected in a closed loop. The star
configuration consists of several nodes connected directly to one common node. Physical
bridge cards are used for the star configuration. Physical bridges reduce the amount of
wire that would otherwise be needed to connect all nodes in a loop, and therefore cut
down on system response time. However, the ring configuration is more secure against
cabling faults. A combination of the two styles is illustrated in
Figure 3-1.
Ring Topology
Physical Bridge Links
(Star Topology)
Graphic Command
Center (GCC)
Network Display Unit
(NDU) Hub Node
Distributed Remote
Node Locations
Figure 3-1. Ring/Star Configuration Example
Continued on next page
Network Configuration
Overview
Ring and Star
Configurations