ProSoft Technology ILX34-AENWG - Manual (Page 50)

PSW-PWD ♦ ProSoft Software Glossary of Terms
ProSoft Wireless Designer User Manual
Page 50 of 91
ProSoft Technology, Inc.
July 8, 2009
MIMO
Multiple Input Multiple Output refers to using multiple antennas in a WiFi device
to improve performance and throughput. MIMO technology takes advantage of a
characteristic called multipath, which occurs when a radio transmission starts out
at Point A and the reflects off or passes through surfaces or objects before
arriving, via multiple paths, at Point B. MIMO technology uses multiple antennas
to collect and organize signals arriving via these paths.
Modbus
The Modbus protocol provides the internal standard that the MODICON®
controllers use for parsing messages. During communications on a ModBus
network, the protocol determines how each controller will know its device
address, recognize a message addressed to it, determine the kind of action to be
taken, and extract any data or other information contained in the message. If a
reply is required, the controller will construct the reply message and send it using
ModBus protocol.
Modem
Stands for MODulator-DEModulator, a device that converts digital signals to
analog signals and vice-versa. Analog signals can be transmitted over
communications links such as telephone lines.
N
Network
A series of stations or nodes connected by some type of communication medium.
A network may consist of a single link or multiple links.
Node
An address or software location on the network.
Null Modem Cable
A specialty cross-communication cable with female connectors on each end used
for direct connection between devices when no modems are present. Commonly
used as a quick and inexpensive way to transfer files between two PCs without
installing a dedicated network card in each PC.
P
Panel Antenna
An antenna type that radiates in only a specific direction. Panel antennas are
commonly used for point-to-point situations. Sometimes called Patch antennas.
Parabolic Antenna
An antenna type that radiates a very narrow beam in a specific direction.
Parabolic antennas offer the highest gain for long-range point-to-point situations.