Week 6 Notes

Wikipedia: Local Area Network
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Local_Area_Network
Local Area Network (LAN)- computer network that covers a small area
- generally have higher data transfer rates
- lack on need for leased communication lines
- ethernet, twisted pair, and wi-fi are currently most popular
- Were originally created for use in universities, but they have clearly advanced over time with the evolution of home computers.
- Brief article highlighting LANs and their history. I liked this article because it was simple, and wasn’t confusing at all. I actually knew a lot of the information, which honestly sort-of surprised me.

Wikipedia: Computer Network
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Computer_network
Computer network- group of interconnected computers, allowing computers to communicate with each other across a network.
- classified by the hardware and software that is used to connect them (optical fiber, Ethernet, wireless LAN, home PNA, g.hn)
- there are wired technologies (twisted pair, coaxial cable, fiber optics), and wireless technologies (radio waves)
- networks differ in scale, scope and purpose
- this article is a little longer, with a lot more information. Although the information is pretty straightforward, the different cables and connections can be somewhat confusing.

YouTube: Common Types of Networks
Video source that talks about networks and reviews the information from the wikipedia articles.

Coyle, K. (2005). Management of RFID in libraries. Journal of Academic Librarianship, 31(5), 486-489.
http://www.kcoyle.net/jal-31-5.html
Management of RFID in libraries (Radio Frequency Identifier)- consists of a computer chip and an antenna on flexible medium (like paper)
- example: like a barcode (very helpful)
- Powerful, and carries information about the item (number, call code, etc).
- All different types of RFID tags, using different technologies
- Some institutions don’t want to use RFIDs because of privacy
- Can be used for security, and for lending purposes
- Embracing of technology (only when useful)
- Could help save money in long run (using less staff)
- Not high levels of user-satisfaction yet
- Could be really useful for use on new technology (CDs)
- Although it “will” become s standard in due time, still several concerns need to be worked through