NEW
FOREST
ELECTRONICS |
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Introduction to network "TAPs" |
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A "TAP" creates a permanent
in-line access port to monitor full-duplex network traffic without data-stream
interference:-

This example shows how a single
port UTP TAP is connected inline with a computer network. The monitoring
equipment may then be connected to the
network via the TAP as and when required, without disruption. Using two cables
as shown allows monitoring of traffic in both
directions at the same time (full-duplex).
Why buy
when I could make one from four RJ45 jack sockets and some twisted pair
cable? |
Answer: to avoid the wrath of your
network users and company bosses. Impedance mismatches mean that at best
homemade TAPs are liable to cause substantial errors and packet loss, to say
nothing of downtime whilst getting them to work. If you are fiddling around at
home, that's fine. However at work, never place homebrew TAPs inline with a
critical production host or network. Don't say you weren't warned! With Gigabit
networks, don't even think about it. Just contact us!
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