In <[log in to unmask]>, on 03/15/99
   at 06:51 AM, Michael Beechey <[log in to unmask]> said:

>Dear Friends,

>I'm putting together a small network, for classroom use, no essential
>data transfer, maximum distance to hub 5 meters ( about 15 feet), using
>cheap NE2000 clone cards, 15 machine max.

Michael,

Coax and BNC connectors seem to win hands down in this kind of a
situation. You don't even need a hub of any kind. You just run a
backbone from one machine to the next with a T-connector at each machine
and 2 terminator resistors, one at each end of the backbone. You can
take a machine off line or put it back on again without causing any
problems on the network and installation is a breeze. You will only need
a single crimping tool to attach the BNC connectors.

Twisted pair can be made to allow higher data-transfer rates, but if
understand your requirments this will be of no notable benefit to you.
On top of it you will need much more "equipment," a wall socket for each
machine, transciever cables, a hub and diverse connectors and crimping
tools, plus a bit of testing equipment if you don't want to have lots of
headaches.

I run a thinnet coax network here at home, have 6 or more machines
running over a total distance of about 300 metres, add and remove
machines regularly. To add another machine you just add a length of
cable with connectors on both ends and move the terminator to the end of
the cable if necessary. It's a dream.

Best wishes to you.

Respectfully,

Bruce

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