A lab has 10 computers. Each computer must be connected to a central network…
2026
A lab has 10 computers. Each computer must be connected to a central network in one of two ways:
Option 1: Bus topology
A single backbone cable of 45 m is used, and each computer requires a 2 m drop line to the backbone
Option 2: Star topology
Each computer is connected directly to a central switch using 8 m cable.
Find the total cable length required in each topology and state which uses less cable.
Attempted by 7 students.
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Given Data
Number of computers = 10
Option 1: Bus Topology
Backbone cable = 45 m
Drop line per computer = 2 m
Cable Length in Bus Topology
Total drop line length = 10 × 2 = 20 m
Total cable required:
Total = Backbone + Drop lines = 45 + 20 = 65 m
Option 2: Star Topology
Each computer requires 8 m cable to central switch
Total cable required:
Total = 10 × 8 = 80 m
Comparison
Bus Topology = 65 m
Star Topology = 80 m
Conclusion
Bus topology requires less cable compared to star topology.
Hence, Bus topology is more cable-efficient in this scenario.
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