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  1. Project management
    QUESTION
    Define and discuss the types of topologies

 

Subject Technology Pages 20 Style APA

Answer

Telecommunications Project Management

Network Topologies

            The types of topologies include Mesh, Star, Bus, and Ring. Mesh topology is one where each device is connected to the other devices through a dedicated point-to-point link. The advantages of this topology is that it is very reliable and secure since the failure of one link will not affect the others and any unauthorized access is prevented (Singh, 2021). The disadvantage is that too many wires are used, making it tedious to connect. Also, there are scalability issues since a single device can only be connected with a specific number of devices in the dedicated point to point link.

            In star topology, each device is connected to a central device known as the hub. This topology is less expensive since only a single I/O port is needed (Singh, 2021). Hence, it is also easy to install as there are less cables to fix. Unfortunately, if the hub fails, all other devices will also stop working (Abu-Darwish, Almseidein & Aljundi, 2019). Hence, it requires regular maintenance.

            The bus topology features a main cable that all the devices are connected on with their drop lines. It is easy to install since all the wires will only need to be attached to the backbone cable. Also, it requires fewer cables than the other topologies (Abu-Darwish, Almseidein & Aljundi, 2019). However, its layout makes it difficult to detect the source of the issues in case of failure (Singh, 2021). Also, since only a limited number of nodes can be connected to the backbone cable, scalability is also impacted.

            In the ring topology, each individual device is connected to two others on either side of it, resulting in a ring shape (Singh, 2021). This option is very easy to install and to manage. The disadvantages are that a single link failure will lead to the failure of the entire network. Since all data has to circulate in the ring, data traffic issues will also be experienced.

Network Interface and Interconnect Devices

            A Network Interface Card is a device that must be installed on a network that aims to transmit and receive data. It is installed into one of the expansion slots available on a computer, just as a sound or graphics card is installed. A repeater is a non-intelligent network device that will receive a signal sent to one of its port, regenerates it, and then transmits it to all the remaining ports (Watanabe, 2019). Hence, it helps to deal with the issue of a loss of signal strength. Hubs are devices used in Ethernet networks. When a signal is received at any one of the available hub ports, it will be retransmitted to all the other ports.

Telecommunications Legislation

            In Australia, the telecommunications carriers are regulated by the Telecommunications Act 1997. However, it is supported by a series of other legislation, instruments and codes, which establish the universal service obligation in relation to standard telephone services in Australia, the ability of the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) to establish performance standards and obligations on carriers, and the requirement for carriage service providers to enter the Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman scheme (Churches, Murdocca, Zalnieriute & Bennett Moses, 2020).

Telecommunications Infrastructure

            The Telecommunications Legislation Amendment (Fibre Deployment) Bill 2011 features an amendment to the Telecommunications Act 1997 to offer support to the Government’s policy which requires that fibre-to-the-premises (FTTP) infrastructure should be effected in any new developments (“New powers to protect mobile phone users — Telecommunications (Fraud) Act 1997”, 1997). It is argued that it makes no sense to have new developments be serviced by old telecommunications technology, yet older premises have the new rolled out fibre network.

Work Health and Safety Requirements

            When developing a project plan, it is important to ensure that the health and safety requirements are properly addressed. The following areas must be considered. In electrical safety, workers can easily be electrocuted which may lead to burns and even the loss of life. This is especially true when naked wires are present, and no warning has been given to workers. Materials handling is also quite a concern since handling them wrongly can cause injuries. Lifting, carrying and pushing the materials can easily cause injury when the material falls (Bluff, 2019). Physical safety is also impacted when employees are exposed to extreme temperatures, radiation, UV rays, or even constant loud noise. Confined spaces pose a risk to employees since there can be a lack of sufficient oxygen supply or even build-up of water. Hence, it is easy for one to lose consciousness even when waiting to be rescued. Heights pose a risk of deadly falls. For instance, falling off the rooftop of a tall building will easily lead to injuries that can be beyond treatment (Bluff, 2019). Lifting, is also a major concern as materials can easily fall and crush employees.

VoIP in Telecommunications

            Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), is a form of technology which enables individuals to make voice calls through their broadband internet connection rather than the regular phone line (Kai, Zhe & Chunzhi, 2016). Some of these VoIP services may only allow one to call other people who are also on the same service. However, others may enable the user to call anyone who may have a telephone number. Also, there are certain VoIP services which will only work over the computer, while others may enable calls through a telephone that has been connected to a VoIP adapter (Meng, Ke & Hong, 2016).

            The VoIP works by converting voice into a digital signal that will then travel over the Internet. If one is calling a regular phone number, it is converted to a similar signal before reaching the destination (Kai, Zhe & Chunzhi, 2016). The VoIP allows one to make direct calls right from the computer, just as it enables a special VoIP phone or traditional phone to work. In areas where hot spots are available, one can connect to the internet and make the VoIP calls wirelessly.

            The kind of equipment that will be needed include a broadband connection and a computer, adapter, or specialized phone. The broadband connection can be offered through a cable modem or any other high speed service such a local area network. Some VoIP services can only work through a computer or special phone, while others need a traditional phone that is connected to a VoIP adapter (Meng, Ke & Hong, 2016). If one is using a computer, it is important to note that a software to support VoIP must be installed. A microphone that will be connected to the computer is also required. The specialised phones can be plugged directly into the broadband connection, after which it starts to operate quite similarly to the traditional telephone. If using a telephone that is connected to the VoIP adapter, one is able to dial as normal, and the service provider will even provide a dial tone.

Table 1: Telecommunications Equipment

Equipment 1

Landline Telephone

Type of Equipment:

Customer Premises Equipment

Key attributes:

-Offers stationary use

-Real-time conversation regardless of distance

-Use in calls with mobile phones as well as other stationary phones

Typical performance parameters:

– Higher performance/price ratio

Typical faults:

-Phone socket corrosion

-Old and worn phone point

-Faulty wiring

SLA/Warranty information:

Focuses on issues with

-Router

-the handset

-related wireless access points

-software provided

The provider offers customer support services, monitors incidents to completion, providing updates constantly, and confirming once an issue is resolved.

-It may take 8 hours to 10 days to resolve an issue depending on the incident level.

Equipment 2

Transmission Line

Type of Equipment

Transmission equipment

Key attributes:

-Offers connection from one device to another

Typical performance parameters:

-Higher performance/price ratio

Typical faults:

-Faulty connections on devices

SLA/Warranty information:

The focus is on the transmission lines offered by along with the telecommunications system.

-Constant monitoring in the month after installation.

-The parameters not being kept are compensated for accordingly.

SLA/Warranty information:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

-Network troubles are constantly tracked and documented

-Network availability and performance is monitored

-Real-time help desk

 

Types of Telecommunications Testing Equipment

            The network testing equipment features products such as protocol analysers, telephone testers, tone tracers, and even tone generators (Cable Organizers, n.d). The protocol analysers capture all the traffic on a medium before converting it based in the rules of the installed network protocols, and finally displays the results. The telephone testers are network testing equipment meant for use on the telephone lines and the telecommunications system (Cable Organizers, n.d). Tone tracers are used to monitor and trace the available tone in the telecommunication lines (Cable Organizers, n.d). Finally, tone generators produce the tone in the telecommunications systems. These network testing equipment differ based on the form factor, interface port, features, and even regulatory compliance. Wireless network test equipment is commonly available, but they must comply with the regulations set for the destinations (“Probabilistic Security Interface for IOT Devices in the Cloud Network”, 2020).

Requirements of the Project

            Milcom has been hired to help with the telecommunications requirements for two different sites of Demo Build Australia. The first is their display home Brisbane, while the other is their new head office building. The company hopes to be able to improve the communication channel with stakeholders in such a way that it offers timely and accurate information for effective planning and decision making. It also needs to facilitate communication so that improvements can be introduced in their operations where necessary.         Since Demo Build’s last contract with Milcom, the company has outgrown its current premises due to business and staff expansion. Hence, there are more staff who need to have their own devices included. In addition, the system needs to be designed in such a way that more devices can be added in future as the business is still expanding. The double storey building in Sydney will require an extensive system, unlike the model home in Brisbane. However, the company hopes to get an alternative that will be cost effective, while still handling the increasing number of staff as desired. Various telecommunication equipment will be needed, such as telephones, wireless internet connection, and many others. In addition, some of the staff handling the project will need special training, such as the heights training for the individual who will install the system on the double storey building.

Project Management Plan

Project Overview

            The current project features the installation of telecommunications network in two different locations. The first location features a double storey building with a complex layout, while the display home features a simple layout. The client requires that both locations be fitted with a network system. Hence, it is important that network planning and design is first completed for the client’s approval. Afterwards, hardware installation will be done, before testing is done to ensure that everything is performing as required. In case of any systemic failures, the team will have to trouble shoot and fix the problems. It is imperative that the team members are properly trained, especially since the head office will require working at height to install the network. The focus of this project will also feature VoIP installation. Therefore, it is important to consider an alternative that will support this feature, not only in the main building, but also across this building in Sydney and the one located in Brisbane. That is because real time communication is a major requirement for this client. It is expected that the project will be completed within six weeks.

Objectives

            Considering the client’s specifications and the nature of the buildings, the following objectives have been formulated;

  • To develop a cost-effective telecommunications system for the client.
  • To develop a network system that will support effective communication across the different floors of the main building, and also with the display home.
  • To enable real time communication through the installation of a VoIP system.
  • To install a network system that will feature provisions for future device installations and expansions in the main building.
  • To install a small network infrastructure in the display home.

Scope

            The project will start by conducting a network planning and design procedure. This will ensure that the client can get a virtual example of what Milcom hopes to install at their facilities. The design will indicate the type of network topology that will be used on all floors and buildings, showing how they will be connected. The plan will feature other considerations such as budgeting, equipment that will be needed, and even the expected timeline to completion. The project will also feature the hardware installation activities. Milcom team will have to install all the required hardware to help facilitate the telecommunication process. Aside from that, this company will also be required to conduct testing on all the installed equipment to ensure that they are all functioning as required. In case of any faults, Milcom will be required to cater for the loss by repairing the system. Lastly, team training is also an activity that Milcom will need to handle. To do this, the team will need to identify risks and consider the necessary training that must be offered to ensure the employees are safe and working with caution.

Assumptions, Constraints, and Risks

            For the purpose of this project, it is assume that there are two sites on which the network infrastructure will need to be implemented. One is located in Sydney, while the other is located in Brisbane. It is also assume that the client will only accept the cost-effective options. Hence, if there is a cheaper alternative, the client will most likely settle for that. It is assumed that the head office will need a network design that must consider the addition of devices and users in future. Therefore, the selected network topology should not focus on a specific number of people, but instead be capable of expanding as needed. Lastly, it is assumed that Brad Yu, the new staff member, will need special heights training since he will be the one to build and implement network at Demo Build head office.

            The constraints are that issues may arise with NBN Co. This is a publicly owned corporation by the Australian government which designs, builds, and operates Australia’s National Broadband Network. It is considered to be the country’s wholesale broadband provider. Hence, Milcom may not be able to comply with the set timelines. Also, after installation, the speed that is supplied may not be as expected or agreed upon. The products that are needed for the installations may not be easily supplied if the NBN Co. does not approve of Milcom. A problem is also expected with the Internet Service Provider since there are times when the network may fail. In such a case, there is nothing Milcom can do to assist Demo Build, aside from act as a mediator. When the CEO of Demo Build is presented with the budget, it is expected that another issue may occur when an agreement cannot be reached on the approximated costs. If the CEO hopes to complete the project on a very low budget, it may be impossible to develop an effective network system. Finally, structural issues are expected at both sites. It may be difficult to minimize costs when the topology needed is complex.

            A major risk for this project is the risk for falls. That is because the main office features a 1st floor that will also need to be fitted with the hardware. Therefore, the employee working on the installation will easily fall if measures are not taken to ensure his safety. Also, proper training is needed to help overcome this risk.

Deliverables

  • A cost-effective telecommunications system that is accepted by the client.
  • A network system that supports effective communication across the different floors of the main building, and also with the display home.
  • A VoIP system that promotes real time communication.
  • A network system that has provisions for future device installations and expansions in the main building.
  • A small network infrastructure installed in the display home.

Roles and Responsibilities

Table 2: Project Team Roles and Responsibilities

Name

Area of Specialty

Responsibilities

Student Name

Project Management

-Manage the project team

-Liaise with Demo Build’s project board that consists of the CEO and Operations Manager

-Develop the necessary project documentation

-Procure the necessary resources

-Identify risks and determine the training requirements for team members

Roy Belk

Software

-Handle the software installation and configuration process for the project

Martha Johannsson

Networking

-Oversee the network implementation at the Brisbane model home

Jenn Moss

Networking

-Plan, design, and build network for both sites

-Implement the network at the Demo Build head office

Brad Yu

Networking (Junior team member)

-Plan, design, and build network for both sites

-Implement the network at the Demo Build head office

 

Legal and Regulatory Requirements

            The project is expected to follow the regulations stipulated by the Telecommunications Act 1997. First, since the other building is in Brisbane, the law needs to be followed when considering installations across the two territories. Second, the law expects that the telecommunication process will be controlled as required. In relation to the telecommunications infrastructure, it is required that fibre-to-the-premises (FTTP) infrastructure should be effected in any new developments. Hence, the current project must only consider such installations to ensure that it does not go against the law.

Risk Management Plan

Table 3: Risk Management Plan

Risk

Likelihood

Severity

Treatment/ Control Methods

Late Completion

4

5

Ensure that proper time has been estimated for each activity

Lead time

4

4

Develop a critical path and work on reducing time for the activities identified

Hardware delivery

4

4

List all the required hardware and source for them prior to starting the project

Lack of specific resources

3

4

Determine all the necessary resources beforehand

Activities synchronization

3

4

Determine the dependent and independent activities

Electric power availability and connections

2

2

Check notifications to determine whether there are any schedules power outages in the region

Increased costs

2

4

Ensure the project is completed as scheduled

Customer not able to pay

4

5

Ensure the client provides a down payment, and that a contract has been signed.

Connectivity problems

3

4

Have a backup service provider, in case the current one experienced connectivity problems.

Underestimated or overestimated quantities

2

4

Determine an approximate quantity of the hardware required for each location based on the number of staff

Unexpected interference problems

3

4

Include the estimated time spent on such interferences in the current project timeline

Disconnection while conducting remote integration

4

5

Have a backup system in place

Unsatisfactory bandwidth

3

4

Ensure that an agreement is reached beforehand, with the ISP

Working at heights

4

5

Provide employee training on how to move around while reducing the risk of falling

Security issues

3

4

Provide employees with security personnel at every site

Site neighbourhood resistance

2

3

Check to ensure that the project is not experiencing any resistance

Weather conditions

2

2

Review the weather forecast of the region beforehand

Rework of completed tasks

4

4

Develop milestones where reviews will be conducted before proceeding to other activities

More than one site

2

5

Determine the number of sites beforehand

 

Work Breakdown Structure

  1. A cost-effective telecommunications system that is accepted by the client.

1.1 Develop a sample plan and system design

1.2 Assign costs

  • Present the design and budget samples to the client for approval
  • Introduce corrections that are in line with the client’s requirements
  1. A network system that supports effective communication across the different floors of the main building, and also with the display home.

2.1 Determine points that need to engage in communication

2.2 Identify points of device installation

  • Determine the required hardware and software
  1. A VoIP system that promotes real time communication.
    • Subscribe to the broadband connection
    • Purchase and install a computer, adapter, or specialized phone.
    • Ensure that the system is properly linked
  2. A network system that has provisions for future device installations and expansions in the main building.

4.1 Determine the network topology that will enable future connections (Star topology)

4.2 Install the cables and devices

4.3 Link to the network

  1. A small network infrastructure installed in the display home.

5.1 Identify a simple network topology (Bus topology)

5.2 Install the devices and link to the network

Project Procurement Plan

Table 4: Project Procurement Plan

Item

Quantity

Date Required

Vendor

Status

Cost

Distribute to

Computer

15

30/4/2021

NBN Co.

10%

$ 22,545

Milcom

Specialized Phones

15

3/5/2021

NBN Co.

0

$314.25

Milcom

Network adapters

2

15/4/2021

NBN Co.

20%

$120

Milcom

coaxial or RJ45 cable

1

15/4/2021

NBN Co.

100%

$3.30

Milcom

Twisted Pair
Fiber

22

15/4/2021

NBN Co.

100%

$ 66

Milcom

Switches

1

15/4/2021

NBN Co.

100%

$146.50

Milcom

Router

3

15/4/2021

NBN Co.

0

$540

Milcom

Wireless network cards

2

15/4/2021

NBN Co.

50%

$15

Milcom

total

 

 

 

 

$23,750.05

 

 

Training Plan

Table 5: Project Training Plan

Project Requirements:

-Install network system on two locations

-The head office requires installation on a double storey building

-Install equipment using star and bus topologies

Training needs to meet project requirements:

Learn how to install hardware safely on a double storey building while minimizing the risk for falls

Personnel to be trained:

-Brad Yu

Cost of Training:

-$20

Date of Training:

16/4/2021-17/4/2021

Training Provider:

Name: John Park

Address: 324, Sydney, Australia

Phone: 0400657980

Outcome of Training:

-Learn skill on how to navigate the top floor safely without risking a fall

 

Project Effort and Duration

Table 6: Project Schedule

Activity

Optimistic Estimation

Pessimistic Estimation

Most Likely

Estimated time

1.      A cost-effective telecommunications system that is accepted by the client.

1.1 Develop a sample plan and system design

1.2 Assign costs

1.3  Present the design and budget samples to the client for approval

1.4  Introduce corrections that are in line with the client’s requirements

5 weeks

7 weeks

6 weeks

6 weeks

2.      A network system that supports effective communication across the different floors of the main building, and also with the display home.

2.1 Determine points that need to engage in communication

2.2 Identify points of device installation

2.3  Determine the required hardware and software

2 weeks

4 weeks

3 weeks

3 weeks

3.      A VoIP system that promotes real time communication.

3.1  Subscribe to the broadband connection

3.2  Purchase and install a computer, adapter, or specialized phone.

3.3  Ensure that the system is properly linked

 

1 week

3 weeks

2 weeks

2 weeks

1.      A network system that has provisions for future device installations and expansions in the main building.

4.1 Determine the network topology that will enable future connections (Star topology)

4.2 Install the cables and devices

4.3 Link to the network

2 weeks

4 weeks

3 weeks

3 weeks

2.      A small network infrastructure installed in the display home.

5.1 Identify a simple network topology (Bus topology)

           5.2 Install the devices and link to the network

3 weeks

5 weeks

4 weeks

4 weeks

 

Estimated Project Cost

Table 7: Project Budget

Item

Cost ($)

Total Equipment Cost

23,750.05

Travel Expenses for 1 employee

200

Project team members:

 

Student (150 per hour)

5400

Roy (95 per hour)

3420

Martha (95 per hour)

3420

Jen (95 per hour)

3420

Brad (75 per hour)

            2700

Total

42,310.05

 

Project Verification Document

            To ensure that the budget is maintained at the desired level, the topologies that will be used will feature those that promote the use of fewer cables and nodes. Also, reviews will be conducted at the end of every deliverable to ensure that corrections are made before proceeding to the next phase. This will save costs as compared to completing all phases then realising a mistake that will need restarting the project activities. In addition, the schedule will be maintained at a maximum of 6 weeks. This will ensure that no extra costs are incurred, and that the completion date is maintained. Testing will be done at the end of every phase to check for errors that are in need of correction.

            To maintain team performance, the employees will be motivated to perform at their peak using positive reinforcement measures. At the end of every phase, the project team members will be rewarded if they have performed outstandingly. The rewards can be in the form of a raise, or simply a vacation that will be fully paid for at the end of the 6 weeks.

            The legislative and regulatory requirements that must be considered feature the Telecommunications Act 1997 (Churches, Murdocca, Zalnieriute & Bennett Moses, 2020). The law needs to be followed when considering installations across the two territories. The law expects that the telecommunication process will be controlled as required. In relation to the telecommunications infrastructure, it is required that fibre-to-the-premises (FTTP) infrastructure should be effected in any new developments. Thus, the current project must only consider such installations to ensure that it does not go against the law. 

Presentation of Draft

Email:

To: Judith Lee,

From: Student Name

Ref:

Kindly find the attached draft project management plan for your company Demo Build Australia. All the relevant project considerations have been addressed. I hope to meet with you on 7th May, 2021 to discuss the content.

 

 Best Regards.

 

3

Local Area Network (LAN)

Type of Equipment

Customer premises equipment

Key attributes:

-It is a private network

-It features higher speeds compared to other WAN systems

Typical performance parameters:

-Higher performance/price ratio

Typical faults:

-Faulty connections

-Improper wiring

References

Abu-Darwish, N., Almseidein, T., & Aljundi, A. (2019). Algorithm for Embedding Hybrid (Star-Bus) Topology onto Hex-Cell Topology. Journal Of Engineering And Applied Sciences14(7), 2042-2045. doi: 10.36478/jeasci.2019.2042.2045

Bluff, E. (2019). How SMEs respond to legal requirements to provide information, training, instruction and supervision to workers about work health and safety matters. Safety Science116, 45-57. doi: 10.1016/j.ssci.2019.02.036

Cable Organizers. (n.d). Network Testers. Retrieved from https://www.cableorganizer.com/network-testers/

Churches, G., Murdocca, M., Zalnieriute, M., & Bennett Moses, L. (2020). Review of the Effectiveness of the Telecommunications Legislation Amendment (International Production Orders) Bill 2020 (‘IPO Bill’). SSRN Electronic Journal. doi: 10.2139/ssrn.3597800

Kai, S., Zhe, G., & Chunzhi, M. (2016). VoIP transmission mechanism based on TCP. The Journal Of China Universities Of Posts And Telecommunications23(6), 90-96. doi: 10.1016/s1005-8885(16)60075-4

Meng, M., Ke, W., & Hong, J. (2016). Novel DTD and VAD assisted voice detection algorithm for VoIP systems. The Journal Of China Universities Of Posts And Telecommunications23(4), 9-76. doi: 10.1016/s1005-8885(16)60040-7

New powers to protect mobile phone users — Telecommunications (Fraud) Act 1997. (1997). Computer Law & Security Review13(3), 203-204. doi: 10.1016/s0267-3649(97)86906-3

Probabilistic Security Interface for IOT Devices in the Cloud Network. (2020). International Journal Of Recent Technology And Engineering8(5), 3454-3457. doi: 10.35940/ijrte.d4615.018520

Singh, C. (2021). Computer Network Topology – Mesh, Star, Bus, Ring and Hybrid. Retrieved from https://beginnersbook.com/2019/03/computer-network-topology-mesh-star-bus-ring-and-hybrid/

Watanabe, M. (2019). Realization of a multihop wireless controlled sensor and actuator network for cable installation. ICT Express5(4), 227-234. doi: 10.1016/j.icte.2019.09.003

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Appendix

Appendix A:

Communication Plan for an Inpatient Unit to Evaluate the Impact of Transformational Leadership Style Compared to Other Leader Styles such as Bureaucratic and Laissez-Faire Leadership in Nurse Engagement, Retention, and Team Member Satisfaction Over the Course of One Year

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