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Chapter 1

Planning a Network Topology

Most users in a typical office are well served by a standard desktop computer as a

workstation, but you still must choose the type of case the computer will have. Mini-

tower cases are ideal if the computer will be located under the desk, and they usually

provide sufficient room inside the case for adding new drives and other components.

However, you should take into account that having the computers on the floor makes

access more difficult for technical support personnel and might require extra-long

cables for the monitor, mouse, and keyboard. The horizontal cases in small form are

better suited for placement on the user’s desks and generally provide easier mainte-

nance access, but they tend to take up more room than most users would like.

Tip

One development in PC hardware that is useful in saving desktop space is inexpensive

LCD (liquid crystal display) flat panel monitors. These monitors take up far less space than

traditional CRT (cathode ray tube) models and, being lighter, are much easier to move around

the desk as needed.

In some offices, every user has a desk and every desk has a computer. However, this

is not always the case. For example, your network might require kiosk-style worksta-

tions that different people use throughout the day. In this case, the network blueprint

should specify a location for the kiosk that is convenient for users and provides other

resources they need, such as desktop space and printer access.

Some users do not need standard desktop workstations, and you should note these in

the blueprint as well. People who use laptops or other portables as their primary com-

puters might need docking stations on their desks, or they might only need access to

a cable jack providing a network connection.

Locating Peripherals

The locations of printers and other shared components are an important element of the

network blueprint. In this case, the primary concern is ergonomics. Select locations for

printers that provide convenient access for the users but are far enough away to avoid

interference and discomfort. Some types of printers release ozone and other gases dur-

ing their operation that can be irritating or even toxic to some people. However, plac-

ing all printers in a closed room at the far end of the hall is likely to be inconvenient

to everyone.

When considering printer locations, you should take into account maintenance

access to the machine and also proximity to expendable supplies, such as paper,

toner, and ink. In some cases, you might also have to consider the physical security

of the printer. For example, you might want to make sure that an expensive color

printer with a high per-page printing cost be kept in a locked room so that only

authorized personnel can use it.