repeater

1) A device that receives, amplifies (and sometimes reshapes), and retransmits a signal. It is used to boost signal levels and extend the distance a signal can be transmitted. In radio terms, the signal is usally recieved on a input frequency and then retransmitted on a different frequency (output or direct). 2) A network device that repeats signals from one cable onto one or more other cables, while restoring signal timing and waveforms. Repeaters are the most common way to connect local networks together, and can provide either Thinwire or Thickwire connections. They are commonly used to create larger local networks up to a certain limit based on the number of repeaters and the length of the cables. 3) A device inserted at intervals along a circuit to boost, and amplify an analog signal being transmitted. A repeater is sometimes needed because the quality and strength of a signal decays over distance. Repeaters are also used to regenerate a digital signal - "squaring it" and "cleaning it up" - but not changing it. You can regenerate digital signals because technology exists that can separate the actual signal from the noise, regenerating only the signal. No technology exists that can do this with analog signals. The simplest type of LAN interconnection device is a repeater. A repeater moves all received packets or frames between LAN segments. The primary function of a repeater is to extend the length of the network media, i.e. the cable. 4) someone who is repeatedly arrested for criminal behavior 5) a firearm that can fire several rounds without reloading