Therefore, the following is only meant to be interpreted very broadly, and is likely to be outdated. However, this information can still be useful for cost projections when considering what kind of network to install. Multiply the costs by the number of CPU's to be networked. A repeater works only at the physical layer. When the distance between nodes exceeds the network cable distance limit, a repeater will gather the packet, error-check it, and rebroadcast it at its original strength to extend the distance to the next node or hub.
Repeaters are very fast.
They may have an Out of Band Management port, or not. Be careful what you buy, and be sure to read the specifications sheet before you buy. Costs vary widely depending on these factors, so vendor comparisons are tricky. For example, a hub could have 16 RJ45 ports with one ST fiber port for connection to another closet. As the complexity of a network grows, ever more specific needs are defined, and those specific needs must be satisfied by the hub you purchase.