Abstract: The invention provides a method for transmitting packets in a network from multiple data sources, by eliminating contention among local transmitters in the network. A device comprises a CPU and other modules that accept input from various signal sources. The device processes the signals from the various sources, converts the signals to data and then outputs the signal data in the form of packets which it sends via a LAN and/or WAN, thus avoiding contention on the LAN. The invention may initiate and receive connections via the LAN or WAN and begin transmitting over the LAN or WAN at agreed-upon rates without contention.