Ethernet Cable Shielding Architectures
Ethernet Cable Shielding Architectures: UTP, FTP, STP, and S/FTP Performance Characteristics and Deployment Decisions Electromagnetic interference (EMI) represents the primary technical driver for cable shielding selection. Understanding EMI mechanisms clarifies why different shielding architectures suit distinct deployment environments and why universal shielding represents unnecessary cost premium in many applications. Electromagnetic fields radiate from conductors carrying AC current. High-frequency signals (megahertz to gigahertz ranges) generate measurable electromagnetic radiation that propagates through space and couples into adjacent conductors. This radiated EMI appears as noise in victim circuits, degrading signal-to-noise ratio and increasing bit error rates. Conducted EMI represents second interference mechanism. Common-mode noise (voltage fluctuations on shield and return paths) couples into signal conductors through capacitive and inductive coupling. Unshielded cables lac...