Shielding for Data/Ethernet Cables
When it comes to choosing your data cables, you are facing so many possibilities.
Indeed, you will first need to choose the right category (by means of bandwidth and frequency), but you will also need to choose its shielding.
In order to help you choose the shielding for your data/Ethernet cable that matches your needs, we made a small guide below explaining the various shielding for data cables.
Understanding the Acronym
Every data/Ethernet cable shielding will be named following the same format: A/B TP.
- Where A defines the overall cable shield.
- Where B defines the twisted pairs shield.
Now that you understand the structure of the the acronym, you just have to know the following possibilities:
- U: stands for Unshielded.
- F: stands for Foil covering the twisted pairs.
- S: stands for Shielding in the form of a copper mesh or braid
- TP: stands for Twisted Pair.
Now for a quick explanation
Now that we understand the meaning behind the abbreviations for data/Ethernet cable shielding, let's dive in a little bit further.
U/UTP - Unshielded over Unshielded Twisted Pairs
This is the most basic Ethernet cable that you will be able to find. No shielding at all. It simply contains pairs of wires twisted together to help reduce and prevent electromagnetic interference.
Check out our premade U/UTP cables.
You are more a DYIer? Check out than our bulk U/UTP cables.
F/UTP - Foil over Unshielded Twisted Pairs
These cables have an overall simple foil shield wrapped around all 4 twisted pairs.
The foil shield acts as a barrier preventing external EMI/RFI from interfering with the twisted pairs. It also prevents data signals from leaking out of the cable, making the cable more difficult to tap and better for secure installations.
Check out our premade F/UTP cables.
You are more a DYIer? Check out than our bulk F/UTP cables.
S/UTP - Shield over Unshielded Twisted Pairs
These cables have an overall braid shielding, allowing for a certain flexibility while offering a near to 100% coverage (compared to a Foil shielding which covers 100% of the twisted pairs).
Check out our premade S/UTP cables.
You are more a DYIer? Check out than our bulk S/UTP cables.
U/FTP - Unshielded over Foiled Twisted Pairs
No overall shield, only foil screened twisted pairs. Typically used for permanent installation.
Check out our premade U/FTP cables.
You are more a DYIer? Check out than our bulk U/FTP cables.
F/FTP - Foil over Foiled Twisted Pairs
With this double Foiled shielding, this cable won't be impacted by any EMI/RFI interference. Neither the externals, neither between the Twisted Pairs.
Typically used in permanent installations with high EMI/RFI.
Check out our premade F/FTP cables.
You are more a DYIer? Check out than our bulk F/FTP cables.
SF/UTP - Shield & Foil over Unshielded Twisted Pairs
With this double shielding (Braid & Foil), this cable will be extremely resistant to external EMI/RFI. However, such cables come a certain price as they require a more elaborate manufacturing. These are often intended for mobile use as they are very flexible and durable.
Check out our premade SF/UTP cables.
You are more a DYIer? Check out than our bulk SF/UTP cables.
Shielded or Unshielded
Like with everything, there are pros and cons, and it's the same for the shielding of your data/Ethernet cable. So the decision must be made depending on your requirement.
An unshielded cable is cheaper and easier to install. Note that a shielded cable will take more space in your conduit (as they will often have a larger diameter).
However, whether you go for a STP or UTP cable, spare no expense on the cable quality. A good cable will grant you more years of service, avoiding you replacement maintenance cost.
