We already know the definition of network cables , their uses and the different categories that exist on the market. Today it is the turn of the materials and technical specifications of these connectors. At tiendacables.es we want to explain all the physical properties of these cables so that you can know all their characteristics in detail.
Network cables are conductors of electricity and are therefore made from materials with excellent conductivity . Copper is normally the most commonly used material due to its low cost, although we can also find cables made from aluminium for high voltage lines. This is the conductive element, but cables have other parts, such as the insulation material that surrounds the conductor to protect the flow of current, as well as the material and filling layer that surrounds the conductors to favour the circular section and finally, the cover . The function of this is to mechanically protect the conductive material from the effects of the weather and different temperatures.
Cables also have a number of physical properties, such as the thickness of their wires, whether they are braided or have an aluminium screen. Network cable wires are usually braided in pairs in order to reduce electrical interference between them and between other external cables as much as possible. To achieve the best results from the cable, the braiding of the wires must be frequent. The more braiding, the less interference and the better results in long distances or environments with electrical installations and electromagnetic waves.
Network cables also differ in the type of sheath used to protect the cable and thus avoid interference or other effects such as crosstalk. The wire pairs are covered with a sheath, which can be thinner or thicker depending on the cable. Cable sheaths can be made of different materials such as fiberglass, PVC, silicone, polyester or polypropylene, among others.
On the other hand, another characteristic that defines and differentiates cables is the shielding or metallic coating . High-quality cables can have several types of shielding. In this case, network cables can be UTP, FTP, STP and SFTP. The main key between one and the other lies in the type of shielding. A shielding is essential when the cable is going to be used outdoors or together with other electrical cables.
- UTP : Not shielded.
- FTP : Unshielded pairs, but it does have a global screen between the sheath and the parts to improve the level of protection.
- STP : Each pair is individually covered by a conductive mesh (shielded).
- SFTP : This is a mixture of the above. It has a shield between the sheath and the cables and each pair is also individually shielded.
These types of cables are commonly used in LAN networks due to their low cost, flexibility and easy installation. In addition, they include more and more technological improvements with links of greater speed, length, etc. At tiendacables.com we have a wide range of network cables of all types, UTP, FTP as well as different categories and also network reels. What cable do you need? If you have any questions, we will advise you on your best option.