Which One to Choose: UTP Vs STP Cables for Your Network
Choosing accessories for your network and computer is one of the most difficult jobs that exist. Especially if you don’t know a lot about cables. When choosing an Ethernet cable, you get two options. Either you can go with a Shielded Twisted Pair (STP) cable or an Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP).
Deciding on which cable to choose can be a difficult task, especially if you don’t have much knowledge about them. It is crucial to know what these cables are and the differences between them. So that you don’t end up making the wrong decision. The debate on UTP Vs STP is an endless one. However, in this article, we will compare both these cables to give you a clear idea of what they are and which one is the best option for you.
When it comes to Ethernet cables, you need to make the right decision to get the best results. Before we go ahead, it would be best to understand why there are UTP and STP cables and the difference between them.
Why are There UTP and STP Cables?
When we talk about data communication, in cables, there is an electromagnetic Interface (EMI) that is also referred to as Radio Frequency Interference (RFI). These interferences are disturbances that are caused due to an external source that affects the electrical circuit. There are many reasons for the electrical circuit being damaged that, may include electromagnetic induction,
The sources of disturbance can be either man-made or natural. Some of the natural sources include heat from the sun, thunderstorms, and other such incidents. Whereas, man-named sources cell phones, vehicles ignition systems, and more. Most of the time EMI is responsible for data error and influencing the transmission quality of the cables. To protect the cabling system, shielding is applied to avoid such disturbances and interferences.
What is an STP Cable?
Shielded Twisted Pair (STP) contains a shield that is composed of copper tape. This layer is made from conducting polymer or braid that is mostly composed of copper or aluminum. Shields can come in a variety of types. These include foil, braided shield, or screening. Screening is used to make different levels of shielding which includes ST, SSTP (Screen Shielded Twisted Pair), and FTP (Foil Twisted Pair). The shield can be applied to all cables altogether or it can also be applied to each pair of cables separately.
Benefits of STP Cables:
There is a wide range of benefits of STP cables but one of the main reasons to choose this particular cable type is because it reduces EMI. In buildings that contain microwave equipment, STP is best for increasing data transmission quality. It also helps in blocking interferences that are generated by power tools. When compared with UTP cables, STP cables perform considerably better in terms of reducing interferences.
STP cables are known for reducing crosstalk’s, given that the installation and maintenance are done properly. These cables are constructed in a way that they can resist signals from passing through the outer coating. It also resists entering nearby wires accidentally. If your building contains numerous networking devices, it is necessary to use STP cables.
What is a UTP Cable?
UTP cables are comparatively lighter and thinner than STP cables. These cables don’t have shielding. Therefore, reduce the EMI through the twisted pairs of cables. You might not find UTP cables efficient enough when compared with STP cables. However, UTP cables are a great option for you if you need thin and undetectable cables for your workplace.
The performance difference between the two cables is substantial. The main thing to know when deciding on which cable to choose is the preference for your business. If your requirement is that you need disguisable cables that are thin and light-weighted, the best choice would be to buy UTP cables.
Advantages of UTP Cables:
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Conclusion:
If you are looking for maintaining the best performance for your network, it is important to know which Ethernet cable you should use. Two different types of cables UTP and STP serve different purposes. The above-stated article will provide you with a clear idea of what they are and for what purpose they are used.
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