Which is the best Buy: Shielded and Unshielded Ethernet Cables?

Which factors should you consider before buying shielded or unshielded Ethernet cable?

Most ethernet cable is unshielded as it is much cheaper and easier to work with. Shielded cable comes in three different types and will cost more when compared to unshielded. Unless you have a lot of EMI (Electromagnetic interference) - like in an industrial setting you don't need shielded.

For general home use unshielded is fine. It is much easier to work with as making connections is easier - although having run a lot of it I will say creating connections and putting ends on can drive a person to a new level of frustration. ;D

Here is an article that explains the different types and where each is used: http://www.tektel.com/b1/shielded-vs-unshielded-cable/

Lisa

Typically, shielded cable is used when run alongside electrical wiring or similar to prevent cross-talk from signaling in other wires. Unshielded is the most commonly used type, and it's also "what's inside" of shielded cabling. The name, UTP, actually means Unshielded Twisted Pair.

Ember1205 said:

Typically, shielded cable is used when run alongside electrical wiring or similar to prevent cross-talk from signaling in other wires. Unshielded is the most commonly used type, and it's also "what's inside" of shielded cabling. The name, UTP, actually means Unshielded Twisted Pair.

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Whoa..I thought it was Undies in a Twisted Pair..good thing I never expanded the acronym then..

Raz0rEdge said:

Whoa..I thought it was Undies in a Twisted Pair..good thing I never expanded the acronym then..

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All you need is to add a jock strap and a cup and you'd be protected and shielded.

:Blushing:


If the OP is really interested:
How To Determine When Shielded Network Cabling Is Required
http://www.electronicdesign.com/components/how-determine-when-shielded-network-cabling-required


Why Use Shielded Cat 6 Cable vs. Unshielded Cat 6 cable?
http://www.l-com.com/why-use-shielded-cat-6-cable-vs-unshielded-cat-6-cable




- Patrick
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Thanks to everyone for great reply.

@Antonio

AntonioCrocombe said:

Thanks to everyone for great reply.

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BTW: I don't know what use the cabling you may need is for, and in case it wasn't mentioned, some places (building and insurance codes) require flame-proof ethernet wiring in wall cavities/plenums/air ducts etc. so as to not invalidate some fire insurance. And can apply to Shielded and Unshielded cables. Best to check if thats applicable or a concern.

AntonioCrocombe said:

Which is the best Buy: Shielded and Unshielded Ethernet Cables?

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Also, if you are looking for the best buy, I highly recommend Monoprice for their combination of quality and low price:

https://www.monoprice.com/search/index?keyword=cat+5+ethernet+cable

I'll second that recommendation. The prices are usually very good and the one or two times that I've called/emailed them with questions they have been quite knowledgeable.