Twisted pair and multicore data cables are used to transmit information, they are primarily used in computer networking and telecommunication systems. RS offer a range of twisted pair and multicore data cables from leading brands including Alpha Wire, Belden, Lapp, Siemens and of course RS PRO. Our cables are available in a range of different sizes, outer jacket materials, lengths and shield types to suit every application.

Why use a twisted pair cable?

Generally, over a typical coaxial cable, twisted pairs are usually more accommodating in terms of flexibility and being able to bend them without significant loss in signal. The thickness of a coaxial cable can also attribute to the cost to produce, therefore the twisted offers a cheaper alternative whilst maintaining high quality.

Twisted pair cables are a type of cable that features two conductors on a single circuit, twisted together. The cores are then encased in an overall outer sheath typically PVC. When a wire is carrying its current, it naturally creates an electromagnetic field around that wire, therefore interfering with nearby cables. To reduce and eliminate this effect, twisted pairs carry signals in the opposite directions, so the two magnetic fields will occur at the opposite ends, essentially cancelling each other out. This is commonly known as cancellation.

Some common industry acronyms you might see are:

• U = unshielded
• F = foil shielding
• TP = twisted pair
• S = braided shielding

Applications for twisted-pair cabling

Twisted pairs are commonly used in telephone and data networks as they are reliable in exchanging high volumes of data at fast speeds all whilst remaining consistent at negating the crosstalk between the pairs and defending against any other external interference. Some twisted pair cables feature great resistance to fire and are sometimes halogen-free, making them ideal for public buildings like schools, offices or hospitals.

Shielded vs Unshielded Twisted Pair Cable

Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP) and Shielded Twisted Pair (STP) cables are both used for data, voice and signal transmission. The easy-to-install UTP transmits data and voice in a suitable frequency range for the user, with grounding cable not necessary and a low level of maintenance needed, making UTP cost effective.

STP requires grounding cable and requires far more maintenance. The key benefits are that the cable offers enhanced protection and generally produces better performance, over longer distances at higher speeds.

RS offer a number of value-adding solutions, including collect in store and Fast & Free Delivery.