By Eileen Harvey
When designing or upgrading an industrial network, choosing between shielded and unshielded Ethernet cables is more than a technical detail—it’s a decision that can determine signal reliability, downtime risk and long-term system performance.
Industrial environments introduce unique challenges such as electromagnetic interference (EMI), mechanical stress and exposure to harsh conditions. Selecting the right cable type ensures your Category 5e, Cat6 or Cat6a industrial Ethernet cables maintain optimal data transmission even in demanding settings.
Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP) Cables
UTP cables consist of pairs of twisted conductors without additional shielding. The twist in the wires helps cancel out some interference, making them lighter, more flexible and cost-effective. Their advantages include lower cost, being lightweight and easy to install, flexibility for routing through tight spaces and adequate performance in low-interference environments. However, UTP cables are more susceptible to EMI and crosstalk and are not ideal for high-noise industrial areas.
Browse industrial Ethernet cables from L-com to see UTP options for general industrial networking.
Shielded Twisted Pair (STP/FTP) Cables
Shielded cables include an additional conductive layer of foil, braid or both that surrounds each pair or the entire bundle. This shielding blocks external electromagnetic and radio frequency interference. Their advantages include superior EMI and RFI protection, reduced crosstalk between cable pairs, reliable high-speed performance in noisy environments and better suitability for long cable runs near industrial equipment. The limitations are slightly higher cost, thicker and less flexible construction compared to UTP, and the requirement for proper grounding to function effectively.
For example, L-com’s shielded industrial Ethernet cables offer rugged designs for demanding automation and outdoor use.
When to Use Shielded Industrial Ethernet Cables
Shielded cables are ideal in EMI-heavy environments where unshielded cables could lead to data loss, errors or downtime. They are commonly used near heavy machinery such as motors, conveyors and welders, in data centers and control rooms where high cable density increases crosstalk, in outdoor installations exposed to power lines and radio transmitters, in high-speed applications like 10 Gigabit Ethernet, and in medical equipment environments where sensitive devices require noise-free signal transmission.
When to Use Unshielded Industrial Ethernet Cables
Unshielded cables are best for controlled environments with minimal interference, offering easier handling and lower costs. They are suitable for office spaces inside industrial buildings with low EMI, short cable runs with less exposure to interference sources, non-critical applications where occasional interference will not disrupt operations, and cost-sensitive projects where budget-conscious installations are required.
Types of Shielding in Industrial Ethernet Cables
Not all shielding is the same. FTP (foiled twisted pair) has an overall foil shield that is lightweight yet effective for general EMI. STP (shielded twisted pair) uses braided shielding for robust mechanical and EMI protection. S/FTP (screened foiled twisted pair) combines braid and foil for maximum interference protection. F/UTP features foil around all pairs with unshielded pairs inside. Understanding these differences helps match the shielding type to the severity of your environment.
Choosing the Right Cable for Your Application
Several factors should guide your decision. Assess EMI levels by considering proximity to high-voltage lines, motors or RF sources. Consider cable length, since longer runs are more vulnerable to interference. Evaluate speed requirements because higher data rates benefit from shielding. Think about flexibility needs, as UTP is easier to handle in tight spaces. Finally, balance budget and performance since shielding adds cost but can prevent expensive downtime.
The decision between shielded and unshielded industrial Ethernet cables depends on environmental conditions, network requirements and budget. Choose shielded if you are in a high-EMI environment, need maximum reliability or run high-speed connections over long distances. Choose unshielded if your environment is controlled, interference is minimal and cost or flexibility is a higher priority.
Installation Tips for Industrial Ethernet Cables
Shielded cables must be properly grounded to work effectively. Without grounding, they may act like antennas and worsen interference. Ethernet cables should be kept separate from high-voltage power cables whenever possible. For outdoor use, ensure the cable is UV-resistant and rated for outdoor environments, such as those with CMX or IP-rated jackets. Always follow standards like TIA/EIA-568 guidelines for proper cabling practices.
Cost Considerations
Shielded cables cost 20–50% more than unshielded ones due to additional materials and manufacturing complexity. However, in noisy environments they prevent downtime costs, making them a better long-term investment.
Standards and Compliance
When choosing between STP and UTP, look for compliance with TIA/EIA-568 (U.S. structured cabling standard), ISO/IEC 11801 (international cabling standard), UL-listed safety ratings and industrial Ethernet-specific standards like EtherNet/IP and PROFINET. Selecting the right cable is an investment in network stability and operational uptime.
FAQs
Q1: Can I mix shielded and unshielded cables in the same network?
A: Yes, but the shielding benefits are only as strong as the weakest link. If part of the network uses unshielded cables in high-noise areas, you may still experience interference.
Q2: Do shielded cables need special connectors?
A:Yes, shielded cables require shielded RJ45 connectors to maintain EMI protection throughout the connection.
Q3: Are shielded cables always better?
A:Not necessarily. They offer better protection in noisy environments but are more expensive and harder to install in tight spaces.
Q4: What’s the lifespan of industrial Ethernet cables?
A:With proper installation, both shielded and unshielded cables can last 10–20 years, but environmental conditions may shorten their lifespan.
The choice between shielded and unshielded industrial Ethernet cablesdepends largely on your environment’s EMI level, network speed and budget. Shielded cables excel in noisy, high-speed, or outdoor settings, while unshielded cables are cost-effective and easier to install in low-noise environments.
Explore industrial Ethernet cables to find both shielded and unshielded options built for demanding industrial applications.
