Cable harness manufacturers play a vital role in ensuring that cables and wires are properly constructed and fit for purpose in a wide range of applications, including industrial, marine navigation, oceanography, medical, and life sciences equipment. One important aspect of cable and wire construction is providing electromagnetic interference (EMI) protection during operation, which can be achieved through the use of shielded or unshielded components. In this blog post, we will explore the reasons for using both types of components, as well as their advantages, and their effectiveness in providing EMI protection against various sources.
The Differences Between Unshielded and Shielded Cables
Unshielded and shielded cables are two types of cables used in various applications, including industrial, marine, medical, and life sciences equipment. The differences between the two types of cables can make a significant difference in the performance of your network infrastructure.
Here are the differences between unshielded and shielded cables:
Unshielded Cables:
- Are lighter and more cost-effective than shielded cables.
- Are initially attractive for budget-conscious businesses.
- May not always provide optimal performance in environments prone to electromagnetic interference (EMI).
- Tend to have more crosstalk, which can affect the quality of the signal transmitted.
Shielded Cables:
- Have an extra layer of protection, providing improved noise immunity and higher resistance against EMI.
- Are more suitable for high-noise environments or situations where electrical devices could disrupt data transmission.
- Tend to be heavier and more expensive than unshielded cables.
- Provide better overall performance for data transmission in environments prone to EMI.
Wire harness manufacturers in the USA can help businesses choose the right type of cables for their specific needs and ensure proper construction and assembly.
When to use Unshielded vs Shielded Cables for EMI Protection
Electromagnetic interference (EMI) protection is a critical consideration in numerous industries, as it can greatly affect the performance and reliability of electronic systems. Understanding when to use unshielded and shielded cables for EMI protection can help businesses make informed decisions that ultimately optimize their operations. Here are some points to consider:
Unshielded Cables:
- Are more cost-effective and lighter, making them an initial attractive option for budget-conscious businesses
- Are suitable for low-noise environments where there is minimal electromagnetic interference
Can be used in applications where signal quality is not a top priority - May not provide adequate EMI protection in high-noise environments, which can lead to degraded signal quality
- Should be considered for short cable runs and low-frequency applications
Shielded Cables:
- Have an extra layer of protection, making them ideal for high-noise environments and applications where EMI protection is critical
- Provide better signal quality and reliability compared to unshielded cables
- Are heavier and more expensive, making them less attractive for budget-conscious businesses
- Should be considered for longer cable runs, high-frequency applications, and environments where EMI protection is crucial
In conclusion, cable harness manufacturers and wire assembly manufacturers should carefully evaluate the specific needs of their applications before deciding on whether to use unshielded or shielded cables for EMI protection. With the latest technology and high-quality materials available today, Star Engineering, Inc. has been providing top-notch EMI protection solutions for many years with proven results. If you’re in need of shielding services for your industrial applications then give us a call – we’ll help you choose what works best for your scenario and take proactive action to ensure maximum protection for your sensitive electronic systems. We look forward to hearing from you!
