Three Main Types of Communication Cables

Communication Cable is a cable that transmits information signals between geographically separated points by currents of various frequencies. Data, voice and images are transmitted through communication cables. The heart of a communication cable is the transmission medium, which may be coaxial conductors, twisted wire pairs, or optical fibers. A mechanical structure protects the heart of the cable against handling forces and the external environment.

The first type of cables used for these functions were coaxial cables. Coaxial cable, or coax cable, has an inner conductor surrounded by foam insulation, symmetrically wrapped by a braided metal shield, then covered by a plastic jacket. 

Modern technology calls for the use of cables with copper conductors organized in twisted pairs with insulation and outer sheath.

Common types are:

•       UTP  (unshielded twisted pairs)

•       STP  (shielded twisted pairs)

•       FTP  (foiled twisted pairs)

This type of communication cables are classified in categories (Cat) according to the performance for crosstalk and "system noise". They are used when the length is shorter than 100m.

When distances are longer than 100m, an optical fiber cable must be used. An optical fiber cable contains one or more optical fiber. The optical fiber elements are typically individually coated with plastic layers and contained in a protective tube suitable for the environment where the cable will be deployed.

 Choosing among coaxial cable, twisted pair cable, and fiber optic cable mainly depends on your needs and network topology. You can balance the cost and the requirements of bandwidth to make a choice. No matter coaxial cable, twisted pair cable, or fiber cable, suiting your network requirements is the best.