Shielded wire describes specialty casings for cables, surrounding the cords and acting as a “shield” or protectant. The wire protects data transferred through the cable from electromagnetic interference (EMI). The shield wraps around a wire, all encased within the cord’s jacket. Different styles of shielded wire casings, including foil and braided casings, are designed for use in different circumstances. Understanding shielded wire and its function will help you choose the best action for your cable needs.
Shielded wire cables offer excellent solutions to protect your cables from EMI disruption. Read below for more information about shielded wire, or contact Quail Electronics, Inc. today with questions and we will happily assist you.
Shielded Wire: The Basics
Shielded wire is used to combat EMI disturbances, which weakens data during transmission and can inhibit electronic device functionality. EMI also creates interference that affects cell phones, radios, and communication devices, diminishing or inhibiting functionality. Shielded wire is used to resist EMI disruptions. Power cords with shielded wire feature a barrier surrounding the cord’s signal-carrying conductors, protecting the signal by conducting noise to the ground and away.
Selecting the correct shield is critical to ensure proper performance. Different casing styles, foil and braided, are designed for different uses and perform in various ways.
Foil Casings
Foil shielded wire is made from a thin, lightweight aluminum casing with a polyester backing. This combination offers durability and strength. While the thin casing is more challenging to maneuver, foil casing is beneficial for shielding applications involving rigidity and low-pressure environments.
Braided Casings
Braided shielded wire is typically made from tightly woven copper but can also come in variations like steel. This casing style is heavier than foil, making it bulkier yet more versatile. The tightness of the braid determines the level of protection afforded to the cable; the tighter the weave, the greater the protection. Braided casings offer higher flexibility and security for long-lasting solutions.
Double Shielding
Foil and braided casing methods are occasionally combined, creating a double shield and maximizing wire protection. Double shielding casings are uncommon but can offer greatly increased strength and exceptional durability.
Using Shielded Wire to Combat Electromagnetic Interference
While shielded wire is an excellent combatant against EMI disruptions, it isn’t necessary for all electronic applications. Not only do some operations not require EMI protection, but if the wrong type of shielded wire is selected or the shield isn’t properly grounded, the shield can instead act as an antenna and transfer unwanted signals or create interference.
Determining your need for shielded wire depends on the amount of EMI encountered in specific applications and industries. For example, processing plants regularly use many electronics, usually resulting in high levels of EMI and making shielded wire essential for wire protection. On the other hand, offices and labs tend to have lower EMI and do not require shielded wire.
Additionally, environmental factors can affect levels of EMI and its influence on electronic devices. Factors to consider include proximity to power lines, motors, generators, and heating inductions. Performing a full assessment of power usage and an application’s setting will help determine the necessity of shielded wire. From there, the casing style can be determined and implemented to help protect wiring from EMI disturbances.
Talk to an Expert at Quail Electronics, Inc.
Questions? No worries! At Quail Electronics, Inc., our team of experts is prepared to assist you with any questions. With over 30 years of industry experience, we are your reliable source of information and high-quality electronic products for use in all industries. We offer competitive pricing, low minimum order requirements, and convenient same-day shipping to supply you with the best solutions for your requirements. From NEMA power cords to international cables, our expansive inventory will provide you with the right tools you need to succeed.
Quail Electronics, Inc. is your knowledgeable provider for all your electronic needs. Contact us today with information or to learn more about shielded wire.