UTP - FTP
In professional audiovisual setups, choosing the right copper cable is essential for reliable signal transmission. Proper shielding ensures minimal EMI/RFI interference and crosstalk, preserving the integrity of audio, lighting, and data networks. Selecting the correct cable type can make the difference between a clean, interference-free show and signal disruptions, especially in complex AV environments with long runs or high-density equipment.
AV Cable Shielding Guide
In professional audiovisual setups, choosing the right copper cable is essential for reliable signal transmission. Proper shielding ensures minimal EMI/RFI interference and crosstalk, preserving the integrity of audio, lighting, and data networks. Selecting the correct cable type can make the difference between a clean, interference-free show and signal disruptions, especially in complex AV environments with long runs or high-density equipment.
Cable Types Overview
| Cable Type | Overall Shield | Individual Pair Shield | EMI/RFI Protection | Crosstalk Protection | Mechanical Strength | AV Application |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| U/UTP | - | - | Basic | Basic | Basic | Short runs, light audio/DMX |
| F/UTP | Foil | - | Good | Basic | Basic | Standard AV, moderate interference |
| S/UTP | Braid | - | Very Good | Moderate | Strong | Long runs, higher-speed data, DMX lighting |
| SF/UTP | Braid + Foil | - | Very Good | Moderate | Very Strong | Professional AV, long runs, high interference |
| U/FTP | - | Foil per pair | Moderate | Good | Basic | Audio Dante networks, short data runs |
| F/FTP | Foil | Foil per pair | Very Good | Good | Medium | AV & network data, moderate EMI |
| S/FTP | Braid | Foil per pair | Very Good | Very Good | Strong | High-performance AV, DMX & Dante, long runs |
| SF/FTP | Braid + Foil | Foil per pair | Maximum | Maximum | Very Strong | Critical AV, professional audio networks, high EMI |
Visual Cable Selection Matrix
Legend: ● Suitable, ⚠️ Use with caution, - Not recommended
| Cable Type | Lighting DMX | Audio Dante | Data Networks |
|---|---|---|---|
| U/UTP | ● Short runs | ⚠️ Short runs | - |
| F/UTP | ● Medium runs | ⚠️ Medium | ⚠️ Limited |
| S/UTP | ● Long runs | ● Medium runs | ● Medium |
| SF/UTP | ● Long runs | ● Medium | ● Medium |
| U/FTP | ⚠️ Short runs | ● Short runs | ● Short data |
| F/FTP | ● Medium | ● Medium | ● Medium |
| S/FTP | ● Long runs | ● Long runs | ● Long data |
| SF/FTP | ● Critical | ● Critical | ● Critical |
Cable Run Length Reference
Typical distances for audiovisual setups; helps select the right cable type for reliable signal transmission.
| Run Type | Approx. Distance | AV Application Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Short Run | 0 – 20 meters | Short patch cables or rack connections; minimal EMI. Suitable for DMX or Dante with U/UTP or U/FTP. |
| Medium Run | 20 – 50 meters | Typical stage or venue distances; interference may appear. Use F/UTP, F/FTP, or S/UTP. |
| Long Run | 50 – 100+ meters | Long hall/outdoor runs; high EMI/RFI risk. S/FTP or SF/FTP recommended for Dante, DMX, and critical data lines. |
Visual Icon Cable Guide
⚡ = EMI/RFI protection, 🔊 = Crosstalk, 🎛️ = AV suitability
| Cable | ⚡ EMI/RFI | 🔊 Crosstalk | 🎛️ AV Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| U/UTP | - | - | ● Short DMX/audio |
| F/UTP | ● | - | ● Medium DMX/audio |
| S/UTP | ● | ⚠️ | ● Long DMX/audio |
| SF/UTP | ● | ⚠️ | ● Long runs |
| U/FTP | ⚠️ | ● | ● Short Dante/data |
| F/FTP | ● | ● | ● Medium runs |
| S/FTP | ● | ● | ● Long Dante/DMX |
| SF/FTP | ● | ● | ● Critical AV |
Tip: For Dante audio networks or long DMX lighting runs, choose at least F/FTP or higher for reliable, interference-free performance.
Pro tip
For modern AV setups with Dante audio networks, always use at least F/FTP or higher for runs over 20–30 meters, especially near lighting rigs or power lines.