Signalledning

Signalledning, or signal cabling, refers to the physical medium used to carry electrical or optical signals between devices and systems. In Swedish technical literature the term denotes cables and conductors designed to transmit control, measurement, data, or communication signals, and it encompasses copper-based cables as well as fiber-optic links.

Common media include twisted-pair copper cables, coaxial cables, shielded and unshielded varieties, and fiber-optic cables. Copper cables support a broad range of applications from low-frequency control signals to higher-bandwidth data links, while fiber offers high bandwidth and immunity to electromagnetic interference and longer transmission distances.

Key characteristics include impedance, attenuation, capacitance, crosstalk, and shielding. Proper signalledning design emphasizes impedance matching, signal integrity, and minimal reflections, as well as routing practices that minimize electromagnetic interference. Specifications often govern connector types, terminations, and protective measures such as shielding, grounding, and fire resistance.

Typical applications span industrial automation (fieldbuses, sensors, actuators), telecommunications, computer networks, audio/video installations, and equipment interconnects inside devices and data centers.

Installation considerations include safe voltage ratings, insulation, strain relief, connector quality, and labeling. In testing and maintenance, engineers measure continuity, insulation resistance, attenuation, and crosstalk to verify performance against standards. Standards bodies such as IEC, IEEE, and CENELEC provide guidelines for cables, connectors, and installation practices.