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Networking Fundamentals · Foundational

Crosstalk

Interference in which a signal on one wire pair couples onto an adjacent pair, degrading signal quality.

Definition

Crosstalk increases with higher frequencies and when pairs are untwisted too far at terminations. Measures include NEXT, FEXT and alien crosstalk (between neighboring cables). Proper twist maintenance and quality components reduce it.

Example

Untwisting pairs 3 inches at a jack causes a Cat 6 link to fail certification for NEXT.

Exam tip

Keep untwisting to a minimum at terminations (0.5 inch or less for Cat 5e and up).

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