Which type of AV cable is usually preferred for environments with significant electromagnetic interference?

In environments with significant electromagnetic interference (EMI), shielded twisted pair (STP) cables are typically preferred due to their construction, which helps protect the signals from external noise and interference. The shielding in STP cables consists of a foil or braided shield that encases the pairs of wires, effectively blocking electromagnetic fields that could disrupt the data transmission. This makes STP cables ideal for use in settings where electronic devices may emit strong electromagnetic fields, ensuring a stable and reliable signal.

While fiber optic cables are also highly effective at resisting interference due to their transmission method (using light instead of electrical signals), the context implies a comparison within conventional wiring, where STP is designed specifically to mitigate EMI effects in copper wiring environments. Thus, in situations where access to fiber optics isn't feasible, STP stands out as a practical choice for maintaining signal integrity against interference.