Is it true or false that using screened or shielded cabling can eliminate the need for metallic conduit in some environments?

Using screened or shielded cabling can indeed eliminate the need for metallic conduit in certain environments, making the statement true. This type of cabling is designed to reduce electromagnetic interference (EMI) and crosstalk, providing better performance in areas where such interference might impact data transmission.

In environments with significant EMI, such as near heavy machinery or radio transmitters, shielded or screened cabling creates a protective barrier that allows the cables to operate effectively without additional metallic conduit. The shielding is typically made of conductive materials that prevent external noise from affecting the signal and also protects the cable's internal signals from radiating out.

However, the effectiveness of this approach may depend upon factors such as the installation environment and local building codes, which might still require protective conduits for certain scenarios. It's essential to evaluate individual cases, but in many situations, the use of this specialized cabling can provide adequate protection without the additional overhead of conduits.