What characteristic is crucial for minimizing signal loss in cables?

Minimizing signal loss in cables is significantly influenced by the proper twisting of pairs. This characteristic is crucial because twisted pairs are designed to reduce electromagnetic interference (EMI) and crosstalk, which are major causes of signal degradation in data transmission. In a twisted pair configuration, the wires are twisted together at a specific rate, ensuring that the electromagnetic fields created by the current in the wires cancel each other out effectively. This arrangement helps maintain signal integrity over longer distances by keeping the wires’ characteristics consistent and reducing the likelihood of external interferences affecting the data signal.

While short cable length may seem advantageous, it is not always a sustainable solution for systems that require longer distances. High voltage usage can lead to other issues, such as increased heat and potential damage to components, which does not necessarily correlate with minimizing signal loss. Additionally, increased resistance would typically exacerbate signal loss rather than alleviate it. Therefore, the proper twisting of pairs is the key characteristic that contributes to effective signal transmission and minimal loss.