What phenomenon is improved by twisting the pairs in a cable?

Twisting the pairs in a cable primarily aims to improve the performance related to electromagnetic induction. When conductors carry electrical signals, they can become susceptible to external electromagnetic interference (EMI) from various sources, such as nearby power lines or radio frequency signals.

By twisting the pairs of wires together, the design helps to cancel out the effects of this external interference. Each wire in the twisted pair experiences equal but opposite magnetic fields from external sources as they are positioned closely to each other, which minimizes the net induced interference that could corrupt the signals being transmitted. This is particularly crucial in ensuring signal integrity over longer distances.

This principle forms the basis for the effectiveness of twisted-pair cabling in networking and telecommunications, as it allows for improved performance in environments with high levels of crosstalk and noise from other electronic devices. Thus, the twisting of wire pairs is a fundamental design feature used to enhance electromagnetic compatibility, thereby helping to maintain a clearer and more reliable signal.