What is the main difference between screened cabling and fully shielded cabling?

Screened cabling is characterized by having a thin outer foil shield that uniquely covers all twisted pairs of wires within the cable. This shielding is designed to reduce electromagnetic interference (EMI) and crosstalk between the pairs, thereby enhancing the overall performance of the cable in environments with potential electrical noise. The foil shield provides a moderate level of protection while still allowing for flexibility and ease of handling.

In contrast, fully shielded cabling typically includes additional protection, often involving multiple layers of shielding, which may be more substantial and comprehensive than the singular foil shield of screened cabling. This makes it suitable for environments with much higher levels of interference. The level of shielding in fully shielded cabling is often more robust than that of screened cabling, which is essential for applications that require maximum protection.

Therefore, the distinction lies in the type and extent of shielding each cabling method provides, with screened cabling specifically designed to include that thin outer foil layer, making it the correct answer.