Twisted pair is a type of cable used in telecommunications that consists of pairs of wires twisted together. The spelling of "twisted pair" can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). "Twisted" is pronounced "twɪstɪd," with the "w" sound at the beginning followed by a short "i" vowel sound, then a "s" sound, and ending with a "t" and "d" consonant sound. "Pair" is pronounced "pɛər," with a long "e" sound as in "hair," followed by an "r" sound. Together, the word is pronounced "twɪstɪd pɛər."
Twisted pair is a type of wiring commonly used in telecommunications and computer networks. It consists of two insulated copper wires that are twisted together in a helical form. The twisted configuration helps to minimize electromagnetic interference and crosstalk, making it ideal for transmitting data over relatively short distances.
The twisting of the wires is crucial in mitigating interference. By twisting them together, any electromagnetic signals are cancelled out since they induce opposing currents in each wire. This cancellation reduces external noise and cross talk, improving the quality and reliability of the transmitted signals.
Twisted pairs are categorized into two main types: unshielded twisted pair (UTP) and shielded twisted pair (STP). UTP is the most commonly used type, where the twisted wires are not enclosed within any additional shielding. In contrast, STP includes a metallic foil or braid around the wires to further protect against interference.
The performance of twisted pair cables is evaluated based on various parameters, including the number of twists per meter, wire thickness, and bandwidth. These cables are commonly used for networking applications, such as Ethernet and telephone systems, as well as for audio and video transmission.
Overall, twisted pair is a wiring technology that utilizes twisted pairs of copper wires to transmit data and signals efficiently while minimizing interference and crosstalk, making it a widely adopted solution in communication systems.
The word "twisted pair" has a compound etymology, derived from two components:
1. "Twisted": The term "twisted" comes from the Old English word "twist", which means a thread or cord made by twisting fibers together. It evolved from the Proto-Germanic word "twis-, twisk-" which had a similar meaning. The concept of twisting or interlacing threads was commonly associated with creating stronger or more robust cords, ropes, or fabrics.
2. "Pair": The word "pair" originates from the Old French word "paire", which means "a pair, couple, or set of two". This term, in turn, developed from the Latin word "paria", meaning "equals" or "matched things". It suggests a grouping or combination of two similar elements.