What are two characteristics of fiber-optic cable?

Fiber-optic cables are known for their ability to transmit data over long distances with minimal signal loss, making them an ideal choice for high-speed networking environments. The correct choice highlights two key characteristics: fiber-optic cables are indeed more expensive than Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP) cabling due to the complex manufacturing process and the materials used, which include glass or plastic fibers that are capable of sending data as light signals.

Moreover, in terms of shielding, while fiber-optic cables do not use traditional electrical shielding like copper cables, they rely on the physical properties of light traveling through the fibers to avoid interference. This unique way of data transmission makes them immune to electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio-frequency interference (RFI), further enhancing their usage and reliability in environments where these interferences are prevalent.

Understanding these characteristics is crucial when selecting cabling for network infrastructure, particularly in scenarios that demand high bandwidth and reliability.