Why should data cables be kept away from electrical cables?

Data cables should be kept away from electrical cables primarily to prevent electromagnetic interference (EMI). Electrical cables carry significant amounts of current, which can produce electromagnetic fields. These fields can induce noise and signal degradation in adjacent data cables, leading to potential data loss and reduced transmission quality.

Keeping data cables separated from electrical cables enhances the integrity and reliability of data transmission. This separation is particularly important in environments where data integrity is crucial, such as in communication centers and data centers. The guidelines provided in industry standards, such as those from BICSI and the National Electrical Code (NEC), emphasize proper cabling practices, including maintaining distance between different types of cables to minimize the risk of interference.

While factors like cost, installation speed, or cable weight may be relevant in a broader context, they do not directly address the critical issue of ensuring clear and reliable data transmission, which is the main concern in this scenario.