Impedance is measured in Ohms and represents the total resistance that the cable presents to the electrical current passing through it. Impedance is associated with AC circuits.
At low frequencies, the impedance is largely a function of the conductor size (resistance), but at high frequencies, conductor size, insulation material, and insulation thickness all affect the cable’s impedance. Matching impedance is very important, for example, if the system is designed to be 100 Ohms, then the cable should match that impedance, otherwise error-producing reflections are created at the impedance mismatch, seen as lower return loss in bidirectional signal cables.
The symbol for Impedance is Z.
About Signal Cable and Wire
Signal cable and wire are both types of flexible data cable used in data transmission applications that demand superior signal protection. These applications require some of the smallest, most flexible, and highly-screened cables on the market. Signal cables are used in a multitude of industries and can be found in everything from computers and medical equipment to appliances.