The short answer?  

You test shielded and unshielded cables similarly with a Fluke DSX-5000 or DSX-8000 certifier.  

These advanced testers perform a full suite of certification tests, including continuity, NEXT (Near-End Crosstalk), and shield integrity for shielded cables.  

The key difference? The DSX series also checks for grounding and shielding effectiveness when testing shielded cabling to ensure proper performance and interference protection. 

 

Why Does Shielding Matter? 

Shielded (STP) and unshielded (UTP) cables serve different purposes: 

Shielded cabling helps protect against electromagnetic interference (EMI), making it ideal for environments with high electrical noise, such as industrial settings or data centres. 

Unshielded cabling is more cost-effective and commonly used in standard office networks where EMI isn't a significant issue. 

Testing Shielded vs. Unshielded Cabling 

Set Up the DSX-5000 or DSX-8000 

In the test settings, select the appropriate cable type and standard (e.g., Cat 6A STP vs. Cat 6A UTP). 

Ensure the adapters match the cable type you're testing. 

Perform a Full Certification Test 

Run an Auto Test to check parameters like wire map, length, NEXT, and return loss. 

For shielded cables, the tester will also check shield continuity; if the shielding isn't adequately terminated, you'll see a failure. 

Check for Shield Integrity (STP Only) 

The DSX series ensures that the shield is connected correctly at both ends. 

A shield failure might indicate improper grounding, leading to interference issues. 
 

Analyse the Results 

A green "Pass" means the cable meets certification standards. 

A red "Fail" means an issue, often poor shielding or excessive crosstalk. 

If testing shielded cables, make sure the Shield Integrity test passes; otherwise, you might have grounding problems. 

Common Pitfalls to Avoid 

Using unshielded connectors on shielded cables – This defeats the purpose of shielding! 

Improper grounding – Shielded cables need proper grounding at the patch panel or outlet. 

Skipping shield continuity tests – Even if your standard UTP tests pass, an ungrounded shielded cable can still cause performance issues. 

Why Use a DSX-5000 or DSX-8000? 

Fluke's DSX-5000 and DSX-8000 aren't just testers but certification powerhouses. They: 

Provide fast and accurate certification for all cable types 
Offer detailed diagnostics for troubleshooting failed links 
Ensure compliance with TIA and ISO standards 

Because guessing if your cabling is good enough isn't a reliable networking strategy. 
 

 

FAQs 

Can I test both STP and UTP cables using the same DSX tester? 

Yes! The DSX-5000 and DSX-8000 can test both shielded and unshielded cables. Just make sure you select the correct cable type in the settings. 

What happens if a shielded cable fails the continuity test? 

A failed shield continuity test usually means improper grounding or a broken shield connection at one end. Double-check terminations and ensure proper bonding. 

Do I always need to use shielded cables? 

Not necessarily. UTP is usually sufficient if you're in a low-interference environment (like a small office). STP is better for high-EMI areas, like industrial facilities. 

How do I know if my cable is truly Cat 6A or just labelled as such? 

Certification with a DSX tester will confirm if a cable meets Cat 6A performance standards or if it falls short. Marketing labels don't always tell the whole story! 

Is the DSX-8000 worth it over the DSX-5000? 

The DSX-8000 supports higher bandwidth and more advanced testing capabilities, making it ideal for high-speed networks (e.g., 40G/100G). If you're working with standard cabling, the DSX-5000 is still an excellent choice. 

 
 

 

Final Thoughts 

Testing shielded vs. unshielded cabling with the Fluke DSX-5000 or DSX-8000 is straightforward, but knowing what to look for is key.  

Shielded cables need proper grounding, while unshielded ones should pass all performance parameters.  

Whether certifying a large data centre or troubleshooting an installation, these testers give you the confidence that your network infrastructure is rock solid. 

At CMW, we provide hiring options for the DSX-5000 and DSX-8000, so you don't have to buy outright. If you need reliable certification tools for your next project, get in touch.