What happens if the shielding layer of the network cable is not grounded?

　　The ungrounded shielding layer of the network cable will have a series of adverse effects, mainly reflected in the following aspects:

　　First, the quality of signal tranSMission decreases

　　One of the main functions of the shielding layer is to prevent external electromagnetic interference (EMI) from affecting the signal transmission within the cable. When the shielding layer is not grounded, it cannot effectively form a complete electromagnetic shielding structure. External electromagnetic interference easily penetrates the shielding layer into the interior of the cable and interferes with the normal transmission of signals. This will lead to a decline in signal quality, and problems such as data errors and signal distortion may occur. In network communication, it may lead to data packet loss, network delay increase, etc., affecting the normal operation of the network.

　　Second, the risk of information leakage increases

　　The shielding layer also prevents the signal inside the cable from leaking to the outside. When the shielding layer is not grounded, it cannot well prevent the radiation of internal signals. In some situations involving the transmission of sensitive information, such as the transmission of financial data in enterprises or the communication of experimental data in scientific research institutions, if the shielding layer is not grounded, the signal inside the cable may radiate to the surrounding space, increasing the risk of information theft.

　　III. Electrostatic accumulation and discharge hazards

　　During the use of the network cable, static electricity will be generated due to friction with surrounding objects and other reasons. When the shielding layer is not grounded, these static electricity cannot be released in time. After the static electricity accumulates to a certain extent, the phenomenon of electrostatic discharge may occur, generating instantaneous high current and high voltage pulses. This sudden discharge may cause damage to the electronic equipment connected to it, such as breaking down some electronic components inside the cable, resulting in equipment failure or damage. At the same time, electrostatic discharge may also generate electromagnetic radiation, further interfering with surrounding electronic equipment and signal transmission.

　　Fourth, accelerated aging of insulating materials

　　The accumulation of static electricity and electromagnetic interference on the ungrounded shielding layer may have adverse effects on the insulating material of the cable. Long-term exposure to these factors, the insulating material may gradually age and deteriorate. Static electricity may cause changes in the molecular structure inside the insulating material, reducing its insulating properties. Heat generated by electromagnetic interference may also accelerate the aging process of the insulating material.

　　Fifth, the cable mechanical stress increases

　　When the shielding layer is not grounded, the cable may be subject to greater mechanical stress due to the inability to effectively discharge static electricity and resist electromagnetic interference. Static electricity attracts surrounding dust and impurities, increasing the weight of the cable, and may cause the cable to be subjected to uneven pulling force during installation and use. The electromagnetic field force generated by electromagnetic interference may also subject the conductors and insulating layers inside the cable to additional stress. These increases in mechanical stress will make the cable more susceptible to mechanical damage such as wear and tear, further shortening the service life of the cable.

　　In summary, the ungrounded shielding layer of the network cable will have many adverse effects on the signal transmission quality, equipment safety and the service life of the cable itself. Therefore, in practical applications, it is necessary to ensure that the shielding layer of the network cable is properly grounded to give full play to its shielding effect and ensure the stability and security of network communication.