What Does Attenuation-to-Crosstalk Ratio Mean?
The attenuation to crosstalk ratio (ACR) is the difference between attenuation and crosstalk at a given frequency along cables. It is measured in decibels and is a calculation used in networking transmissions in order to ensure that signals transmitted across twisted pair cables are stronger at the receiving end than interference signals imposed on the pair by crosstalk from adjacent pairs.
The attenuation-to-crosstalk ratio may also be called head room.
Techopedia Explains Attenuation-to-Crosstalk Ratio
The attenuation-to-crosstalk ratio is calculated to ensure that signal transmissions are stronger at the receiver side than interference caused by crosstalk. Attenuation and crosstalk is minimized for acceptable signal transmissions. Attenuation is based on the type and length of cable being used. Thus, crostalk is minimized by standardizing the cables.
The ACR clearly indicates the strength of an attenuated signal compared to crosstalk at the receiving end of communication circuit. If the ACR value is not large, errors frequently occur. A slight increase in ACR causes a drastic reduction in errors.
