In electronics, crosstalk is a phenomenon by which a signal transmitted on one circuit or channel of a transmission system creates an undesired effect in another circuit or channel. Crosstalk is usually caused by undesired capacitive, inductive, or conductive coupling from one circuit or channel to another.
Where the electric, magnetic, or traveling fields of two electric signals overlap, the electromagnetic interference created causes crosstalk. For example, crosstalk can comprise magnetic fields that induce a smaller signal in neighboring wires.
In electrical circuits sharing a common signal return path, electrical impedance in the return path creates common impedance coupling between the signals, resulting in crosstalk.[1][2]
Crosstalk is a significant issue in structured cabling, audio electronics, integrated circuit design, wireless communication and other communications systems.