Abstract: A connecting arrangement in which a connector and a mating element are connectable to a cable which has at least one electrically conducting core. This core is surrounded by a light-transmitting electrical insulating layer. The connector and mating element each have at least one electrical contact and one optical contact, through which the connector and the mating element are optically coupled for light transmission at a location where the insulating layer lies against the cable. The connector and mating element conduct both electrical and optical signals.

Abstract: A cable (K) comprises at least one lead (A) and at least one insulating layer (I). In communication technology, communications are transmitted between two apparatuses by cables of various types. In order to reduce to a minimum the number of cables and cable connections necessary, cables with a high transmission capacity are preferred. In order to substantially increase the transmission capacity of a cable (K) with at least one lead (A) and at least one insulating layer (I), the insulating layer (I) is made for optical transmission purposes of an optically conductive material. Optical transmission channels can be obtained using optically conductive materials for the insulating layers of all cables with one or more insulating layers, for example flat cables, coaxial cables, mains cables, etc., without having to increase the cross-section of the cable or to provide separate connections for additional cables in the appliances to be connected.