Coaxial cable is a cable that has a copper core conductor protected by an insulator, and a second conductor in the form of a conductive sheet wrapped in a dielectric (non-conductive) material. Here's how to connect your connector on a television coaxial cable.
Step
Method 1 of 3: Getting Started
Step 1. Determine the cable size
Cable terminology can be confusing. Look on the side of the coaxial cable to find its size. In most homes, the two most common cable sizes are RG-6 and RG-59.
- RG stands for "Radio Guide". Numbers on various cable versions refer to the diameter (59 means 0.059, and 6 means 0.06, etc.) and internal characteristics of the cable, including the number of shields and cable attenuation, which refers to how much signal is lost per cable length.
- You can also see the letters RF stamped on this cable, which stands for "Radio Frequency".
- Most nonindustrial coaxial cable is now known as RG-6, although the thinner, lower quality standard RG-59 cable is still used in some devices and older homes. Commercial technicians use thicker RG cables, such as RG-11 (which is only used if the distance from the source to the termination point is more than 60 meters)
- RG cables used in homes for everyday use have a size of 75 ohms (RG-6 or RG-59).
- Note that all cables (and connectors) are available in various qualities. Choose the best quality available.
Step 2. Choose the right connector
Most connectors for home video installations are made with an F-type connector. However, it's possible that your device will still use an N-type connector.
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Be aware that there are several type F cables available, most commonly screw and crimp type connectors.
- Screw connectors are easy to use, but they are less secure and leave small airbags, which can affect signal quality.
- The crimp type connector has two parts: a ring (or crimp) and a terminator. These connectors are usually difficult to install, but provide the best length and quality when used properly.
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Note that you will need the same type of male and female connectors to make the connection.
The male connector has a wire sticking out in the middle, while the female connector has a hole for the center wire to go through. Make sure you use connectors of the opposite genre. Most cables have a male end connector
- Use SMA (sub-miniature Version A) connectors for very small coaxial cables.
Method 2 of 3: Unplugging
The first step in installing the connector is to prepare the ends of the coaxial cable.
Step 1. Cut the end of the cable
Step 2. Remove the outer layer (usually black rubber) by 1.5 cm
Be careful not to cut the metal layer that is directly behind the outermost insulating shell. This layer can be a "loose" wire and sheet metal that is behind the cable shield
Step 3. Carefully peel the inner sheet metal (second channel) and peel off the outer insulation layer
Make sure the metal is not wrapped around or touching the copper core conductor.
Step 4. Cut the dielectric plastic (usually white or clear) from the inner core cable
You must make sure not to scratch or pry the center conductor. Any damage to these conductors will deteriorate the signal quite badly
Step 5. Push the connector down through the end of the cable to stick out the copper core of the coaxial cable
Make sure the dielectric (aluminum paper) is cut so that it does not enter the terminator on the conductor
Step 6. Attach the connector to the end of the cable
The connector groove will cut into the outer casing and wrap around the protective weave so that it fits securely.
Method 3 of 3: Using a Crimp-Type Connector
Here's another method for connecting coaxial cable connectors.
Step 1. Attach the crimp ring to the end of the cable
Step 2. Open the outermost layer of the cable end to about 1 cm
Step 3. Cut the protective layer, metallic layer, and dielectric so that the core wire remains
Step 4. Leave a 0.5 cm long dielectric
Step 5. Install a terminator at the end of the cable so that the copper core is sticking out of the hole
Step 6. Push the crimp connector down onto the end of the cable so that the connector tube is between the aluminum layer and the outer casing
This step is quite difficult to do. Try to hold the end of the cable with a tan, and not twist the connector when pushing it
Step 7. Use a crimper on the ring around the outside of the cable
Step 8. Cut the remaining dangling wire
Step 9. Cut the end of the inner core wire so that it is flush with the end of the connector
Step 10. Tighten the connector to make sure it fits properly
Tips
- If you have high-speed internet and more than one television, make sure you use the RG 6 type connector. Careful preparation is required before connecting the connector with cable wire to get a clear picture and a solid connection for modern cables. Use compression-type connectors commonly sold at home supply stores. Also, make sure not to "scratch" or pry the copper core of the conductors as this will cause internet problems, such as intermittent connectivity and packet loss.
- You can buy crimpers, cutters and strippers specifically designed for coaxial cable in certain diameters. You'll need practice to use this tool, and it's not really necessary to make the connection. A stripper tool will suffice as long as you are careful.
- Do not use type F screw connectors. The cable signal will “leak” in this kind of cheap and low quality connector. These connectors can cause unwanted signals to "go" into the cable and cause strange distortions in the form of vertical lines, dashes moving horizontally across the screen and random "beats" or small white dots all over the screen.
Warning
- Professionals use compression fittings on coaxial with a compression tool no more expensive than a crimper. This tool is used more often now because it provides a seal that is more watertight and has minimal impact on the signal at the joint point.
- Make sure you use a good connector. Don't work half-assed. Cable TV signals can leak bad connectors and interfere with many devices that use RF technology (including airplanes). What's more, if too many signals leak, you could be penalized.
- If you're not sure, leave it to your cable provider's professional. Usually the rates charged are quite cheap, especially when compared to electrical contractors.
