A coaxial cable carries television and Internet signals in homes and other buildings. These cables need connectors at the end to connect to appliances such as televisions and transmit signals. If you have a coaxial cable without a connector, it is a simple task to install it yourself. Strip the wire and expose its inner conductor. Then, put a connector over it and snap it into place. If you have limited space, you should use a right angle connector to avoid bending the cable too much.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Picking and Stripping the Wires
Step 1. Determine if you have an RG59 or RG6 cable
These are the 2 most common types of coaxial cables, and you most likely have one or the other. The easiest way to find out is to check the rubber jacket on the cable. The type of cable must be printed on its surface.
The main difference between the cables is that the RG6 is thicker and has more padding than the RG59. This detail makes it more durable and a more common option for Internet cabling
Step 2. Get a connector that matches the type of cable you have
The most common coaxial connector is type F. Find a type F connector at a hardware store and match it to the width of the cable. You should get one for each cable that you are going to connect.
- There are also N-type connectors, although their use is much less common in domestic installations.
- Type F connectors still come in a variety of styles, including crimp and threaded. Check with a store clerk if you don't know what is the best option for you.
Step 3. Cut the rubber ½ inch (1 cm) from the end of the wire
You can use a wire stripping tool or a razor. Measure ½ inch (1 cm) from the end of the wire and cut around the outer rubber layer. Then, pull it up to expose the mesh underneath.
- Avoid cutting the cable completely. You just have to cut the outer rubber cover. Cutting too deep could damage the connection.
- If you use a razor to do this, you must be very careful. Do not put your finger in the path of the blade and hold the cable tightly.
Step 4. Strip the wire mesh
This element is the second layer of the cable. You can use your fingers or pliers to remove the mesh. Fold it over the rubber cover below the first cut you made.
You can cut this section and remove it with a wire stripping tool, but be careful. Avoid cutting too deep, as you can damage the conductor in the center of the cable
Step 5. Trim the dielectric plastic ½ cm (¼ inch) from the end of the wire
The last layer of cable insulation is a white plastic sheath around the main conductor. You can use wire strippers or a utility knife to gently cut ½ cm (¼ inch) around the plastic from the top. Next, remove what you've cut to expose the copper conductor underneath.
- The plastic can be covered with aluminum foil.
- You must be especially careful when removing the plastic cover. If you damage the conductor, the signal will be weaker.
Step 6. Remove any pieces of wire mesh that come in contact with the conductor
If any part of the mesh touches the conductor, it will interfere with the signal quality. This is known as a spike. Verify that all of the wire mesh has come off and that no part is touching the conductor.
Method 2 of 3: Install a Crimp Connector
Step 1. Slide the crimp ring over the cable
Leave it below the point where you cut so it doesn't get in the way until you need it. Make sure you slide the ring on first, or you will have to remove the connector later and start over.
Not all connectors have separate snap rings. Some connectors already come with the crimp ring. Check which type you have
Step 2. Push the connector over the wire so that the copper conductor sticks out
Hold the cable with one hand and the connector with the other. Then insert the conductor into the reservoir in the center of the connector. Keep pushing until the conductor sticks out just above the edge of the connector on the other side.
- This procedure requires some pressure, as the connector must fit between the rubber cover and the plastic layer. Try twisting the connector back and forth a bit to fit it onto the cable.
- If you plan to install the cable outdoors, remember to use a waterproof connector that has a rubber cover.
Step 3. Crimp the connector and cable
A crimping tool pushes the ring all the way into the connector to secure the connection. You must choose the correct die or width for the cable you are going to use. Next, insert the wire into the crimping tool. Squeeze the handle until you hear a click, indicating that the crimping process is complete.
Some crimping tools work differently, so you must follow the instructions for the specific tool you are using
Step 4. Trim any wire mesh sticking out from under the connector
These metal pieces could interfere with the signal or wiring. Check around the connector for protruding wires. If you spot any, use a wire cutter to trim them.
Method 3 of 3: Install a Right Angle Connector
Step 1. Place the base of the connector over the cable
Most right angle connectors have a base piece that holds the cover together. Slide this base over the stripped wire so that it stays there after you install the connector.
- Remember to slide in the base first before installing any other connector pieces. If you forget, you will have to remove the connector and restart the process.
- Some right angle connector kits are different. You must follow the procedure on any product you use.
Step 2. Loosen the screw inside the connector
The front of the connector cover has an internal screw that carries the signal. You must turn the screw counterclockwise to loosen it.
Avoid removing the screw completely. Just loosen it
Step 3. Touch the conductor with the screw and tighten it
Insert the wire into the cover so that the conductor touches the screw. Hold it in place and turn the screw clockwise to tighten it. You need to form a tight connection for the wire to stay in place.
You just need to turn until the screw is snug. Avoid overdoing it, as you could damage the copper conductor
Step 4. Install the rear connector cover
Take the back and line it up with the notches on the front. Then, press the 2 pieces together with the wire between them.
Some connectors may come together at this point. Continue joining the pieces in case they don't stick automatically
Step 5. Twist the base of the connector around it
The base locks the 2 sections together. Push it up until it reaches the connector. Then, flip it over both pieces. Make sure the connection is correct and then your work is done.
Step 6. Look at your work
Advice
- If you have high speed internet and more than 2 televisions, make sure to use a high quality RG 6 type connector.
- Screw-in F-style connectors generally provide a weaker connection and the signal may leak out of the cable. Crimp connectors are better for a strong signal.