How to Connect a Coax Cable to a Connector

Coaxial (coax) cables are utilized for cable TV and satellite connectivity. Coax cables are very effective for carrying signals that are sensitive to radio frequency fields. With a thick outer sheath on the coax cable, the signal travels down the center conductor and is reasonably unaffected by "noise." Coax cables utilize connectors at the terminal ends of the cables. Coax connectors are screw-type fittings with a center needle designed to make contact with a female connector on a receiver or video device. Connectors are relatively easy to attach to a coax cable.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Length of coaxial cable
• Male coax connector (screw type)
• Cable cutter
• Cable stripping tool

Attaching a Connector to a Coax Cable

1. 
    
   Cut the Cable

   Prepare the coax cable for the connector. Snip the cable flush with a cable clipping tool. Strip the outer sheath (black rubber) off a half inch at the end of the coax cable with care, ensuring not to damage or tear the inner braiding. The braiding may appear as wire mesh, aluminum foil or loose wire.

2. Peel back the inner braiding. Ensure that none of the metal from the braiding is wrapped around or touching the copper center conductor. Be careful not to nick or scratch the center conductor. Damage to this component may severely affect the signal.

3. 
    
   Exposed Conductor

   Strip back three-eighths of an inch of the dielectric plastic coating (white or clear) covering the inner core cable so that only the center conductor is exposed.

4. Using a male connector, insert the exposed end of the coax cable into the connector piece on to the end of the coax cable. (Corresponding female connectors will be on the video device, receiver or wall socket.)

5. Ensure that plastic is not covering the conductor and that the outer sheath is not crossing the screw threads inside the connector or the center conductor. Press the connector down over the end of the cable so that the copper conductor of the coax cable protrudes through the connector.

6. Screw the connector onto the end of the coax cable. The screw thread of the connector will cut into the black rubber housing and wrap the sheathing for a snug fit.

Tips & Warnings

• Use a Sub-Miniature Version A (SMA) connector for small, nonstandard coaxial cable.

References

• SatCure
• TechTarget