How to Install RCA Jack Adapters

RCA jack adapters are used to connect video or audio cables to components with different types of jacks. RCA jacks were introduced by the Radio Corporation of America for use with phonograph record players in the 1940s. These plugs are commonly found on speaker cables and triple cord connectors for a VCR or DVD player. The jacks are still widely used on cables for modern equipment, yet, now other types of connector plugs are found on some audio and video devices. Adapters are available to convert RCA connectors to F-type, 1/4 inch, mini jacks and BNC connectors.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Use an adapter to convert an RCA jack from a male plug to a female receiver. Many cables with RCA jacks have male plugs on both sides. Plug the male end from a cable into an adapter sleeve with female end connectors on both sides. The cable can then receive an RCA male end through the other side of the adapter.

2. Connect an RCA jack to a mini jack, 1/4 inch, F-type or BNC adapter. Plug the RCA jack into its receiver on the adapter. The other end of the adapter forms a plug for the desired type of connection. Adapters are made to connect all combinations of male and female ends between two plug types.

3. Plug two RCA jacks into a single mini jack or 1/4-inch port. Stereo signals for left- and right-channel sound are often carried on two audio cables with RCA jacks. Adapters are made to receive both RCA jacks on one side with a 1/4-inch or mini jack plug on the other.

4. Connect the RCA jacks from a DVD player to a television with an F-type receiving port. Plug the yellow, red and white RCA jacks into the color-coded receiving ports on a signal converter adapter. Connect one end of an F-type plug into the audio/video output on the adapter and the other end into the television.