How to Assemble RCA Connectors
The RCA connector, or plug, is an ubiquitous feature of audio systems. The RCA plug was developed by the RCA company in the 1940s to connect turntables to RCA radio sets and has since become almost the default connector for audio gear. You'll find RCA connectors on cables used for connecting audio gear like CD players to receivers. By knowing how to assemble RCA connectors, you'll be able to make your own RCA cables, useful if you need to build a custom-length cable for your home audio applications.
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Things You'll Need
- 2-conductor cable
- RCA plug
- soldering iron
- rosin-core solder
- wire cutters/strippers
Instructions
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1
Separate the two leads of your wire, and then strip the insulation off of each lead so that you have 3/8 to 1/2 inch of bare wire exposed.
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2
Undo the jacket, or shell, covering from your RCA connector. Slide the jacket over the wire so that it can be fastened onto the plug after you've connected it to the wire.
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3
Hold the bare wire of the positive lead against the center tab of the RCA connector. Place the hot soldering iron against the two until they are hot, then apply solder. When the solder flows into the joint, remove the soldering iron and let the joint cool.
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4
Hold the bare wire of the negative lead of your wire against the outer tab of the RCA plug. Apply the hot soldering iron to the junction of the two, and then apply solder until it flows into the joint. Remove the soldering iron and allow the joint to cool.
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5
Slide the jacket over the joints, and screw it tightly onto the RCA plug. The jacket protects the junctions you've made from being broken in use.
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