How to Connect RG6 Cable

Often called "co-ax" or just TV cable, RG6-type cable is the most common audio/video cable. This coaxial cable can be cut, stripped and re-connected quickly with the right tools. The cables typically come with cable TV setups.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Spool or specific length of RG6-type cable
• Wire cutters (suitable for at least 3/8 inch thickness)
• RG6 cable stripper, clamp-type or pliers-type
• F-Type connector tips, also called "F-connectors"
• Crimp tool or compression tool (matching the F-connector tips)

Easy as Cut, Strip and Attach

1. 
    
   From left: clamp-style stripper, compression tool and generic wire cutter/stripper.

   Cut the end of the cable so that the end is flat and clean-cut. If you also have an all-weather/tension boot, slide that on before stripping the cable. (Skip this step if you have a self-cutting RG6 stripping tool.)

2. 
    
   Stripper tools may come with a diagram (indicated with red arrow) that shows you how to use it.

   Apply the RG6 stripping tool to prepare the cable-end for the F-connector. Alternatively, use a clamp-style or "clothes pin" stripper, spinning it around the cable five to seven turns. Pliers-type strippers should be turned slightly while applying pressure to ensure a thorough cut. Open or un-clamp the strippers before removing the stripped material. Remove the stripped pieces by hand rather than pulling with the stripping tool.

3. 
    
   It is normal to have a few errant strands after the end is stripped.

   Remove the stripped material and inspect the result. RG6 stripping tools are pre-measured, so the result should look very much like the picture shown here. If the copper core is slightly longer, you can fix it in the final step.

4. 
    
   Now the stripped end is ready for the F-connector.

   Trim any small strands from the stripped end with wire-cutters or scissors. With your fingers, gently pull the braid away from the core insulation and spread it down the cable. When you're done, it should look like the picture shown here.

5. 
    
   An "F-COMP" connector seated on the stripped end.

   Slide on the F-connector, carefully aligning the smaller center hole with the core insulation. Some physical force may be needed to fully "seat" the F-connector. When seated properly, the white insulation should meet-up with the "shelf" inside the threaded ring.

6. 
    
   A compression-type tool.

   Secure the F-connector using the crimp tool or compression tool. While using the tool, be sure to apply firm pressure along the cable so the F-connector doesn't slide out of place.

7. 
    
   A finished "F-Comp" connector; notice how the copper core is just visible over the edge

   Inspect your work. The copper core should be at the center of the F-connector and should barely protrude from the edge of the threaded ring. If the copper core protrudes more than 1/8 inch, trim it with wire cutters.
   There should be no visible strands from the inner braid. For a crimp-style F-connector, the compressed metal "skirt" should have a symmetrical shape around the cable. For compression-style F-connectors, the compression die should be fully within the connector with no visible gaps.

Tips & Warnings

• Compression-type F-connectors, also known as "F-Comp," consist of two parts: the metal connector outside and an inner sleeve known as a "compression die." At first, the two parts are lightly held together, making it convenient to slide them onto the stripped cable. When compressed together, the die is pushed against the cable to form a tight seal. The F-Comp tends to be more expensive, but it is also more durable. Crimping F-connectors have only one part: the metal tip. The "skirt" behind the tip is bent and folded against the outer cable to hold the tip in place. The connectors are generally inexpensive and easy to find, but they could come loose over time. Avoid using "twist on" F-connectors, which can fail under minimal strain.
• Some cable-television service providers prohibit tampering with cable connections and equipment; to find out, consult your cable provider's service agreement or call the customer service line. RG6-type cable is generally made from a solid copper core and small, metal filaments. Once exposed, the copper core can easily puncture or tear your skin. Water will interfere with any electrical connection, including a cable signal. Cable made for outdoor use should include an all-weather "boot" to provide a water-tight seal around the connection. The boot should be added to the cable after cutting and before attaching the F-connector. Certain crimp/compression tools associated with RG6-type cable require a certain amount of physical strength to function properly.

References

• How to Terminate Coaxial Cable at HomeTech Solutions
• Installation Guide for Digicon F-Connectors at Arris (PDF download)
• Forum Posting on Installing F-Connectors at FTA Professionals

Resources

• Information on Cable Types at Blue Jeans Cable