Broadband Applications & Construction Manual - Public - CommScope

9.9 Residential Interior Cabling
Coax Connectorization
Connectorizing Braid-Shielded Coax Cable
These instructions refer to general practices. Exact instructions may vary with
the maker of the tools and connectors you are using. Always refer to the
manufacturer’s specifications.
If you are going to use a boot to protect the connection at the
tap, or if you are using a compression fitting with an independent
sleeve, slide it over the cable end first. Strip the end of the coax cable by clamping your cable
prep tool around the cable, making sure that the end of the cable is flush against the stop. Rotate the tool 3x
clockwise, then 2x counterclockwise until you’ve achieved a clean cut.
A clean cut will have a square
end and the cable will have
a round cross-section. The
dimensions in the drawing are
approximate; always check
with your connector manufacturer
for exact dimensions.
If you are using a crimp-style or one piece compression
connector, slide it over the cable end and use the crimping
tool to firmly attach the connector. A good connection will have
solid contact between the neck of the connector and the braid
under it. The conductor should
extend no more than 1/8 in (3
mm) beyond the front edge of the
connector.
If you are using a two-piece compression connector,
slide the main boot over the cable. Then slide the compression
sleeve up to the back of the connector. Use the proper compression
tool to compress the connector to the manufacturer’s specifications.
Carefully bend
the braid back
over the jacket.
On tri- and
super-shield cables, there is an outer
layer of tape; carefully trim that away.
tech tip:
use a braid brush to
brush back the braid.
It makes connector
insertion easier