A Comprehensive Guide to Coaxial Cable Stripping

Stripping coaxial cable is a straightforward task that can be easily mastered with practice. Although specialized tools are available at a low cost, this guide will demonstrate how to strip RG6 coaxial cable, commonly used for cable and satellite TV connections, using a razor knife and cutters to prepare it for a standard 'F' connector.

1. Grip the cable firmly with one hand, ensuring the end to be stripped is facing away from your body.

2. Hold the razor knife in your dominant hand and ensure the blade is extended.

Begin by firmly pressing the blade's edge (not the point) perpendicular to the cable about an inch from the end. This cut aims to penetrate the outer jacket, foil layers, braids, and the white dielectric foam around the center conductor. As the blade reaches halfway, reduce pressure to avoid damaging the center conductor.

Rotate the tool around the cable to run the blade halfway without nicking the center conductor.

Adjust the cable's position as necessary to facilitate the continuous rotation of the blade while maintaining a comfortable grip.

After returning the blade to its storage position, firmly grip the cable between the end and the fresh cut. Twist and pull the end off the cable.

Dispose of the cable end and remove any stray wires from the metallic shield or braid.

Use a knife or wire cutters to trim any braid wires protruding beyond the jacket until they are flush with the jacket.

Thoroughly examine the center conductor for any nicks. If nicked, repeat the previous steps until you can perform them without damaging the center conductor. It may take several attempts to master.

Remove any remaining film or dielectric foam from the center conductor by gently scraping it with your fingernail. Ensure the center conductor is completely clean along its entire length.

Hold the cable as before to prepare for removing the outer jacket. Different types of 'F' connectors may require specific cable dimensions. Use common connectors unless specified otherwise.

Position the razor blade on the jacket approximately 5/16 inch (0.8 cm) back from the previous cut. This cut is intended to penetrate the jacket without disturbing the braid. Press the blade gently into the jacket and run it around the cable circumference. Avoid cutting the braid if possible.

After returning the blade to its storage position, remove the ⁵⁄₁₆ inch (0.8 cm) jacket from the cable, leaving only the braid covering the dielectric.

Fold the braid back over the outer jacket to expose the dielectric surrounding the center conductor. Check the requirements of the 'F' connector for any specifications.

Inspect the cable end carefully to ensure there are no wires, filings, or other conductive debris between the center conductor and the braid. Remove any debris found.

Attach the 'F' connector to the cable end. Perform a final inspection by examining the connector to ensure no conductive debris is present between the center conductor and the connector before securing it to the cable.

The 'F' connector is properly seated on the cable if the dielectric is flush with the bottom of the connector when viewed from the end. It should not extend beyond or be recessed more than ¹⁄₁₆ inch (0.2 cm) from the bottom of the connector. Ensure the center conductor does not come into contact with the 'F' connector.

Use the appropriate tool designed for the 'F' connector to secure it to the cable. Options include a coax compression connector tool or a coax connector crimping tool.

Utilize an affordable crimping tool.

Trim the center conductor so that it extends beyond the 'F' connector approximately ³⁄₁₆ to ¹⁄₄ inch (0.5 to 0.6 cm).

- Leave as much braid intact as possible to provide a grounding path in case of electrical failure. - Ensure the cable end is free of kinks, bends, or corrosion. - Familiarize yourself with the components of the cable, from the outer jacket to the center conductor and any additional features like a messenger wire for support.

- Avoid holding the cable with mechanical devices like vises as it may cause damage. Remember, coax can fail if crushed or bent sharply. - Exercise extreme caution when using the razor knife due to the small scale of the work and potential discomfort in handling all the parts.

- Razor knife (or similar tool) - Wire cutters