In this article, we will walk you through the steps of stripping a coaxial cable.
Materials needed:
– Coaxial cable
– Coaxial cable stripper
– Cutting tool (scissors or wire cutters)
– Needle nose pliers (optional)
– Electrician’s tape (optional)
Step 1: Use a coaxial cable stripper
A coaxial cable stripper is a handheld tool that is designed to strip the outer jacket of a coaxial cable. This tool allows you to remove the outer jacket without damaging the inner conductor or the shielding. To use a coaxial cable stripper, follow these steps:
– Adjust the stripper blades: The stripper blade sizes vary depending on the type of cable being used. For instance, if you are working on a RG6 cable, locate the stripper blade that corresponds to the RG6 cable size. Then, adjust the blades accordingly by loosening the screws.
– Insert the coaxial cable: Place the coaxial cable into the stripper, making sure that the cable is seated at the correct depth.
– Squeeze the stripper: Firmly hold the stripper in your hand and squeeze the jaws together until the stripper is closed. Then rotate the stripper around the cable, maintaining a firm grip on both the stripper and the coaxial cable.
– Remove the outer jacket: After rotating the stripper around the cable, the outer jacket of the coaxial cable should come off. If the outer jacket is still attached, adjust the stripper depth and repeat the process.
Step 2: Remove the shielding
After removing the outer jacket, the next step is to remove the shielding of the coaxial cable. The shielding is a thin layer of metallic material that surrounds the insulator or the dielectric.
To remove the shielding, gently pull it away using needle nose pliers. If the shielding is difficult to separate, use a cutting tool to make a small cut in the shielding and then pull it away with the pliers.
Step 3: Remove the insulator
The last layer to remove is the insulator. The insulator is the plastic layer that separates the center conductor from the shielding. To remove the insulator:
– Hold the coaxial cable tightly and cut the insulator with a cutting tool. Be careful not to nick or cut the center conductor.
– Gently twist the insulator to loosen it from the center conductor.
– Once the insulator is detached, slide it off the cable.
Step 4: Test the cable
After stripping the coaxial cable, use an ohm meter to test the center conductor, shielding, and insulation for continuity. This will ensure that the cable is functioning correctly and the signal will transmit properly.
In conclusion, stripping a coaxial cable involves removing the outer jacket, shielding and insulator. The process requires a coaxial cable stripper, a cutting tool and some needle nose pliers. With a little patience and practice, you can successfully strip a coaxial cable. Always test the cable before using it to ensure it transmits properly.