How to Use a Coax Compression Tool

A coax compression tool is a tool used for coaxial cable. Coaxial cable is a cable that consists of conducting outer metal. This metal is insulated through a central conducting core. It is a transmission line used for high frequency signals.

Step 1 - Determine the Cable Size

Before you can begin using the compression tool, you first need to determine the size of your coaxial cable. The most common sizes used in homes are RG6 and RG59. To know the size of your cable, look at the side of the cable wire.

Step 2 - Choosing the Connectors

Once you have determined the correct size of your coaxial cable, you now need to determine which connector is suitable for your home. There are generally two types of connectors available, the F-Style and N-type connectors. However, most homes have F-Style connectors.

You need to have both male and female connectors to make a connection. The male connector is the one where the center wire is sticking out while the female connector is the one where a space is available for the wire from the male connector can be inserted.

Step 3 - Preparing the Coxial Cable

Before doing any cutting or probing, it is important that you properly prepare your coaxial cable. Using a coaxial cable stripper, remove the outer layer of the cable until you expose at least ½ inch of the copper. You should also be able to expose ¼ inch of the insulation that protects the copper wire in the cable.

Make sure that the aluminum foil wrapping the cable is trimmed down clearly. This is to avoid the foil from entering the terminator.

Step 4 - Opening the Universal Compression Tool

Once your coaxial cable is ready, you now need to open the compression tool. To open the coax compression tool, unscrew the adapter which is located at the bottom of the compression tool.

You then need to insert the adapter you have unscrewed into the plunger which is located on opening of the compression tool. Once you have inserted the adapter the compression tool will open.

Step 5 - Inserting the Cable

Insert the cable through the compression connector into the plunger. Push the connector onto the coaxial cable until the center of the pin is flushed.

Step 6 - Attaching the Fitting

There are several fittings for a compression tool. The universal one is the RG6 3GHZ so use this instead, unless otherwise indicated in the manufacturer’s manual. This attachment is quite common in shops so you will not have a hard time looking for one.

Step 7 - Placing the Cable in the Compression Tool

After you have attached the right fitting, place the connector and the coaxial cable in the compression tool that is open. You can now compress the connector and cable together.

Step 8 - Using the Compression Tool

Once the coaxial cable and the connector are inside the compression tool, compress these together by closing the lever of the compression tool and sealing it tightly.