I've got some coaxial cable, and I'd like to put F type connectors on the end so I can use the cable to connect my TV to the Cable box. How do I put ends on the cable?
The first step is to cut the cable to length. You can use any tool capable of cutting the cable, personally I reach for my trusty lineman pliers.
Once you cut the cable, it will look something like this
Now that the cable is the proper length, you'll have to strip the insulation off. Again, you can use any tool capable of stripping the insulation without damaging the inner cable. Personally, I use a tool specifically designed for the job.
With this tool, you simply
When you're done, you'll have a perfectly stripped cable.
Next you'll carefully bend the braiding back over the insulation (this step may vary, depending on the connector being used. Consult the documentation with the connector).
In this case, I'll be using a crimp on connector like this (twist on connectors are also available).
Push the stripped cable end up into the connector.
Make sure you push the cable in far enough, so the inner insulation starts to peek through the hole inside the connector.
Finally, using a crimping tool.
Place the cable end into the crimping tool, and squeeze the handle.
Twist-on F type connectors are available, in which case you'll not need the crimping tool. However, I've had poor results with the twist-on variety, and much prefer the crimp connectors.