Understanding Coax Cables and Their Alignment Tools

Coax aka Coaxial cable is widely known for transmitting radio frequencies from one place to another with a coax connector . This electrical cable has simplified the radio signals transmission by easily connecting satellite antenna facilities. From our TV dish antenna of home to high-speed Wi-Fi connectivity in the business locations, this cable serves various purposes. However, you need to understand which type of coax cable is suitable according to the current requirement. On the basis of their size, we can divide coax cables into seven different categories i.e.

• RG-58

• RG-59

• RG-6

• RG-62

• RG-11

• RG-12

• RG-213

Anatomy of Coax Cables

A typical coax cable is made up of four different layers that decide its inner and outer diameter. When you use a coax cable stripping tool to establish a connection, the following layers will appear from inward to outward:-

1. The copper wire remains in the center of the coax cable that we need to transfer data. Its thickness may vary from cable to cable.

2. The second layer is of dielectric insulated plastic that maintains electric current flow.

3. Its third layer is meant for shielding the copper wire from electromagnetic interference with a braided mesh. This mesh is made with copper or aluminum metal.

4. The outermost layer is a plastic coating meant for safeguarding the inner three layers from all potential damages.

In order to utilize the potential of a coax cable, you need the appropriate connector. In male and female categories, there are seven types of coax cable connectors available in the market for managing input and output. Scroll down to know about them in detail.

Types of coax connectors

• BNC Connector

Bayonet Neil-Concelman coaxial connectors are meant for radio frequency equipment like televisions and radio for quick attachment and detachment.

• TNC Connector

Threaded Neill-Concelman connectors can help in establishing connections between mobile phones and antennas. They are small in size as compared to other models and specifically meant for waterproof gadgets.

• SMB Connector

Subminiature version B connectors are commercial-grade components mostly used in telecommunication equipment. These microwave connectors are designed for a simple snap-on coupling.

• 7/6 DIN Connector

The Deutsches Institut für Normung) connectors are durable and robust components meant for coupling coax cables that require a water-resistant environment. Usually, broadcast communication systems use them for all-weather connectivity.

• QMA Connector

These coax radio frequency connectors are used for providing adequate shielding to the data transfer. Industrial communication setups require this connector for maintaining adequate data security.

• MCX Connector

Micro coaxial connectors are small in size and we need them most in wireless gadgets like GPS, digital cellular applications and various radiofrequency hardware.

• RCA Connector

The radio corporation of America has designed this RCA connector for various audio and video applications. It is also known as a cinch connector.

In order to connect these connectors, you need a coax cable stripping tool. Nowadays, universal cable stripping tools are available in the market for all types of round and flat cables. Select a stripping tool equipped with the feature of stripping blade adjustment to specify the thickness before making a cut.