How to Install a TV Antenna Cable
Most people will opt to call their cable company or electrician to install a television antenna cable. However, if you are an enterprising individual who enjoys tackling home projects yourself, it is quite possible to do this project on your own with the proper tools and the right instructions.
Televisions are connected to an antenna via a coaxial cable. This cable is responsible for transferring the signal from the antenna to the television, resulting in audio and video. Be sure to choose a good quality coaxial cable that will be sturdy enough in the outdoor elements in order to ensure the optimum television viewing experience.
Items needed:
- Coaxial cable
- Coaxial connectors
- Wire cutters
- Wire stripper
- Crimper tool
- Tape
- Staple gun and staples
Instructions:
- Use your wire cutters to cut off one end of the coaxial cable. You want a nice square blunt end.
- Use the wire stripper to remove the rubber from the last inch on both ends of the cable.
- Take any wire braid that has not been cut and fold it back. You will expose a foil layer that is around the di-electric cable. This cable should be white.
- Take the ring that is on the coaxial connector and untwist it.
- Take the connector and slide it over the end of the coaxial cable that has been cut. Be sure to slide the connector's fat end first. Make sure that the insulator on the cable is flush with the metal flange on the connector.
- Using the crimp tool, crimp the connector into its proper place.
- Install coaxial connectors on the two ends of the cable.
- Take one end of the coaxial cable and connect it to the television antenna. Run the cable to the TV and connect it securely.
- Use tape or staples to secure the cable, ensuring that it does not move from its place. If using staples, be sure not to staple into the cable itself.