I thought it was time to buy some tools so I could properly crimp coaxial cable connectors. Here’s what I found.
During spring cleanup around the shack, I discovered that many of my coaxial cables has become poor performers. Mainly intermittent, wonky when wobbled. So, I decided to search for some tools to crimp coaxial cable connectors.
Mainly, I want to use 50 ohm RG-58 cable which is small diameter and flexible. Mainly, I want to continue using BNC connectors, which easily connect between modules like switches, filters, patch bays, test equipment and SDR radios. So, I went searching on line for information.
I found that crimping works as well as soldering and is a lot easier to accomplish with the right tools. That’s the key. First, you need a crimper with the right die for the cable and connector diameters you plan to use. Second, a cable stripping tool helps you remove just the right lengths of rubber shield, braid and dielectric as you assemble the connector.
I found the Glarks Coaxial Cable Tool Set on Amazon for CDN $33, shown above. This kit also included 10 connectors to get you started. You can buy additional BNC crimp connectors for RG-58 online for around $1 each.
Of course, my order arrived in a few days and I set to work making a new 12 foot cable to connect my loop array phaser to the second antenna input on my Flex 6300.
Crimping Coaxial Cable Connectors
My new crimping tool set work fine, especially the crimper. My cable stripper is on the cheaper side and a bit fiddly to adjust, but it works as well. You will find lots of videos online showing you how to crimp coaxial cable connectors.
If you head down this path, here are some tips. First, make sure you get the right tool and connectors for the cable types you plan to use. My new tool set will work with RG-58, RG-59, RG-6 and RG-174 connectors. Check to make sure that the crimp die dimensions are right for what you need. For me, it’s 0.043″ die for the BNC pin and 0.213″ for the ferrule.
Second, when you buy connectors, make sure they fit the cables you plan to use. Properly done, you can get perfect connections.
Thanks for sharing, John! Over the years I’ve had a lot of “fun” crimping. Some worked well, while others, well, just so-so. I found that once I was on a roll, then things went smoothly. At the beginning, there’s always a re-learning curve!