Originating from the USA, the F plug has now become the plug of choice for the majority of aerial and satellite connections. This is because it is relatively easy to install, easy to connect and disconnect and provides a reliable screened connection.This video shows you how to fit an F plug onto a coaxial cable. This is typically used for satellite TV and communication connections for connections to satellite dishes and satellite set top boxes and TV's, but is also now the most common connection in TV systems, excluding the wall-plate and TV itself. The F connection is also the connector of choice for DAB radios as well so you're likely to come across it there.
This is actually a relatively simple task with some basic DIY skills and will hopefully save you some money by not having to call an engineer out. Installation of a F plug and F connector can be completed with many hand tools available around the home.
To make a fly-lead which can connect your equipment to an aerial socket or a TV aerial wall-plate, simply repeat this process for both side of your cable. This video and step by step guide shows you how to install a twist on F plug.
Tools You Will Need To Fit A F Plug
1 x Coaxial cable stripping tool - Stanley blade or utility knife are fine.
1x Coaxial cable cutting tool - side cutters (even scissors will suffice)
Coaxial Cable
Step By Step Guide For Installing An F Plug
- With the coaxial stripping tool or utility knife. Around 12mm or half an inch away from the cable end make a small round incision outermost layer (cable sheath) of the cable. Be careful not to cut out all the way though as you do not want to cut into the coaxial braid itself. Remove the cut cable sheath revealing the cable braid and screen.
- Fold the cable braid back over the cable sheath.
- If using a double screened cable, with the coaxial stripping tool cut away the cable screen and remove revealing the internal dielectric material.
- With the utility knife, cut the dielectric material leaving around 3mm of insulation in place.
- Screw the F plug into position over the top of the folded back cable braid. Keep twisting the until the dielectric is flush with the inside beginning of the threaded part of the plug. You should be left with 2mm of the centre conductor protruding the end of the plug. This is also known as "the stinger".
- If you have any more than 2mm of the centre conductor protruding the end of the plug, trim back to 2mm using the cable cutting tool.
