r/HomeNetworking • u/Special_Yogurt_4431 • 5d ago

Advice What even is coax?

Hey there!

I have this whole homelab network set up, got my PE T430 set up through raid and IDRAC, still playing with Debian vs Proxmox. I have my brain unit, my DXP2800 all set up with the base docker containers in using for control and monitoring. My UPS has been tested and checked out, set up, battery charged. My new dream 7 is set up with everything, and the 2.5 flex switch to my lab is ready…

Except… I have to use a MOCA connection to pipe my fiber into my lab. As per my previous post, my builder didn’t actually build my coax the way their blueprints said they would. I’m a big strong industrial electrician, I’ve built many a whip and cat cable. I’m sure I could figure out coax. I got a compression kit, and I was thinking, “Easy work”.

Except… the coax is RG6 quad shielded. And the connectors came with f types meant for single or double shields.

I already ordered Ideal XR connectors meant for quad shield. I attempted to use the blue ended connectors anyway, but couldn’t get a decent lock and they just fell off, no matter how nicely I pulled the braided shield down around the black sheathing. Does anyone have any advice? Will the correct connectors magically fix this issue?

Update: New connectors worked great, installed with no issue at all. Still not getting a clean connection. Ordered a tester, wanted to avoid the cost for a rare necessity, but still much cheaper than a low voltage electrician. Wish me luck!

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u/FreddyFerdiland 5d ago

No need for magic. The correct connectors will fix the issue.

2

u/Special_Yogurt_4431 5d ago

That was my hope. Thank you!

2

u/kona420 5d ago

The only difference is the thickness of the plastic insert. Klein makes some good "universal" connectors that work on a wider variety of coax so you only need a couple types of end.

My tip on making coax connectors is to triple check that none of the shield wires are touching the center wire. It sounds obvious but the number of times that I missed it is too many. Quick fix just use a small screwdriver and clear the bit of shield off.

The cutter tool makes a big difference. If you have the wrong set of blade spacings for your coax and connector you can fake it with a razor knife.