How to Extend a Coaxial Cable

Extending a coaxial cable is an easy, effective way to get a too-short cable to the desired length. Read on to learn everything you'll need to know about the cable extension process.

Step 1 - Protect Yourself

Before attempting to extend a coaxial cable, make sure that the cable you're extending has been disconnected from any devices to which it was attached. Extending the cable when it is hooked up presents a number of safety hazards to the components to which they are connected. When working with cables, safety should always be your priority, so take care not to skip this crucial step. After taking the necessary safety precautions, you'll be ready to move on to the next step.

Step 2 - Prep Your Cables

Having disconnected the cable you wish to extend, you are ready to prepare your cable for the extension process. Begin this step by confirming that your coaxial cable's connectors are firmly in place. Do this by gently twisting the connectors with your fingers. If any of your connectors appear to be loose, turn them to the right in order to securely tighten them. You can use pliers if necessary.

Repeat this process with your second cable.

Step 3 - Extend Your Coaxial Cable

Now that you've prepared your cables, you are ready to begin carrying out the extension process. Begin this step by firmly attaching one of your cable connectors to one end of your coaxial cable feed-through extender. Next, pull out your second coaxial cable and attach one of its connectors to the other end of your feed-through connector.

If you wish to further extend your cable's length, you will need to acquire additional cables and connectors. Two cables should generally be enough to suit your purposes, however.

Step 4 - Apply Finishing Touches

Having successfully extended the length of your coaxial cable, you are free to use the newly extended cable as you see fit. First, attach on your new cable's connectors to the device of your choosing. Next, attach the cable's other connector to the source of the cable's signal. If you'd like to err on the safe side, give your connectors one final firmness test before hooking up your cable. If all went according to plan, your new cable should work every bit as well as your previous one.

And there you have it. When extending a coaxial cable, just remember these four easy-to-follow steps and your cable's length will be extended in no time.