Types of Connectors

• "F" type connectors carry high frequency television and satellite signals.Ryan McVay/Photodisc/Getty Images
  
  The type of connector depends on the type of coaxial and the application. Home entertainment systems commonly use RCA and F type connectors. Computer systems use BNC. Other connectors for ham radio, industrial and broadcast use include TNC, SMA, N and others as well as connectors for specific applications. The more complex the signal, the more elaborate the connector must be. Environmental factors like high humidity and extreme temperature changes require special materials. Some connectors use gold plating to prevent corrosion and improve signal transfer.
  
  

The Center Pin

• "BNC" connectors carry computer signals.Hemera Technologies/PhotoObjects.net/Getty Images
  
  Every coaxial cable end connector will have a center pin to transfer the signal into the mating socket. For the F type connector, the center conductor protrudes through the connector body to become the center pin. Other connectors use crimp or solder connections. More elaborate or higher power coaxial cables have a hollow tube for a center conductor and a self-tapping center pin screws into it.
  
  

The Connector Body

• "N" connecors carry more complex high frequency signals.Hemera Technologies/PhotoObjects.net/Getty Images
  
  Coaxial cable end connector bodies are specially made to accommodate connection type and the size and type of coaxial cable. Most connector types come specially made for each type of cable. Many types can be specially ordered for various environmental conditions. Some connectors have all the components included in a single, manufactured unit that can be installed on the cable with a special tool. Typically, lower loss cable and cable for higher power will have a larger diameter to add more distance between the center conductor and the shield.
  
  

Ferrules and Nuts

• Higher quality materials make better connections.Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
  
  In most coaxial cable end connectors, the shield compresses against the inside of the connector body to make the connection. Crimp type connectors use a ferrule that compresses against the shield. Other types use a nut that compresses the shield against the connector body when it is tightened.
  
  

Gaskets and Washers

• Properly sealed connectors would prevent corrosion inside the cable.Hemera Technologies/PhotoObjects.net/Getty Images
  
  In outdoor connectors, two or more gaskets seat around the center conductor, the shield and the connector body to keep water out. In some connectors, the gaskets seat when compression nuts are tightened. Washers fit between the connector nut and the gasket to keep the nut from disfiguring the gasket as it compresses. Almost all coaxial cable end connectors come with detailed instructions on placement and installation of the components.