How to Remove Coaxial Cable Lock (Step-by-Step Guide)

The coaxial cable lock is commonly used in hotel rooms to prevent guests from moving or removing cables. It can be located behind the TV or the ceiling. Before moving or removing the coax cable at the hotel, you should know that you may have to pay or compensate for that.

If you have no problem with this, let’s find out how to remove coaxial cable lock, as demonstrated below.

What You Need to Remove Coax Cable Lock

How to Remove Coax Cable Lock (Detailed Instructions)

Step 1: Insert tissue paper between the lock and the cable

Start by inserting tissue paper between the cable lock and the coax cable. If you didn’t know, cable locks are usually attached to a wall mount; they typically come as a plastic sleeve.

Step 2: Add a pen cap clip inside the tissue

After completing the above step, add a clip inside this tissue paper. The pen cap clip must be wedged and connected to the coaxial cable, so the coaxial cable connector does not slip when removing the coaxial lock.

Step 3: Press the pen cap & remove the lock

After inserting the pen cap clip inside the tissue paper, it is time to firmly press the pen cap into the cable lock and rotate the lock counterclockwise. Continue pressing the pen cap and unscrewing the lock to prevent the cable connector from sliding back into the cable lock.

Note: If you can’t turn it by hand, it is best to use a wrench or pliers.

The Complete Guide to Replacing Coaxial Cable Connector

Step 1: Let’s start by buying a connector that matches your cable type.

Currently, the F-type connector is the most popular coax connector. It is possible to buy F-type connectors at your local hardware store; they are available in various styles, including crimp and twist-on. It is best to get help from the store staff if you do not know which one is best.

In addition, you can also find N-type connectors. These are often used in radio broadcasting.

Step 2: It is crucial to disconnect your coaxial cable from any power source. Working with coaxial cables is very dangerous, so you need to be very careful to avoid accidents.

Step 3: After protecting yourself well, it is time to make some preliminary incisions. Cutting the cable will not be simple because its first layer is quite hard.

Use a wire stripper to make a small slit at the end of your coaxial cable. Through the first cut, you will expose the copper wire of the cable. Continue with another small cut into the cable’s protective jacket. Do not forget to be careful with its wire braiding located under the jacket.

Note:

Step 4: Place the new connector at the end of your cable carefully. In case it does not fit entirely, use pliers to tighten the connector.

Step 5: You have two choices to complete this last step: crimping and compressing. Both ways are straightforward; furthermore, it doesn’t matter which way you choose as they produce equivalent results. First, let’s discover how to crimp the new connector.

If you choose this way, you put the end of the cable into the crimping tool and then press firmly on the handle of this tool until the new connector and coaxial cable are firmly connected. Finally, apply liquid electrical tape to the exposed areas.

Similar to the method above, insert the end of the cable into the compression tool too. Then, squeeze the handle of the tool firmly until the connector is firmly connected to the cable. Last but not least, apply liquid electrical tape to any exposed areas.

Note: Some crimping tools (and compression tools) work differently; follow the directions for the specific tool you choose.

To better understand how to remove coaxial cable connector, watch the video.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I loosen the nut of the coax cable without using a wrench?

You need to prepare large coins (it is best to use 2 pence coins). Then, place them on either side of the nut. Then grip them between the knuckles of the middle and index fingers and rotate them counterclockwise to loosen a coaxial cable nut.

2. What causes the coaxial cable to heat up?

In most cases, the cause lies in moisture. Ingress of moisture can cause harmful effects that increase the level of loss or attenuation in the cable. The amount of heat released is a consequence of the power loss in the cable.

3. Can my coax cable cause a fire?

Fortunately, its voltage is not enough to cause a fire on its own. The only situation that can cause a fire is during a power surge; if the wire goes bad, it can emit a tiny spark that can catch flammable materials around it.

4. Are all coaxial cables the same?

There are different types of coax cable. They vary according to gauge and impedance. The gauge indicates the thickness of the cable and is measured by the RG number or radio guide measurement. The higher the RG number, the thinner the center conductor core and vice versa.

5. Do coaxial cables go bad?

The coaxial cable is very fragile. It can break if you throw it around without being careful. You should keep the coax cable in a linear position. Even a slight bend can break the internal components of a coax cable. In addition, there are four other common causes that can cause a coax cable to go bad. These include:

6. What are the signs of a bad coax cable?

There are many signs that your cable is no longer in top condition; these include:

7. Can my coaxial cable shock me?

The short answer is yes. In most cases, coax cable will not give you a big shock. However, if you get shocked by a coax cable, call a professional electrician right away.

8. How long do coaxial cables last?

Most coax cables are designed to last at least 20 years underground. In fact, under ideal conditions, they usually last much longer than that.

9. Can I remove the coaxial cable connector at the hotel?

The short answer is no. It is not advisable because you may be fined.

Conclusion

Hopefully, this comprehensive guide and tips have helped you understand how to remove coaxial cable lock.

All in all, removing the coaxial cable lock and replacing the coaxial cable connector will become simple if you follow our step-by-step guide. Last but not least, please don’t forget that safety should always be your top priority.

Amaro Frank

Hi, I am Amaro Frank – the Wind Up Radio’s content editor and writer. Working with Adam is so much fun, as his stories and experiences enrich my knowledge about radio communications and radio accessories. My main tasks in Wind Up Radio are building content and generating great articles on different topics around radio accessories.