How to Make a N Cable Using Solder and Clamp Connectors

N-type cables consist of a coaxial cable fitted with N-type connectors, commonly used with a wide range of radio communication equipment, primarily in the UHF band.

While several methods exist for attaching these connectors, the most prevalent are soldering and clamping, and a combination of soldering and crimping.

This guide will focus on the former, providing a step-by-step walkthrough of how to assemble an N-type cable using soldering and clamping techniques.

Cut the cable to the specified length. The key point to pay attention to here is the “cut length.”
Even if the total length of the cable is the same, the “cut length” required will vary depending on the reference point for the overall length and the internal dimensions of the connector.

When the total cable length is short, or when the cable is used for measurement applications, precise cut lengths are especially important.

･ If the total length is specified from the tip of the connector: The cut length will be shorter than the total length.
･ If the total length is specified from the base of the connector: The cut length will be longer than the total length.

Pass the “clamp,” “washer,” and “gasket” onto the coaxial cable in that order, then cut the outer jacket as specified in the cable mounting diagram.
When stripping the cable, make sure that the dimensions match those given in the mounting specification sheet. If you are cutting with a knife, it is sometimes helpful to mark the cable with a marker in advance.

Next, pass the clamp from the exposed outer conductor (braid) side, and unbraid the outer conductor. This unbraiding process is essential for the following steps.

Align and fold back the outer conductor (braid) that was unbraided in the previous step, then cut the insulator as specified in the cable mounting diagram.
When stripping the insulator, make sure that the dimensions match those specified in the mounting specification sheet.

After folding back the outer conductor, use nippers to trim it to be just slightly shorter than the clamp.
If it is cut too short, the cable may come loose; if it is too long, the shell may not fit properly and the center contact may be pushed down.

Attach the center contact to the inner conductor (core wire) and solder it in place.
Be careful to ensure that the solder does not bulge up and that there are no gaps between the center contact and the insulator.

Soldering requires skill, as defects known as "cold solder joints" ("imo soldering" in Japanese) can occur due to excessive solder, overly high temperatures, or low temperatures. These defects include trapped air causing expansion, or rough surfaces caused by evaporation.

At Tyclon, we conduct an internal “soldering test,” and experienced technicians carry out careful soldering work.
After soldering, the contact is pulled using radio pliers (to about 1 kg of force) to confirm that there are no issues.

In addition, we use dedicated jigs to hold the parts in place, ensuring precise and stable soldering.

Attach the shell and raise the fastening fittings. Tightening with a spanner or nut will complete the assembly.

As you turn the spanner or nut, you will hear a slight tightening sound from the internal gasket—this is the sign that the process is complete.
If it is difficult to determine when fastening is complete, or if a specific torque specification is required, please contact us.

At Tyclon, we use dedicated jigs to secure the components, making tightening easier.