Hardline coaxial cable is widely used in CATV, broadband, telecommunications, and other communication infrastructure where dependable signal transmission and durable cable connections are important. Preparing this type of cable for connector installation requires more than a standard cable stripper. Coring tools are specialized equipment designed to prepare hardline COAX cable by removing the required sections of the cable and creating the correct profile for termination.
For technicians working with aerial, underground, residential, commercial, or industrial cable installations, having the appropriate coax coring tools can make cable preparation faster, more consistent, and easier to manage. Jonard Tools manufactures more than 33 unique coring tools for the CATV, COAX, VDV, and satellite industries, covering several hardline cable sizes and configurations.
What Are Coring Tools?
Coring tools are specialized tools used to prepare hardline coaxial cable for connector installation. Unlike conventional cable stripping tools that primarily remove the outer jacket, a coring tool works deeper into the cable structure.
During the coring process, the tool removes a controlled section of the dielectric material while preparing the outer conductor and center conductor for termination. Depending on the tool design, the outer conductor can be beveled and the center conductor can be chamfered to create a suitable cable profile.
This controlled preparation is particularly important for hardline COAX cables because their construction is different from smaller flexible coaxial cables commonly used in residential applications.
Why Are Coax Coring Tools Important?
Hardline coaxial cables have a relatively rigid construction and are manufactured in different sizes. Preparing them manually with general purpose tools can make it difficult to achieve consistent dimensions.
Using purpose built coax coring tools provides several advantages:
- Consistent cable preparation
- Controlled core length
- Proper outer conductor preparation
- Center conductor chamfering
- Faster cable termination
- Reduced preparation errors
- Better repeatability across installations
- Improved technician efficiency
Jonard’s hardline coring tools are designed to bevel the outer conductor and chamfer the center conductor. Several models also allow the center conductor length to be adjusted according to the installation requirement.
How Does a Coax Coring Tool Work?
The exact procedure depends on the tool and cable type, but the general concept is straightforward.
First, the cable is cut to the required length. The coring tool is then positioned over the cable. As the tool is rotated, its cutting components remove the necessary material and prepare the cable for connector installation.
Jonard’s HSC series is designed to strip and core compatible hardline COAX cable in one operation. The tool can remove the jacket, core the dielectric, bevel the aluminum sheath, and chamfer the center conductor.
Some tools use a ratcheting T-handle to make manual operation easier. The handle can also be removed on applicable models so that a drill can be attached for faster coring.
Coring vs. Stripping: What’s the Difference?
Although the terms are sometimes used together, coring and stripping are different cable preparation processes.
Stripping generally refers to removing the outer jacket or selected layers of a cable.
Coring involves removing the dielectric material from a specific section of hardline coaxial cable and preparing the internal cable structure for connector installation.
Because both operations may be required during a hardline cable installation, some tools combine the two functions.
For example, Jonard’s HSC-625 can perform stripping and coring in one tool. It is designed for 5/8-inch hardline COAX cable and can bevel the outer conductor, chamfer the center conductor, and prepare a total core and strip length of 3.50 inches.
Types of Coax Coring Tools
Different hardline cable sizes require different coring tools. Selecting the correct tool is therefore one of the most important parts of the preparation process.
1/2-Inch Hardline Coring Tools
The 1/2-inch category is used for compatible .500-inch hardline COAX cables. Jonard’s HC-50 is designed for 1/2-inch T10500 Times Fiber T10 COAX cable, CommScope P3, and similar .500-inch cables.
The HC-50 uses a heavy-duty aluminum body with heat treated high carbon steel cutting components. Its center conductor length can be adjusted to preset lengths, and the ratcheting T-handle can be removed for drill attachment.
5/8-Inch Coring Tools
For 5/8-inch hardline cable, the HC-625 is designed for compatible .625-inch cables, including Times Fiber T10625 and CommScope P3 cable.
The tool provides adjustable center conductor preparation from 1/2 inch to 1 1/4 inches, giving technicians greater flexibility when different connector requirements are involved.
3/4-Inch Coring Tools
The HC-75 is designed for .750-inch hardline COAX applications. Jonard also offers the HSC-75, which combines coring and stripping functions for compatible 3/4-inch cables.
The HSC-75 can perform coring and stripping simultaneously and includes hardened steel cutting components designed for repeated professional use.
7/8-Inch Coring Tools
Larger hardline cables require appropriately sized equipment. Jonard’s coring tool range includes tools for .875-inch cable, providing options for technicians working with larger hardline COAX installations. The company’s overall coring range covers cable sizes from approximately .500 inches to .875 inches, as well as Quantum Reach configurations.
All in One Coring and Stripping Tools
A technician may need to perform both jacket stripping and coring before a connector can be installed. Carrying separate tools for every stage can increase equipment requirements and preparation time.
All in one coax coring tools combine multiple preparation functions into a single tool. Jonard’s HSC series is designed to core and strip compatible hardline COAX cable in one operation. The stripping component can also be removed on applicable models, providing flexibility when working with different cable conditions.
This type of design can be useful for technicians who want to reduce the number of individual tools carried into the field.
Manual and Drill Assisted Coring
Professional technicians may need to prepare a large number of cables during a project. Manual operation can be suitable for individual cable preparations, while drill assisted operation can help increase productivity during repetitive work.
Jonard’s hardline coring tools feature removable T-handles on applicable models. Removing the handle allows the tool to be attached to a drill, making the coring process easier and faster.
However, drill assisted use should always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and recommended operating procedures to avoid damaging the cable or tool.
Features to Look for in Professional Coring Tools
Not every coring tool provides the same capabilities. When selecting a tool, consider the following features.
Cable Compatibility
The tool must match the cable size and construction. Using the wrong tool can result in an incorrect core profile or damage to the cable.
Durable Cutting Components
Coring requires cutting through several cable materials. Jonard uses heat treated high carbon steel for the coring blades and bits in its hardline tools.
Adjustable Center Conductor Length
Different connectors can require different center conductor lengths. An adjustable design can provide greater flexibility. For example, the HC-625 allows the center conductor length to be adjusted from 1/2 inch to 1 1/4 inches.
Ratcheting Handle
A ratcheting T-handle can make manual coring more comfortable and efficient. It allows the technician to rotate the tool while maintaining a controlled grip.
Replaceable Components
Regular field use eventually results in wear to cutting components. Tools with replaceable blades and coring bits can extend the useful life of the main tool. Jonard provides replacement coring bits and blades for applicable models.
Common Mistakes When Using Coax Coring Tools
Even with a professional tool, correct preparation technique is important. Some common mistakes include:
Using the wrong cable size tool: A tool designed for .500-inch cable should not automatically be used on .625-inch or .750-inch cable.
Incorrect conductor length: The center conductor should be prepared according to the connector and manufacturer’s specifications.
Ignoring cable condition: Flooded or damaged cables may require a different preparation procedure. Jonard provides specific instructions for flooded jacketed cable rather than treating it the same as non-flooded cable.
Forcing the tool: Excessive force can damage the cable or cutting components. The tool should be operated according to its intended procedure.
Neglecting blade maintenance: Worn cutting components can affect the consistency of cable preparation. Replaceable blades and coring bits should be inspected and replaced when necessary.
How to Choose the Right Coring Tool
Before purchasing coax coring tools, identify the exact cable being prepared. Consider:
- Cable diameter
- Cable manufacturer and series
- Hardline or Quantum Reach construction
- Required center conductor length
- Connector requirements
- Manual or drill assisted operation
- Need for simultaneous stripping
- Replacement blade availability
- Frequency of field use
Jonard’s current coring range includes individual coring tools, combination coring and stripping tools, Quantum Reach models, and replacement components. The available models cover several common hardline cable sizes and configurations.
Professional Coring Tools from Jonard Tools
Proper preparation is essential when installing connectors on hardline coaxial cable. Coring tools provide a controlled way to remove the required dielectric material and prepare the outer and center conductors for termination.
Jonard Tools offers a comprehensive selection of coax coring tools for CATV, COAX, VDV, and satellite applications. Its range includes tools for .500-inch, .625-inch, .750-inch, and .875-inch hardline cables, along with Quantum Reach options and combination coring and stripping tools.
For professional technicians, selecting a coring tools that matches the exact cable size and connector requirements can improve preparation consistency and field productivity. With durable construction, replaceable cutting components, adjustable conductor preparation, and manual or drill assisted operation on applicable models, purpose built coring equipment can be a valuable part of a professional CATV and coaxial cable toolkit.