Micro coaxial cables are the tiny workhorses connecting high-speed data in devices like cameras, drones, medical equipment, and sophisticated electronics. While they seem fragile, proper storage significantly extends their lifespan, saves money on replacements, and prevents frustrating signal dropouts or failures. Here’s how to do it right:
The Core Principle: Prevent Damage Before It Happens
Micro coax is vulnerable to two main enemies during storage: kinking/bending and stress on the connectors. Internal damage to the delicate shielding and dielectric is often invisible until the cable fails. Protect the cable body and connections.
Essential Storage Rules:
- Avoid Sharp Bends & Kinks AT ALL COSTS:
- Never bend the cable sharply, especially near the connectors. The minimum bend radius varies by cable type (check specs if possible), but as a rule, bends should always be smooth and gradual, never tighter than the cable’s own diameter. Imagine trying not to crease paper.
- Kinking is a Killer: A single kink can permanently damage the internal structure, degrading signal quality or causing complete failure. Handle and store with this constantly in mind.
- Coil Gently, the Right Way:
- Loose Over-Under Technique: This is the gold standard for professional cable coiling and prevents internal twisting and stress.
- Hold one connector in your left hand. Make a large loop by turning your right hand away from you (this is the “over” turn).
- For the next loop, turn your right hand towards you (this is the “under” turn).
- Continue alternating over and under loops naturally. The cable should lay flat without twisting.
- Avoid the “Wrap-Around-Your-Hand” Method: This twists the cable internally, leading to fatigue and failure over time.
- Secure Gently, Not Tightly:
- Use Velcro Straps: These are ideal. Wrap them loosely enough that they hold the coil shape without pinching or constricting the cable.
- Use Cable Ties? Carefully: If you must use zip/cable ties:
- Never pull them tight. Only close them loosely enough to hold the coil together.
- Never put them around a bent cable section (like near the connector).
- Avoid Plastic Degradation: Cheap plastic ties can become brittle and crack over time, potentially damaging the cable sheath.
- Never use rubber bands! They degrade, get sticky, and can constrict the cable.
- Protect the Connectors:
- Dust Caps/Plugs: If the connectors came with protective caps, ALWAYS use them when the cable is stored. Keep mating surfaces clean.
- Avoid Strain: Don’t let the connector bear the weight of the coiled cable. Store it so the connectors aren’t dangling or crushed.
- Separate Tangles: Store individual cables separately or ensure they aren’t tightly bundled together where connectors can bang against each other.
- Choose the Right Storage Environment:
- Cool & Dry: Avoid extreme heat (attics, hot cars) and humidity (basements, garages without climate control). Heat degrades plastics and insulation; moisture promotes corrosion.
- Dark: Prolonged direct sunlight can degrade cable jacket materials over time.
- Clean: Dust and debris can find their way into connectors.
- Safe From Pressure & Crushing: Don’t store under heavy objects or where items could fall on the coil. Choose a drawer, dedicated storage box, or shelf.
- Use Appropriate Storage Solutions:
- Reel it Up (Gently): For longer lengths, use a wide-diameter storage reel. Wind carefully, maintaining loose, smooth loops without overlapping tension. Avoid narrow spools that force tight bends.
- Dedicated Cases/Bags: A simple padded pouch or compartmentalized electronics case is perfect for shorter cables. Keeps them clean, organized, and protected from crushing.
- Hanging: You can loosely hang coiled micro coax over wide hooks (like thick plastic hooks designed for cords), but ensure the bend is very gradual and nothing is pinched. Avoid thin metal hooks that can dig into the sheath.
- Drawer Organizers: Use dividers or small boxes within a drawer to keep coils neat and separated.
What NOT to Do:
- Don’t wrap tightly around devices or adapters.
- Don’t pinch cables in drawer slams or box lids.
- Don’t use staples, paperclips, or anything metal to secure coils.
- Don’t store tangled in a jumbled mess.
- Don’t store bent sharply, especially near the ends.
- Don’t overtighten any fasteners.
Your Gear Will Thank You
Investing a little extra care and using the right techniques when storing your micro coaxial cables pays significant dividends. By preventing kinks, minimizing internal stress, protecting connectors, and choosing a good environment, you ensure reliable performance for years to come, maximizing the value of your sensitive electronic equipment. Good storage is simple protection!
