Coaxial cable assemblies are critical components in signal transmission systems, used in industries like telecommunications, aerospace, and broadcasting. Improper storage when not in use can lead to signal degradation, physical damage, or even complete failure—costing time and money to replace. To preserve their performance and extend their lifespan, follow these practical, science-backed storage guidelines.
1. Clean Thoroughly Before Storage
Dirt, dust, oil, or moisture on the cable or connectors can corrode metal parts, block signal paths, or attract mold. Before storing:
- Use a lint-free microfiber cloth to wipe the outer jacket of the cable, removing surface dust and debris.
- For connectors (e.g., SMA, BNC, N-type), dampen a small part of the cloth with isopropyl alcohol (70-90% concentration) to gently clean the contact points. Avoid using harsh chemicals (like acetone) that can damage plastic or rubber components.
- Let the cable and connectors air-dry completely (10-15 minutes) before moving to the next step—never store damp assemblies.
2. Organize and Coil Properly to Avoid Physical Stress
Coaxial cables have a rigid inner conductor and dielectric layer; bending or coiling them too tightly can crack the dielectric, twist the inner conductor, or damage the outer shield. Follow these rules:
- Use a “figure-8” or loose spiral coil: Avoid tight circles. The minimum coil radius should be at least 10 times the cable’s outer diameter (e.g., a 5mm diameter cable needs a coil radius of 50mm or more). This prevents stress on the internal structure.
- Secure coils with non-abrasive ties: Use Velcro straps or soft nylon ties (not metal wire or tight plastic zip ties) to hold coils in place. Ties should be loose enough to allow slight movement—over-tightening can indent the outer jacket.
- Label clearly: Attach a tag to each coil noting the cable type (e.g., RG-6, RG-58), connector type, length, and last use date. This saves time when retrieving assemblies later and prevents mix-ups.
3. Choose the Right Storage Environment
Environmental factors are the biggest threat to long-term storage. Aim for a space that controls temperature, humidity, light, and exposure to harmful substances:
- Temperature: Keep storage areas between 10°C (50°F) and 25°C (77°F). Extreme heat (above 30°C/86°F) can soften the outer jacket and melt the dielectric; extreme cold (below 0°C/32°F) can make the jacket brittle and prone to cracking.
- Humidity: Maintain relative humidity (RH) at 40-60%. Use a dehumidifier if the space is too damp (e.g., basements) or a humidifier if it’s too dry (e.g., desert climates). High humidity causes corrosion; low humidity dries out rubber gaskets in connectors.
- Light: Store assemblies in a dark or low-light area. Ultraviolet (UV) light from sunlight or fluorescent bulbs degrades the outer jacket (making it stiff and porous) and fades labeling.
- Chemicals and contaminants: Keep cables away from oil, grease, solvents, or corrosive gases (e.g., near industrial machinery or cleaning supplies). These substances can eat through the jacket or corrode connector metals.
4. Protect Connectors and Prevent Impact
Connectors are the most delicate part of the assembly—even small scratches on contact points can disrupt signal transmission. To protect them:
- Use dust caps: Cover all male and female connectors with manufacturer-provided dust caps (or compatible replacements). If caps are lost, use clean, plastic bags sealed with tape (ensure no tape touches the contact points).
- Avoid stacking heavy items: Store coiled cables on shelves or in plastic bins—never place heavy equipment (e.g., tools, metal boxes) on top of them. Weight can crush the cable or bend connectors out of shape.
- Use dedicated storage containers: For small or high-value assemblies (e.g., aerospace-grade cables), use hard plastic cases with foam inserts. The foam should be cut to fit the cable and connectors, preventing movement during storage.
5. Inspect Regularly During Long-Term Storage
Even with proper initial storage, check assemblies every 1-2 months if stored for 6+ months:
- Look for signs of damage: Cracks in the outer jacket, rust on connectors, or loose ties that cause uncoiling.
- Check humidity and temperature: Use a hygrometer/thermometer to ensure the environment stays within the recommended range.
- Test connectors (if possible): For critical applications, use a multimeter to check for continuity in the inner conductor—this ensures no hidden damage.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storing cables on the floor: This exposes them to dust, water leaks, and foot traffic.
- Coiling cables too tightly: As noted, this damages internal components.
- Mixing clean and dirty assemblies: Dirty cables can contaminate clean ones, leading to widespread corrosion.
By following these steps, you’ll keep your coaxial cable assemblies in optimal condition, ensuring they perform reliably when you need them next. Proper storage isn’t just about “putting them away”—it’s an investment in the longevity of your signal systems.
When it comes to high-quality coaxial cable assemblies that stand up to storage and repeated use, FRS brand factory is your trusted partner. FRS designs its assemblies with durable jackets, corrosion-resistant connectors, and robust internal structures—making them easy to store and long-lasting. Whether you need standard or custom coaxial solutions, FRS prioritizes performance and durability, so you can focus on your work, not replacing damaged cables. Choose FRS for coaxial assemblies that meet your storage and operational needs.
