About this interactive
The layers of a coaxial cable, from the inside out, as the lesson takes them apart:
- **Center conductor:** where the data is carried.
- **Dielectric insulator:** keeps electricity from flowing between the center conductor and the foil.
- **Foil shield:** protects the data from EMI.
- **Braided shield:** a second shield over the foil.
- **Jacket:** the outside, so no conductor is exposed.
The two connectors the lesson names:
- **F-type:** threads inside; you screw it on with several turns.
- **BNC:** slides on and locks with about a quarter turn, a slot riding over a pin on the jack.
What you'll learn
- Find each layer of a coaxial cable, from the center conductor out through the dielectric insulator, foil shield and braided shield to the jacket, and say what each one does
- Tell an F-type connector, which screws on by its threads, from a BNC connector, which pushes on and locks with a quarter turn
Aligned to
CompTIA Network+
1.5
Compare and contrast transmission media and transceivers.
Cisco CCST Networking
3.1
Identify cables and connectors commonly used in local area networks
CompTIA A+ Core 1
3.1
Explain basic cable types and their connectors, features, and purposes.
Key terms
- Coaxial Cable
- A type of electrical cable consisting of a center conductor, dielectric insulator, foil shield, braided shield, and outer jacket used to transmit data signals.
- Dielectric Insulator
- A non-conductive layer surrounding the center conductor in a coaxial cable that prevents electrical interference between the conductor and the outer shields.
- F-Type Connector
- A threaded coaxial cable connector that is secured by screwing it onto the port, requiring multiple rotations to fasten tightly.
- Electromagnetic Interference
EMI
- Unwanted electrical or electromagnetic energy that disrupts the operation of electronic equipment or degrades the performance of network cabling and wireless signals. EMI can be caused by motors, fluorescent lights, and other electronic devices operating nearby.
Topics
Coaxial Cable
F Type Connector
Bnc Connector
Interactive
Hotspot
About TechKnowSurge
TechKnowSurge builds IT and cybersecurity professionals through hands-on, concept-first training built around real understanding — not memorization. Free interactive tools, structured programs, and 25+ years of real-world experience, all in one place.
Explore free tools and programs →