Can I make my own component cables?

[tnedutsatu]

Hello,

Currently my HR21 is connected to my HDTV in my living room via HDMI cable. I'm planning to mirror my HR21 to a HDTV in my office via component cables. My question is:

Can I make my own component (and audio) cables using RG6 coax and those RG6 Compression RCA Connectors? Attached is a picture of the connectors I'm talking about.

Any other suggestions are welcomed.

Thanks,
tnedutsatu

[tnedutsatu]

Won't let me upload pictures.

[carl6]

That should work just fine. You also need to get audio there. You need 5 or more posts (I think) to be able to do links and post pictures.

Carl

[tnedutsatu]

Thanks Carl,

Let see if I can post after this reply.

[Teronzhul]

F-Conn makes some nice RG6 RCA compression connectors. I've used them and like them a lot, and they sell colored rubber rings to identify the individual connectors. The only real problem with them is that not too many compression tools can actually be used to terminate them. I have a Cablepro LCCT that can, but it is a $90+ tool.

http://mccartenco.net/product.php?productid=883&cat=10&page=2

[Drew2k]

You can also use CAT5 cable if that's more convenient for you.

http://www.smarthome.com/7829da2.html

[Ext 721]

I'd dare to wager that home-made cables of this type probably beat the pants off anything "monster" makes.

[David MacLeod]

fwiw, I have it set up so the component outputs on 1 unit can attach to a wall plate that is then tied to another room using cat 5 cable with rca ends sautered onto each end. I did this so I can take output off any component in living room and record it onto pc in another room.

[BkwSoft]

In the past I've just used standard "F" connectors on the coax and then used adapters to change them to RCA. You can pick up the adapters at your local Radio Shack and you won't have to worry about having to buy any special tools to do it.

I would stay far away from just soldering RCA connectors to regular Cat5 cable. Without a balun between the RCA (Coax) output and the unshielded twisted pair wire you opening yourself up for a lot of potential problems. The Component to Cat5 solutions are somewhat pricey because they actually convert the component outputs to balanced lines on the Cat5 so they are less susceptible to external noise.

[houskamp]

also check monoprice.com.. they may have premades availible

[tnedutsatu]

Thank you eveyone for your input. The Cat5e options looks a little pricey. I have plenty of Coax cable so I think that will be the route I will take. Thanks to all for your input. I've also decided to use a bundled cable wallplate rather than buying special wallplates and inserts.

Thanks again,

Tnedutsatu

[BattleZone]

I use RG59 and compression RCAs for custom installs requiring extended component or analog audio. Works great, but you do need a tool that will work with the compression fittings.

[reh523]

45 dollars for 100' cable (5 cables) gets you HD Video and Stereo Audio. That is what I did for my bedroom....

http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=102&cp_id=10235&cs_id=1023501&p_id=2672&seq=1&format=2

[dalime]

If you want to go that route, I would run 4 lines using one of these to get digital audio.
http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=104&cp_id=10423&cs_id=1042302&p_id=2948&seq=1&format=2

Of course that all depends on whether your end source will accept it, but it's a cheap option.

[WhoRu]

I am thinking about doing the same as tnedutsatu instead of adding another receiver and have a couple of questions. Would there be a discernable difference between RG59 and RG6? My run would be approximately 35 to 40 feet.

Also I would be going through the wall of adjoining rooms and wondering if there are compatible wallplates available for the one room so as to make the installation look presentable as opposed to just have a cable poking through a hole in the wall. It would be hidden in the other room. I would most likely need the 5-cable option for component and audio.

I was aghast at prices of regular component cables and pleasantly surprised when I did a search and found this thread with your links to monoprice.com.

I'm not really much of a techie so please speak slowly in your responses.

Thanks for any insights.

[carl6]

Over 40 feet, there should be no difference between using RG59 or RG6 for component video/audio.

[MountainMan10]

You might want to check out RapidRun Cables. There not cheap but they work well and there is only a single cable to run through the walls.

[BattleScott]

I am thinking about doing the same as tnedutsatu instead of adding another receiver and have a couple of questions. Would there be a discernable difference between RG59 and RG6? My run would be approximately 35 to 40 feet.

Also I would be going through the wall of adjoining rooms and wondering if there are compatible wallplates available for the one room so as to make the installation look presentable as opposed to just have a cable poking through a hole in the wall. It would be hidden in the other room. I would most likely need the 5-cable option for component and audio.

I was aghast at prices of regular component cables and pleasantly surprised when I did a search and found this thread with your links to monoprice.com.

I'm not really much of a techie so please speak slowly in your responses.

Thanks for any insights.

The same can be done with HDMI for around $100 depending on how long a cable you need. An HDMI splitter can be used to drive two sets and will also deliver the digital audio. HDMI wallplates are also available.

[Grentz]

These work great to convert regular coax cables to RCA cables:
http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=104&cp_id=10401&cs_id=1040117&p_id=4130&seq=1&format=2

If you do not have the right tool to do compression RCA, but do have one for F connectors, you can make custom cables and use these adapters.

[WhoRu]

Thanks for all the suggestions. It looks like I have a lot of options but am struggling to find wallplates except the RapidRun ones.

[BattleScott]

Thanks for all the suggestions. It looks like I have a lot of options but am struggling to find wallplates except the RapidRun ones.

Monoprice (http://www.monoprice.com/products/subdepartment.asp?c_id=104&cp_id=10425) carries them.

Some of the big-box retailers have a limited selection of home-theater supplies. They may be able to special order what they don't carry in the store.

[WhoRu]

Thanks BattleScott, that link hit home. I was on the site but never found the right page. I decided to go with the coax and will come in around $70 with cables, wallplate, and shipping included.

Considering I first looked at Monster cables (YIKES) I am ecstatic at where I ended up, all thanks to you guys on this thread and these forums. I learn something new every time I check in.

Thanks to all!