Cable Coiling

The test of a real pro is whether they can coil cables "properly".

There are right and wrong ways to coil a cable. If done incorrectly it can be prevented from proper coiling in the furture and can even damage the cable and connectors. Cables can be tangled and knotted easily if not coiled properly.

• Cables should not be wrapped between hand and elbow.

• Cables should not be joined end to end and knotted.

• Cables should not be coiled too tightly.

The trick is to make the twist in alternate loops run in opposite directions, so there is no overall twist in the cable and it can "throw out". Sometimes known as "over and under" coiling.

Confused? There's a video showing you exactly what to do!

http://stagecraft.theprices.net/gallery/cablewrap/

Figure 8 coiling naturally introduces no twists, and is useful for heavy cables - eg a wheeled cable trunk with two fixed internal "coiling posts".

See Also

Cable Tester

Cable Repairs