Manufacturers / CablePrep

Headquartered in Chester, Connecticut, Cable Prep was founded in 1979 as Ben Hughes Communication Products Company. Since that time, Cable Prep brand tools have been setting the industry standard for performance, reliability, and ease of use.

Cable Prep’s mission is to provide the best tools for installing telecommunications systems, offering a full product line that includes stripping, coring, crimping, cutting, and cleaning tools for drop-cable, hard-line, fiber, and wireless applications. Renowned for their precision and superior quality, all Cable Prep brand tools are designed, assembled, tested, and factory calibrated at their Chester facility to meet the exacting standards of a broad range of cable and connector manufacturers.

Featured New Tool: Heat Prep™ Cable Heating Tool

The Heat Prep CHT makes connector insertion easier than ever. It is the first tool of its kind that tackles the challenge of making reliable, rock-solid connections every time when working with dry, brittle, cold or cracked cable, especially in harsh winter conditions. It is also ideal when working with tough cable jacket types. By applying controlled heat, the CHT makes virtually any cable jacket more pliable and more workable, which saves technicians’ hands.

The CHT is designed to ensure precise connections when working with many different cable types, brands and gauges up to an outer dimension of .45″, including RG-6 and RG-11, direct-burial, LMR-style, and power cables.

The battery provides 15 to 45+ heating cycles per charge, depending on conditions, and a total life of 10,000 heat cycles. The indicator light shows charging status.

The CHT supports many cable types, brands and guages up to an outer dimension of .45″, including RG-6 and RG-11, direct-burial, LMR-style, and power cables.

Explore / Find the type of tool you need:

New Tools

Torque Screwdriver

Improper torque when installing RPDs and rSwitches can cause RF leaks, water leaks, and damage to modules from over-heating. All this is avoidable with the new Cable Prep Torque Screwdriver. Unlike other drivers that attempt to address this application, this tool will never exceed the specified torque (18 in/lbs for this application), even if a technician disregards or cannot hear the audible click emitted when the tool achieves the specified torque value. After the proper threshold is reached, the tool begins to spin freely, exerting zero force.

SCT Hardline Cable Stripping and Coring Tools

SCT stripping/coring tools are two tools in one. SCT cable strippers remove the aluminum sheath without scoring, while the cable coring function cores the dielectric and bevels the outer conductor on hardline cables.

SCT stripping/coring tools work on 0.412″ through 1.000″ hard-line cables, including PIII, T10, TX10, CommScope® Power Feeder, Times Fiber 50-ohm, PB10, MC2, and comparable HFC cables.

FOC Fiber/Kevlar Scissors

The FOC-300 Fiber/Kevlar Scissor tool from Cable Prep features rust-resistant, high-grade stainless-steel blades designed to cut Kevlar, with an integrated cable cutter, allowing installers to also cut a variety of other materials including soft metals such as aluminum and copper.

• The handle action is spring loaded, so the tool can be held firmly in hand and allows a universal fit, regardless of hand size.
• Lower serrated blade face grips material being cut and eliminates it from sliding out of jaws.
• Ribbed handle keeps the tool in place during operation.

The FOC-300 works for all varieties of fiber optic cable, including loose tube and bonded fibers. It is not recommended for wire larger than 6 gauge, and not for steel.

FOC-200 Fiber Optic Cable Stripping Tool

The FOC-300 Fiber/Kevlar Scissor tool from Cable Prep features rust-resistant, high-grade stainless-steel blades designed to cut Kevlar, with an integrated cable cutter, allowing installers to also cut a variety of other materials including soft metals such as aluminum and copper.

• The handle action is spring loaded, so the tool can be held firmly in hand and allows a universal fit, regardless of hand size.
• Lower serrated blade face grips material being cut and eliminates it from sliding out of jaws.
• Ribbed handle keeps the tool in place during operation.

The FOC-300 works for all varieties of fiber optic cable, including loose tube and bonded fibers. It is not recommended for wire larger than 6 gauge, and not for steel.

Drop Cable Tools

CPT Cable Stripping Tools

CPT coax cable strippers are factory-calibrated to remove the right amount of cable jacket, cut the braid and dielectric to the proper length, and expose the center conductor in one smooth operation. 

The CPT Series of cable stripping tools strip the jacket and cut back the braid and dielectric to the proper dimensions on braided and braid-replacement drop cables, including standard (single) through quad shielded RG-6, -59, -7, and -11 cables. CPT tools are also available for Belden, SCTE approved Commscope and Times Fiber Mini Coax, Plenum, Commscope® 59 Quad-series Headend, and Times Fiber TXFF cables.

Cobra 360 Compression Tools

Cobra 360 compression tools attach compression connectors used in drop cable applications. Low in cost and highly productive, the Cobra 360 features a performance-driven design that delivers easy, powerful leverage and ensures consistent, precise connections, every time.

• Ergonomic, compact and sturdy design can be operated easily and comfortably with either hand.
• Patented and efficient self releasing dogs facilitate easy, one-handed cable insertion and removal while ensuring 360-degree connector support.
• Dual Integrated Connector Supports enable quick conversions from one application to another without having to make adjustments or change tools altogether.

HCPT Cable Preparation Tool Kits

The HCPT contains all the necessary cable stripping and compression tools for drop application installation.

Available in different configurations, HCPT Cable Prep Combo Kits provide the right combination of tools for perfectly stripping and terminating RG-6, -59, -7, -11, and mini-coax cables.

PIK – Premises Installation Kits

PIK Premises Installation Kits are specifically configured with tools that ensure smooth drop installations. Kits are available in an array of designs to match your needs, and each kit includes a free tool pouch specifically designed for the tools.

The PIK is a cable assembly tool kit specifically for drop applications. Cable Prep PIK packages include all the cable installer tools necessary to ensure smooth premises installation of RG-6, -59, -11, and mini-coax cables.

PIK Cable Installation Kits come in a variety of configurations.

HCT Hex Crimp Tools

HCT steel-frame hex crimping tools crimp connectors and center pins on drop cables. The HCT series of coax crimp tools crimp connectors requiring sizes .042″ through .475″.

Hex Sizes Stamped on Tool Jaw:
Both major and minor hex sizes are clearly stamped on the tool jaw to facilitate picking the right tool for the application.

A Brass Nut for Easy Adjustment:
The nut on the adjustment wheel enables easy calibration in the field and ensures precise and consistent results. Because the nut is a common size, no special tool is required to make the adjustments.

An Innovative “Toggle Action” Design:
Unlike other crimp tools, HCT crimp tools do not use a ratchet closure that crimps even an improperly placed connector, resulting in a poor connection and signal loss. Instead, the innovative “toggle action” design ensures a proper crimp every time.

A Field Maintenance Kit:
Maintenance kits extend the life of HCT and ACT tools by keeping them in top operating condition. Each kit includes new pins, washers, linkage, a brass adjustment nut, and a cogged adjustment wheel.

Hardline Cable Tools – Stripping / Coring Tools

JCS Hardline Cable Jacket Stripping Tools

Durable and ergonomically designed, JCS cable jacket strippers cleanly remove the jackets on hard-line trunk and distribution cables. JCS tools strip the jacket on 0.412″ through 1.000″ PIII, T10, TX10, MC2, and PB10 cables; 0.540″, 0.715″, and 0.860″ CommScope® double-jacketed cables; CommScope 7mm, F320, and 0.500″ through 1.125″ QR hardline cables.

JCS tools strip the jacket on 0.412″ through 1.000″ PIII, T10, TX10, MC2, and PB10 cables; 0.540″, 0.715″, and 0.860″ CommScope® double-jacketed cables; CommScope 7mm, F320, and 0.500″ through 1.125″ QR hard-line cables; and Andrews CSA6 and CSA11 braid-replacement drop cables.

Dual-edged Steel Blades:
The JCS blade bites into and lifts the cable jacket with ease, cleanly removing the jacket without damaging the soft outer conductor. Made of heat-treated tool steel, the blade is easy to replace after a long life of sharpness.

Knurled Tool Body:
The JCS tool body is anodized and sealed to protect it from the elements. On non-QR tools, the body’s knurled gripping surface ensures a firm hold during the stripping operation.

Color-coded Guide Sleeves:
A plastic guide sleeve on non-QR tools keeps all metal surfaces away from the soft aluminum outer conductor. The guide sleeve is color-coded to match the corresponding Cable Prep brand SCT stripping/coring tool, thereby facilitating selection of the right tool for the application.

Patented Mandrel Pin:
A patented mandrel pin on QR tools protects the soft outer conductor during the jacket stripping operation.

SCT Hardline Cable Stripping and Coring Tools

SCT stripping/coring tools are two tools in one. SCT cable strippers remove the aluminum sheath without scoring, while the cable coring function cores the dielectric and bevels the outer conductor on hardline cables.

SCT stripping/coring tools work on 0.412″ through 1.000″ hard-line cables, including PIII, T10, TX10, CommScope® Power Feeder, Times Fiber 50-ohm, PB10, MC2, and comparable HFC cables.

MRT – Messenger Removal Tools

MRT messenger removal tools separate the messenger from the jacket on hardline cables. MRT tools strip the messenger from the end of the cable, and the companion WST web slitting tool removes the messenger in the middle of a cable run. When working on QR cables, WPT web planer tools can be used in combination with the WST tool as an alternative to using MRT-QR tools. The WST removes the messenger, and the WPT tools remove the remaining web. MRT and WST tools remove the messenger on any sized PIII, T10, TX10, or MC2 cable and .320″ through 1.125 ” CommScope® Quantum Reach® cables. WPT tools plane the web on .540″, .715″, and .860″ QR cables.

MRT and WST tools remove the messenger on any sized PIII, T10, TX10, or MC2 cable and .320″ through 1.125 ” CommScope® Quantum Reach® cables. WPT tools plane the web on .540″, .715″, and .860″ QR cables.

High-performance Design:
Sized for specific cables, MRT tools cleanly remove the messenger and web from the end of the main cable. The companion WST web slitting tool separates the messenger in the middle of a cable run, so that the messenger can be used to hang the cable.

When preparing a QR cable for connectorization, the WST tool and a WPT tool can be used in succession instead of using an MRT-QR tool. The WST tool removes the messenger, and the WPT tool removes the remaining web to leave the correct jacket thickness for the connector.

ART – Armor Removal Tools

ART armor removal tools strip the armored jacket from sub-surface cables. ART strippers remove the armor from CommScope® PIII, QR, and Cable Guard sub-surface cables.

ART strippers remove the armor from CommScope® PIII, QR, and Cable Guard sub-surface cables.

Multiple Blade Angles:
ART blades are made from hardened steel and ground to have multiple angles that aid lifting and cutting. The blades provide clean, accurate cuts time after time, but can be easily replaced when necessary.

Designed for Safe Operation:
Thanks to a safety-oriented design, the removed armor coil is kept away from the user’s hand.

Knurled Color-coded Bodies:
A knurled surface ensures a firm grip, while the color-coded body facilitiates picking the right tool for different sized cables.

Hardline Cable Tools – Accessories

Torque Screwdriver

Improper torque when installing RPDs and rSwitches can cause RF leaks, water leaks, and damage to modules from over-heating. All this is avoidable with the new Cable Prep Torque Screwdriver. Unlike other drivers that attempt to address this application, this tool will never exceed the specified torque (18 in/lbs for this application), even if a technician disregards or cannot hear the audible click emitted when the tool achieves the specified torque value. After the proper threshold is reached, the tool begins to spin freely, exerting zero force.

T-Handles

RTH ratchet T-handles install easily on any 3/8-inch shaft with three flats, making them ideal for use on all Cable Prep stripping/coring tools. Available in 4.5″ and 8″ lengths, the longer tool can be mounted in the center position to operate as a T or in the end position to be used as a conventional ratchet.

Sure-grip T-handles are also available for use on all Cable Prep SCT and AIO tools.

Ratchet T-handles reduce the effort required to strip and core coaxial cables.

All T-handles can be used on any Cable Prep SCT or AIO stripping/coring tool.

Hardline Cable Cutters

Made specifically for hardline applications, CC-8002 cable cutters keep cables in round, ensuring a clean cut, time after time. CC-8002 cable cutters slice through all hardline cables up to one inch in diameter without distorting or crimping the cable.

Fiber Optic Tools

FOC Fiber/Kevlar Scissors

The FOC-300 Fiber/Kevlar Scissor tool from Cable Prep features rust-resistant, high-grade stainless-steel blades designed to cut Kevlar, with an integrated cable cutter, allowing installers to also cut a variety of other materials including soft metals such as aluminum and copper.

• The handle action is spring loaded, so the tool can be held firmly in hand and allows a universal fit, regardless of hand size.
• Lower serrated blade face grips material being cut and eliminates it from sliding out of jaws.
• Ribbed handle keeps the tool in place during operation.

The FOC-300 works for all varieties of fiber optic cable, including loose tube and bonded fibers. It is not recommended for wire larger than 6 gauge, and not for steel.

FOC-200 Fiber Optic Cable Stripping Tool

The FOC-300 Fiber/Kevlar Scissor tool from Cable Prep features rust-resistant, high-grade stainless-steel blades designed to cut Kevlar, with an integrated cable cutter, allowing installers to also cut a variety of other materials including soft metals such as aluminum and copper.

• The handle action is spring loaded, so the tool can be held firmly in hand and allows a universal fit, regardless of hand size.
• Lower serrated blade face grips material being cut and eliminates it from sliding out of jaws.
• Ribbed handle keeps the tool in place during operation.

The FOC-300 works for all varieties of fiber optic cable, including loose tube and bonded fibers. It is not recommended for wire larger than 6 gauge, and not for steel.

FOCUS® Fiber Optic Connector … Tool

Specially designed for servicing fiber optic cable connectors in high-density patch panels in Central Office, FTTP, and OSP applications, the FOCUS tool makes it easy to insert and remove a small-form-factor (SFF) connector without disturbing adjacent connections. Its patented design makes it truly unique in the industry. The FOCUS tool works with the follow fiber optic connector types: SC, SC2, MU, LC, and MTRJ connectors and different cables, including 2mm, 3mm, 1.6mm, jacketed, and 900um buffered cables. It is designed for accessing high-density patch panels – including those having 144 or more ports – and SFF connectors.

The FOCUS tool works with SC, SC2, MU, LC, and MTRJ connectors and different cables, including 2mm, 3mm, 1.6mm, jacketed, and 900um buffered cables. It is designed for accessing high-density patch panels – including those having 144 or more ports – and SFF connectors.

Long, Narrow Jaws:
Long, narrow patented jaws facilitate insertion and removal of connectors without disturbing adjacent cables, even when working on densely populated panels. This ensures uninterrupted service on neighboring channels and eliminates unnecessary stress on delicate fibers.

An Ergonomic Design:
The tool body is comfortable to hold and easy to navigate with either hand. It is designed for one-handed operation and accomodates both large and small hands. Because the spring-loaded jaws are long and tapered, they easily reach the back of patch-panel enclosures. The tool design prevents pinching the operator’s hand when opening or closing the jaws.

An Integrated Flashlight:
A patented removable flashlight improves visibility while navigating through a congested enclosure. The light illuminates individual ports and connectors on the panel as well as the tool tips, which allows the tool to be used in low-light situations. The two standard AAA batteries can be easily changed in the field.

Made of specially formulated material, the patented tips of the tool provide a firm grasp on small-form-factor connectors. The jaws support the cable to keep it from bending and protect the delicate fibers within.

During insertion of LC connectors, the patented notch on one tip prevents the latch from being depressed, ensuring positive latching of the connector. During removal, the straight tip depresses the latch and frees the connector from its port.

Non-locking Design:
The patented tool jaws are spring-loaded and will not lock onto the connector, thus avoiding damage to the connector and cable if the tool is dropped during use.

Ease of Visibility and Storage:
Made of attractive bright yellow and translucent blue material, the tool is easily located if dropped or misplaced in a poorly lit environment. It fits conveniently in a holster that mounts to a standard tool belt; the holster is available from Cable Prep.

Non-conducting Material:
The tool is made of non-conducting, dielectric plastic materials that eliminate the potential for shorts during use.

Equipment Damage Mitigation:
Using the FOCUS tool ensures proper snap fits and reduces the risk of damage to connector bodies, ferrule tips, sleeves, cables, and panel ports that might otherwise result from forced insertions and removals.

Durability:
With the exception of an easily replaced flashlight, the tool can be dropped from a height of ten feet without damage. It can be used in indoor and outdoor environments and has an operating temperature range of -40oC to +95oC.

Fiber Buffer Tube Cutter

CPT tools for fiber applications cut back fiber buffer tube to the proper length to expose the fibers.

CPT Fiber Buffer Tube Cutters work on 0.032″, 0.060″, and 0.080″ fiber cables.

An Ergonomic, Efficient Design:
The CPT body is comfortable to hold and easy to operate with either hand.

Hardened, Tool-steel Blades:
Made of the highest quality steel, CPT blades ensure optimum performance over a long life.

Factory Calibration:
Pre-calibrated dimensions for different applications help to ensure that cables are prepared properly.

Patented Clean-out Feature:
The patented cleanout feature of the CPT tool automatically removes excess buffer tube from the tool after stripping.

Color-coded Bodies and Cartridges:
Color-coding of the tool bodies and replaceable cartridges makes it easy to identify the right tool for the application. The cartridges snap easily into place.

Lightweight Durability:
Rugged enough for the toughest jobs, lightweight CPT tools offer consistent, precision performance even under harsh conditions.