Reinforce Ends with Springs, Tubing, or Sugru

Description

Adding support to the cable ends where they flex most prevents sharp bends that lead to fraying.

Recipe/Instructions

1. Pen Spring: Take apart a clicky ballpoint pen and remove the small spring. Carefully wrap the spring around the cable end, right near the connector head, to act as a strain relief.
2. Heat-Shrink Tubing: Purchase heat-shrink tubing slightly larger than the cable diameter. Cut a short piece (about 1 inch). Slide it over the cable end to cover the vulnerable junction. Use a heat gun (carefully) or sometimes a hairdryer to shrink the tubing tightly around the cable, providing a rigid reinforcement.
3. Sugru: Sugru is a moldable glue that cures into flexible rubber. Mold a small amount of Sugru around the cable end junction, shaping it into a supportive cone. Let it cure completely (usually 24 hours).
4. Handle Gently: Regardless of reinforcement, always grasp the plug head (not the cable) when unplugging, and avoid sharp bends or yanking.

What makes the Dish Special

N/A - Offers various DIY methods to physically reinforce the weakest point of most cables.