A connector or similar apparatus for connecting or terminating at least one cable or cable section is provided. The connector includes at least one stepped cavity for receiving a cooperatingly sized and configured stepped conductor end of the cable or cable section. The stepped cavity includes two or more adjoining cavity sections of decreasing diameter. After insertion of the stepped conductor end of the cable or cable section into the stepped cavity, the cable or cable section may be affixed to the connector via crimping or other suitable coupling techniques. Prior to insertion, the stepped conductor end is cleaned so as to remove oxidation, dirt and debris, and/or strand fill, etc.