Explanation
Overview Coaxial cable loss , also called attenuation , is the reduction in RF signal power as it travels through a transmission line. Every coaxial cable introduces some loss, and that loss increases with frequency and cable length. Factors Affecting Loss Operating frequency. Cable length. Cable diameter. Dielectric material. Conductor quality. Connector quality. Reducing Feed-Line Loss Use the shortest practical cable. Select low-loss coax. Use quality connectors. Avoid damaged cables. Protect outdoor connections from moisture. Higher Frequencies Feed-line loss becomes increasingly important on VHF, UHF, and microwave frequencies, where selecting the correct coaxial cable can significantly improve overall system performance. Applied to Chameleon Products For portable HF operation, moderate feed-line losses are often acceptable. For permanent installations and higher frequencies, Chameleon recommends using high-quality, low-loss 50-ohm coaxial cable whenever practical. Related Articles How Do You Choose the Right Coaxial Cable? What Is Coaxial Cable? What Is SWR? What Is Return Loss? Related Products CHA Premium Feed Lines
The exact result depends on the complete station: frequency, geometry, feed line, matching network, return-current path, environment, operating power, and the reference plane of any measurement. A low SWR establishes an impedance relationship at that point; it does not by itself prove efficiency, radiation pattern, compatibility, or safety.
What to Verify
- Use the newest official product guide or primary service documentation.
- Confirm the exact model, revision, components, configuration, and operating conditions.
- Begin tests at low power and change one variable at a time.
- Do not infer compatibility from connector or thread fit.
Learn Next
- Antenna Selection: A Mission-First Decision Guide
- Engineering Design Tradeoffs in Portable HF Antennas
- Antenna Measurement Reference Planes
- Understanding Common-Mode Current
Source note: Independently synthesized with reference to The ARRL Handbook for Radio Communications, 99th edition (2022), and The ARRL Antenna Book for Radio Communications, 24th edition (2019). Verify changing regulations, services, software, specifications, availability, and safety requirements against current primary sources.
