In plain language: Coax becomes an unintended antenna conductor when RF flows on the outside of its shield, changing tuning, pattern, noise pickup, and RF exposure.
Why this matters in a Chameleon system
The symptom may be cable-sensitive SWR, a hot microphone, a reset computer, or touch-sensitive receive noise. The cause is the complete current path—not the word coax.
Build or diagnose it this way
- Restore the intended counterpoise or radials.
- Confirm choke placement.
- Route coax away from radiator and return conductors.
- Compare at low power before and after one change.
Wrong turns to avoid
- Adding random ground wires.
- Using low SWR as proof of zero exterior current.
- Hiding the symptom with a tuner.
Source boundary
ARRL common-mode practice and Chameleon feed-system guidance. Product revisions can change supplied parts and limits; the current product guide controls.
