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Chameleon Knowledge Base · The Complete Online HF Antenna Handbook

Why Does My Computer Reset When I Transmit?

Learn why a computer may reset during amateur radio transmission and how to eliminate RF interference affecting computer equipment.

Troubleshooting RFI & EMC Reviewed 2026-07-14
Short Answer: Learn why a computer may reset during amateur radio transmission and how to eliminate RF interference affecting computer equipment.

Explanation

Overview If your computer reboots, freezes, disconnects USB devices, or behaves unpredictably when transmitting, the most common cause is unwanted radio frequency (RF) energy coupling into the computer or its connected cables. This problem is usually caused by common-mode current or insufficient electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) rather than a defective computer. Common Symptoms Computer unexpectedly reboots. USB devices disconnect. Keyboard or mouse stops responding. Digital mode software crashes. Network connections are interrupted. Possible Causes Common-mode current on the feed line. RF coupling into USB or network cables. Poor station grounding or bonding. Antenna located too close to the operating position. Inadequate cable shielding. Troubleshooting Steps Install a common-mode choke at the antenna feed point. Add ferrite chokes to USB, microphone, and power cables. Inspect feed-line routing. Improve grounding and electrical bonding. Increase separation between the antenna and station equipment when practical. Applied to Chameleon Products When Chameleon antennas are installed using recommended feed-line routing, proper grounding, and appropriate common-mode suppression, RF-

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.