Palomar Engineers MC-1-5000

Without a proper feed-point choke, your **coax braid becomes part of the antenna**. On transmit, that means unwanted current on the outside of the shield (RF in the shack, pattern distortion). On receive, it **drags noise** back to the radio. MAXI-CHOKER™ presents a **very high choking impedance** on the braid where it matters—**right at the antenna**—and doubles as a **line isolator** anywhere along the run.

• Stops braid currents at the antenna feed point → cleaner TX pattern, less RF in shack
• Cuts received hash coupled onto the feed line
• Stabilizes multi-antenna stations and reduces interaction

• Primary: **Right below the antenna feed point** (unbalanced coax feed). That’s the best place to choke common-mode on TX/RX. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
• Also useful: as a **line isolator** anywhere along the feed to block induced currents from nearby RF fields. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
• Ground/static-bleeder versions: at the **antenna base**, orient the **ground-lug end toward the antenna** so static/RFI is bled off immediately; at the **radio end**, orient the ground-lug toward the **radio**. Bond with low-impedance conductor. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

• MC-1-1500: up to 1.5 kW PEP (HF 1–61 MHz)
• MC-1-3000: up to 3 kW PEP (HF 1–61 MHz)
• MC-1-5000: up to 5 kW PEP (HF 1–61 MHz)
• Options: “GB/BG” models add **ground/static bleeder**; same RF performance. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
• Need VHF: see **MC-1-2000VHF** (excellent ~15–144 MHz). :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
• Ladder-line/balanced feed: see **MC-1-1500LL** (balanced stud outputs). :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}

• RF “tingles” at mic or tuner, touchy USB/audio lines
• SWR changes when you touch the coax or move it
• Pattern weirdness (e.g., unexpected noise pickup direction)

If any ring true, put MAXI-CHOKER™ at the feed point and add a **CMNF** at the radio end for a one-two punch.