Review:Solarcon I-MAX 2000 CB/Ham Radio Base Station Antenna

It is quite a pain when the handheld devices that you are using have a weak signal or the transmission breaks down. If you are a regular user of these devices it can really be a nuisance. There is, however, one possible solution to this problem and that is to invest in Solarcon I-MAX 2000 which is a great antenna and can be used to enhance as well as to extend the range of the transmissions for your handheld devices. I am quite an avid user of handheld devices and would always find the signal breaking off until I finally discovered this antenna, and, since then, I have enjoyed uninterrupted and wide range transmissions on my handheld radio. This has prompted me to write Solarcon I-MAX 2000 Product Review so that it can help other people who are in the same boat and facing similar issues.

Solarcon I-MAX 2000 CB/Ham Radio Base Station Vertical Antenna

This Solarcon I-MAX 2000 Product Review will focus on the uses, features and the pros and the cons of this antenna along with all of the relevant information I found while I was researching whether to invest in this antenna or not.

Why is it named Solarcon I-MAX 2000?

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This antenna is named the I-MAX 2000 because of the performance values. “I” stands for the “current” and “MAX” stands for “maximum” and the rating is of 2,000 watts. This means that its wavelength and the coil design loading would radiate up to a maximum amount of RF 2,000 watts. Moreover, it has a rated gain of 0.8dB/d or 3dB/i. This might seem low, but some other measurements in real time have shown about 5.5dB gain dipole.

 

About Solarcon

Solarcon is the company that has manufactured this antenna, which is made in Holland, OH in the USA. The latest model, however, is produced by a firm called the DAS distributors (as the Solarcon brand name was sold off to DAS distributors in the year 2005) These are still manufactured in the same building as their predecessors since they originated. Solarcon is a well-known brand name that is famous for their great quality antennas and their durability and reliable, long-lasting products. Their products are sold all over the world and as one of the best selling antennas.

Great length of the antenna

The total length of the antenna is about 24 inches and 271.75 inches for the radiating element. The greatest benefit of having a 5/8 antenna are the features that give you an idea of the real working length that includes the diameter of the coil system as well as the wire. Another benefit of having an antenna of 5/8 rather than 1/2 wave antenna is the angle of radiation. There is a smaller amount of radiation in the 5/8 antennas and they are pointed more towards the signal of the horizon, and less of the signal points towards the sky. This makes these antennas the ideal choice for DX.

Simple and easy assembly process

The process of assembling the antenna is quite simple and easy. All you are required to do is to screw three sections together and then tighten them. It is fairly safe and simple even when you are handling the fiberglass antenna, since there will be no issues with a brand new fiberglass antena. However, with wear and tear over time, a decade or older fiberglass antenna may give you painful experiences while handling it. The assembly process does not take too much time and you can get finished in less than twenty minutes. Moreover, there is also a certificate of compliance for insulation safety with a factor of 14,500 volts.

Performance

This antenna gives a great performance and as compared to the previous antenna I have used, the signal I was able to receive being 0.5 to 1 S units greater on the transmission. Through this antenna, the local stations were also being transmitted, including some that my other antenna could not catch. The topmost section of the antenna generally wobbles around in strong winds and so it should not be very surprised to find it bent in(at)  different angles.

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  • This antenna works great on ground waves
  • Great quality of antenna and the aerial which is long lasting
  • It works great with a tuner
  • It is fairly quiet
  • Performs great on 10, 11,12 as well as on 15 meters
  • The process of installation and the operation is quite easy
  • Able to transmit a great variety of signals

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  • It does not perform well in uncertain weather conditions like the rain
  • Some of the customers reported that they received the antenna in faulty conditions.

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Key features

  • Solarcon I-MAX 2000 is able to handle 5,000 watts easily
  • It has a full 5/w Wave antenna
  • It operates quite effectively on 6 to 20 bands along with a tuner and even 10/11m without using a tuner
  • Solarcon I-MAX 2000 is quite lightweight, weighing only 6 pounds
  • It is 24 inches tall
  • The wind ratings are 100 MPH
  • It is lightning protected and there is no need for a static discharge unit

Customer Reviews

Most of the customers who have used this antenna were quite satisfied with its performance and considered it as a great product and recommended it to others. Most of the users commented that they were able to catch a lot more in transmission signals than they ever could with their previous antennas. Many other users praised the antenna for being a simple and straightforward product that was easy to install and use. Moreover, many other customers praised it for being good quality and value for money.

Final Verdict

This is a great performing antenna that is ideal to be used for most of the handheld devices. Solarcon I-MAX 2000 antena is very useful and user-friendly and is able to perform well, it comes to receiving transmission and providing static free and noise free communication. There might be other great antennas in the market, but this Solarcon I-Max 2000 product review is able to conclude that this antenna takes the lead when it comes to great performing antennas with affordability and simplicity.