HF Portable Loop Antenna 2.0
(CHA P-LOOP 2.0)
Operator’s Manual
California - USA
WWW.CHAMELEONANTENNA.COM
VERSATILE – DEPENDABLE – STEALTH – BUILT TO LAST
CHA P-LOOP 2.0 Page 2
Table of Contents
Introduction .............................................................................................................................................. 3
HF Propagation ......................................................................................................................................... 4
Parts of the Antenna ................................................................................................................................. 5
Loop Assembly .......................................................................................................................................... 8
Loop Operation ....................................................................................................................................... 10
Disassembly............................................................................................................................................. 11
Troubleshooting ...................................................................................................................................... 11
Preventive Maintenance ......................................................................................................................... 11
Specifications .......................................................................................................................................... 11
Notes ....................................................................................................................................................... 12
Accessories .............................................................................................................................................. 12
Chameleon AntennaTM Products ............................................................................................................ 13
References .............................................................................................................................................. 14
WARNING! Never mount this, or any other antenna near power lines or utility wires! Any materials:
ladders, ropes, or feedlines that contact power lines can conduct voltages that kill. Never trust insulation to
protect you. Stay away from all power lines.
WARNING! Never operate this antenna where people could be subjected to high levels of RF exposure,
especially above 10 watts or above 14 MHz. Never use this antenna near RF sensitive medical devices, such as
pacemakers.
WARNING! A tuned loop can exhibit several hundred Volts and concentrated electromagnetic radiation
when operating at QRP power levels (5-10 W). At higher RF levels, several thousand volts will be present at
resonance! Exercise caution when using this antenna. Operate this antenna at your own risk.
All information on this product and the product itself is the property of and is proprietary to Chameleon
AntennaTM. Specifications are subject to change without prior notice.
CHA P-LOOP 2.0 Page 3
Introduction
Thank you for purchasing and using the Chameleon Antenna
TM
High Frequency (HF) Portable Loop Antenna 2.0
(CHA P-LOOP 2.0). This is an exciting new product from Chameleon Antenna
TM
and you are now part of the
magnetic loop HF antenna craze that is sweeping the amateur radio community. Easily deployable HF magnetic
loop antennas, also called small transmitting loops, have been routinely used for many years in military,
diplomatic, and shipboard HF communication links, where robust and reliable general coverage radio
communication is a necessity. These antennas have only recently become commercially available for amateur
radio. The real practical advantage of the small loop, compared to a short vertical whip tuned against earth or a full
sized vertical antenna, is the loop’s freedom from dependence on a ground plane and earth for achieving efficient
operation; this unique characteristic has profound significance for portable or restricted space antennas. In
comparison, the bottom of a vertically oriented loop does not need to be more than a loop diameter above
ground, making it very easy to install in a restricted space location. There is no significant improvement in sky wave
propagation performance when a small loop is installed high; all that matters is the loop is substantially clear of
objects in the immediate area and oriented towards the desired direction of radiation. The magnetic loop is
different than typical antennas because it emphasizes the magnetic part of the radio wave (H field) rather than the
electric part (E field) of the radio wave. It also has a high Q resonance of around 15 KHz on 40 meters, providing
immunity from interference outside the bandpass. The new CHA P-LOOP 2.0 is more rugged, lighter weight, and
more weather resistant than previous versions and using the included power compensator, can handle higher
power. We’re sure you will be amazed by the performance and agree that the CHA P-LOOP 2.0 is the most
advanced portable magnetic loop antenna available today.
Field trials of the CHA P-LOOP 2.0 demonstrated that
an inside magnetic loop antenna was only around
one to two S-units lower, on both transmit and
receive, than an outside full-size dipole antenna.
The CHA P-LOOP 2.0 was also compared to a popular
portable vertical antenna. Signal strengths were
about the same for both antennas, but the CHAPLOOP had much less man-made noise – a known
advantage of magnetic loop antennas. The CHA PLOOP 2.0 was also much faster and easier to setup
and use since it didn’t need a quarter wave
counterpoise wire or use finicky coil taps.
Remarkable for an antenna that is less than three
foot in diameter and covers 7.0 MHz to 30.0 MHz (40
– 10 meter ham bands)!
The CHA P-LOOP 2.0 Antenna was designed to be
rugged, portable, and versatile. It can be rapidly
setup and is ideal for hiking, camping, staying in a
hotel or apartment, preparing for emergencies or
disasters, and other activities and places where
erecting a full-size wire or vertical antenna is
impractical. The CHA P-LOOP 2.0 has several notable
quality design features. First, there is minimal body
induction while tuning the loop. The SWR will remain
stable while holding and tuning the loop.
Plate 1. CHA P-Loop 2.0 Antenna.
CHA P-LOOP 2.0 Page 4
The proprietary design of the coupling loop is rigid and does not have solder joints. It is skillfully machined and
everything is held mechanically with a standard 3/8-24 large nut. The rigid coupling loop maintains its
symmetry, thus ensuring the same easy and efficient tuning. It also remains in the same plane as the radiating
loop, which maximizes radio frequency radiation and performance.
The CHA P-LOOP 2.0, see plate (1), is comprised of a 33¾ inch diameter flexible radiator loop, a rigid coupling loop,
a telescoping mast with handle and tripod mount, a specially designed tuning unit, and coaxial feed line – all of
which fit in the supplied Olive colored classic military-style messenger bag.
The CHA P-LOOP 2.0 doesn’t require a ground-plane and doesn’t need to be mounted up high. Do not use an
antenna tuner or coupler, as it may cause you to mistune the antenna.
Antennas built by Chameleon Antenna
TM
are versatile, dependable, stealthy, and built to last.
Please read this operator’s manual so that you may maximize the utility you obtain from your CHA P-LOOP 2.0
antenna.
HF Propagation
HF radio provides relatively inexpensive and reliable local, regional, national, and international voice and data
communication capability. It is especially suitable for undeveloped areas where normal telecommunications are
not available, too costly or scarce, or where the commercial telecommunications infrastructure has been damaged
by a natural disaster or military conflict.
Although HF radio is a reasonably reliable method of communication, HF radio waves propagate through a
complex and constantly changing environment and are affected by weather, terrain, latitude, time of day, season,
and the 11-year solar cycle. A detailed explanation of the theory of HF radio wave propagation is beyond the
scope of this operator’s manual, but an understanding of the basic principles will help the operator decide what
frequency will support their communication requirements.
HF radio waves propagate from the transmitting antenna to the receiving antenna using two methods: ground
waves and sky waves.
Ground waves are composed of direct waves and surface waves. Direct waves travel directly from the transmitting
antenna to the receiving antenna when they are within the radio line-of-sight. Typically, this distance is 8 to 14
miles for field stations. Surface waves follow the curvature of the Earth beyond the radio horizon.
They are usable, during the day and under optimal conditions, up to around 90 miles, see table (1). Low power,
horizontal antenna polarization, rugged or urban terrain, dense foliage, or dry soil conditions can reduce the range
very significantly. The U.S. Army found that in the dense jungles of Vietnam, the range for ground waves was
sometimes less than one mile.
Frequency
Distance
Frequency
Distance
2 MHz
88 miles
14 MHz
33 miles
4 MHz
62 miles
18MHz
29 miles
7 MHz
47 miles
24 MHz
25 miles
10 MHz
39 miles
30 MHz
23 miles
Table 1. Maximum Surface Wave Range by Frequency.
CHA P-LOOP 2.0 Page 5
Sky waves are the primary method of HF radio wave propagation. HF radio waves on a frequency below the critical
frequency (found by an ionosonde) are reflected off one of the layers of the ionosphere and back to Earth between
300 and 2,500 miles, depending upon the frequency and ionospheric conditions. HF radio waves can then be
reflected from the Earth to the ionosphere again during multihop propagation for longer range communication.
The most important thing for the operator to understand about HF radio wave propagation is the concept of
Maximum Usable Frequency (MUF), Lowest Usable Frequency (LUF), and Optimal Working Frequency (OWF). The
MUF is the frequency for which successful communications between two points is predicted on 50% of the days of
in a month. The LUF is the frequency below which successful communications are lost due to ionospheric loses.
The OWF, which is somewhere between the LUF and around 80% of the MUF, is the range of frequencies which
can be used for reliable communication. If the LUF is above the MUF, HF sky wave propagation is unlikely to occur.
The HF part of the Radio Frequency (RF) spectrum is usually filled with communications activity and an
experienced operator can often determine where the MUF is, and with less certainty, the LUF by listening to where
activity ends. The operator can then pick a frequency in the OWF and attempt to establish contact. Another
method is using HF propagation prediction software, such as the Voice of America Coverage Analysis Program
(VOACAP), which is available at no cost to download or use online at www.voacap.com. The operator enters the
location of the two stations and the program show a wheel with the predicted percentage of success based on
frequency and time. ALE, which is the standard for interoperable HF communications, is an automated method of
finding a frequency in the OWF and establishing and maintaining a communications link.
Even under optimal conditions, there is a gap between where ground waves end (around 40 to 90 miles) and the
sky wave returns to Earth on the first hop (around 300 miles). NVIS propagation can be used to fill this gap. The
frequency selected must be below the critical frequency, so NVIS is can normally only be used on frequencies from
around 2 to 10 MHz. Frequencies of 2 – 4 MHz are typical at night and 4 – 8 MHz during the day.
A magnetic loop antenna radiates at all angles from horizon to zenith, making it an equally effective antenna for
both local and long-distance (DX) communication. While not specifically designed for NVIS, during field testing of
the CHA P-LOOP 2.0, several NVIS contacts were made on the 40 meter ham band during the day.
Parts of the Antenna
The CHA P-LOOP 2.0 is comprised of the following assemblies and components, see plates (2) through (4):
a. Tuning Unit
The Tuning Unit adjusts the resonant frequency of the CHA P-LOOP 2.0 antenna.
b. Flexible Radiator Loop
The Flexible Radiator Loop consists of a 33¾ inch diameter insulated flexible metal loop with UHF Plugs (PL-
259) at both ends.
c. Coupling Loop
The Coupling Loop is a small aluminum loop attached to the end of the Telescoping Mast (d).
d. Telescoping Mast
The Telescoping Mast connects the Tuning Unit (a) to the Coupling Loop (c).
CHA P-LOOP 2.0 Page 6
e. Telescoping Mast Clamps
The three Telescoping Mast Clamps are located along the Telescoping Mast (d) and are used to adjust its
length.
Plate 2. Portable Loop Antenna Assemblies and Components.
f. Flexible Radiator Loop Connections
The Flexible Radiator Loop Connections are UHF sockets (SO-239) located on the right and left sides of the
Tuning Unit (a).
g. Coaxial Cable Assembly
The Coaxial Cable Assembly (not shown) is a 12 foot length of coaxial cable, with an RF isolator at the antenna
end, used to connect the CHA P-LOOP 2.0 Antenna to your radio set.
h. Tuning Knob
The Tuning Knob is located on the bottom of the Tuning Unit (a) and is used to adjust the resonant frequency
of the loop. The tuning capacitor, which rotates approximately 2 ¾ revolutions, is turned right, or counter-
CHA P-LOOP 2.0 Page 7
clockwise, when above and facing the Tuning Unit (in the normal operating position), to increase the resonant
frequency of the antenna and left, or clockwise, to decrease the resonant frequency of the antenna , see Plate
(6).
i. Coaxial Cable Connection
The Coaxial Cable Connection is a UHF socket located at the base of the Coupling Loop (c) and is used to
connect the Coaxial Cable (g) to the radio.
j. Mast Handle
The Mast Handle is at the bottom of the Telescoping Mast (d). It can be used to hold the CHA P-LOOP 2.0 in
your hand for true man-portable operation.
Plate 3. Tuning Box and Telescoping Mast Assemblies.
k. Tripod Connection
The Tripod Connection is at the base of the Mast Handle (j). It is used to mount the CHA P-LOOP 2.0 to the
Tripod (q) or similar camera tripod or other antenna mount (not included) with a ¼” x 20 thread standard
camera tripod screw.
CHA P-LOOP 2.0 Page 8
l. Picatinny Rail
The Picatinny Rail is located on the rear of the Tuning Box (a). It mates with the Picatinny Rail Clamp attached
to the Telescoping Mast (d).
m. Coupling Loop Strap
The Coupling Loop Strap is a sticky strap used to fasten the top of the Coupling Loop (c) to the Radiator Loop
(b).
n. Coupling Loop Attachment
The Coupling Loop Attachment is used to attach the Coupling Loop (c) to the top of the Telescoping Mast (d).
o. Coupling Loop Adjustment
The Coupling Loop Adjustment is used to tighten the Coupling Loop Attachment (n).
p. Portable Bag
The Portable Bag, see plate (1), is an Olive colored classic military-style messenger bag used to store and
transport the components of the CHA P-LOOP 2.0, making it easily transportable.
q. Tripod
The supplied Tripod (not shown) will provide good support for the antenna under normal conditions on
improved surfaces, such as a: deck, patio, balcony, sidewalk, driveway, etc. If used in rough field conditions,
the Tripod must be secured to prevent the antenna from tipping over or a larger heady-duty camera tripod
used.
r. Power Compensator
The Power Compensator attaches to Flexible Radiator Loop Connection (f) on the left side of the Tuning Unit
(a). It is used to increase the power handling capability of the CHA P-Loop 2.0. Prolonged transmission with
an SWR above 2.0:1 can permanently damage the Power Compensator. Dropping or rough handling the
Power Compensator can permanently damage it, which is not covered by the warranty.
s. Clamp Nut
The Clamp Nut is located on the Picatinny Rail (i) clamp, which is attached to the Telescoping Mast (d).
Loop Assembly
The CHA P-LOOP 2.0 antenna is easy to assemble. The antenna should be located near the radio set and can be
installed either indoors or outside. The CHA P-LOOP 2.0 is weather resistant to dripping water when mounted near
vertically. Because the magnetic component of an electromagnetic wave is maximum at the boundary between
the ground and the space above, loop performance is usually best when the loop is located near the ground at a
distance outside of the loop’s close-in induction field (just a loop diameter or two). Do not use an antenna tuner
or coupler with this antenna, as it may cause you to mistune the antenna.
CHA P-LOOP 2.0 Page 9
Perform the following steps to assemble the Portable Loop Antenna, see plates (2) through (4).
1. Select a location to setup the CHA P-LOOP 2.0 antenna. The location can be indoors or outside, but should
facilitate accessibility by the operator to the Tuning Knob (h). The operator needs to be able to adjust the
Tuning Knob while listening to the receiver, activating the transmitter, and observing the SWR meter. If used
indoors, the location should also be reasonably away from switching power supplies, Internet routers, and
other sources of electrical and electronic interference.
2. Remove the CHA P-LOOP 2.0 components from
the Portable Bag (p).
3. Attach the Telescoping Mast (d) to the Tuning
Unit (a) by connecting the two parts of the
Picatinny Rail (i) together as shown in the inset
on Plate (3). Tighten the Clamp Nut (s) snuggly.
4. Extend the lower section of the Telescoping
Mast (d) by loosening the bottom Telescoping
Mast Clamp (e) and pulling the bottom tube
until it is fully extended. Re-tighten the
Telescoping Mast Clamp.
5. Similarly, extend the middle section of the
Telescoping Mast until it is around an inch from
being fully extended. The Telescoping Mast
should be approximately 25 inches in length
from the bottom Telescoping Mast Clamp to the
Coupling Loop Attachment (n).
6. Attach the Coupling Loop (c) to the front top of
the Coupling Loop Attachment by positioning
the threaded hole in the metal bar at the base
of the Coupling Loop over the screw on top of
the Coupling Loop Attachment and turning the
knob under the attachment clockwise until
finger tight.
7. Connect one end of the Flexible Radiator Loop
(b) to the right Radiator Loop Connection (f).
8. If installing the Power Compensator (r), place
the bracket of the Power Compensator over the
left Radiator Loop and position the canister as
shown in Plate (4).
9. Connect the other end of the Flexible Radiator
Loop to the left Radiator Loop Connection.
10. Secure the top middle of the Flexible Radiator
Loop to the top middle of the Coupling Loop
with the attached Coupling Loop Strap (m).
Plate 4. Power Compensator.
11. Shape the Flexible Radiator into a circle and
align the Coupling Loop with the plane of the
Flexible Radiator Loop. Tighten Coupling Loop
Adjustment (o) knob.
12. Connect the Coaxial Cable Assembly (g) to the
Coaxial Cable Connection (i) at the bottom of
the Coupling Loop.
13. Secure the Coaxial Cable Assembly to the
Telescoping Mast using the attached sticky
straps.
14. Mount the Tripod Connection (k) to the Tripod
(q) or hold the antenna using the Mast Handle
(j).
15. Connect the unconnected end of the Coaxial
Cable Assembly to the radio set.
16. Perform an operational test (see procedure
below).
17. This completes assembly of the Portable Loop
Antenna.
CHA P-LOOP 2.0 Page 10
Loop Operation
The CHA P-LOOP 2.0 is easy to use. Perform the following steps whenever you change frequency more than half
the bandwidth listed in Table (1) on the band for which you are operating. For example, on 20 meters, you should
retune if you change frequency greater than 20 KHz.
1. The CHA P-LOOP 2.0 is bidirectional favoring the sides, see plate (5). If possible, point one side toward the
target signal and rotate the antenna for maximum signal strength.
Plate 5. Magnetic Loop Antenna
Directivity.
2. Adjust the Tuning Knob (h) for maximum
receive signal strength. Turn the Tuning
Knob right or clockwise to increase (+) the
resonant frequency and left or
counterclockwise to decrease (-) the
resonant frequency, see Plate (6). You will
know when you are close to resonant
frequency because you will start hearing
signals and a marked increase in receiver
background noise. The Tuning Knob uses a
6:1 reduction drive which allows for fine
adjustment and will rotate approximately
2¾ revolutions from lowest to highest
frequency. Do not attempt to force the
Tuning Knob past the stops.
3. Ensure your transmitter is set to output no
more than 5 Watts during tuning.
4. Transmit a carrier and slowly turn the
Tuning Knob slightly counterclockwise and
then clockwise, around the position of
highest receive signal found in step 2, to
obtain the lowest SWR. An SWR of less
than 2:1 is satisfactory. The bandwidth of
the loop on 40 meters is only 15 KHz, so
once you are close to resonance make only
the slightest Tuning Knob adjustments.
Due to the superior design of the CHA PLOOP 2.0, there is minimal body induction
while tuning the loop. The SWR should
remain stable while tuning with your hand
and operating while holding the antenna.
Plate 6. Tuning Knob Operation.
5. Increase transmitter power to no more than
the specified limit for your mode and duty
cycle (see specifications). Note: If unsure,
you are always safe using 10W without the
Power Compensator, and 20W when using
the Power Compensator.
CHA P-LOOP 2.0 Page 11
Disassembly
1. Disconnect Coaxial Cable Assembly (g), neatly coil cable, and secure with attached sticky straps.
2. Disconnect Flexible Radiator Loop (b), carefully coil loop, and secure with attached sticky straps.
3. Fully collapse Telescoping Mast (d).
4. Remove Coupling Loop (c) from the Telescoping Mast by loosening the Coupling Loop Attachment knob (n).
5. Remove the Telescoping Mast from the Tuning Unit (a) by loosening the Clamp Nut (s) on the Picatinny Rail (i).
6. Clean and inspect antenna components and then place them into the Portable Bag (p).
7. The antenna is now ready for transport and storage.
Troubleshooting
1. Ensure the loop is away from metal surfaces. Sometimes simply reorienting, relocating, or elevating the loop
around two to four feet higher will reduce the SWR.
2. Ensure Radiator Loop Connections (f) are securely tightened.
3. Inspect Flexible Radiator Loop (b) for damage. Replace if damaged.
4. Ensure the Coaxial Cable Connection (g) is securely tightened.
5. Inspect Coaxial Cable assembly for cuts in insulation or exposed shielding. Replace if damaged.
6. Turn Tuning Knob (h) fully clockwise.
7. Adjust Tuning Knob over entire range listening for a marked increase in received signal strength and receiver
background noise.
8. If still not operational, replace Coaxial Cable assembly. Most problems with antenna systems are caused by
the coaxial cables and connectors.
9. If still not operational, contact us for technical support.
Preventive Maintenance
Like all of our products, the CHA P-LOOP 2.0 is built to be rugged, long lasting and with details in mind. The
craftsmanship of the system is unique to Chameleon AntennaTM. The materials used in this antenna are water and
rust resistant and do not require preventive maintenance, but they should be inspected for damage and cleaned
with mild household cleaners after field use.
Specifications
• Frequency: 7.0 – 30.0 MHz continuous (40 through 10 meter ham bands)
• Power:
o Standard: 25W intermittent duty cycle (SSB telephony and SSB-based digital), 10W continuous
duty cycle (CW, AM, FM, RTTY)
o Power Compensator: 60W intermittent duty cycle (SSB telephony), 25W continuous duty cycle
(CW, AM, FM, RTTY, and SSB-based digital)
• Dimensions:
o Width: 33¾ Inches
o Height: 42 Inches
o Depth: 5½ Inches
• Weight: 3 lbs (Tuning Unit, Flexible Radiator Loop, Coupling Loop, and Telescoping Mast only)
• SWR: Operator tunable, typically not greater than 1.5:1 at resonance and less than 2:1 for 15 KHz
bandwidth at 7 MHz, see Table (1)
• RF Connection: UHF Plug (PL-259)
CHA P-LOOP 2.0 Page 12
• Feed Line: 12 Feet of RG-58 with Integrated RFI Choke
• Personnel Requirements and Setup Time: one operator, around 2 minutes
• Ingress Protection comparable to IP42 standard (not tested). Ingress protection from most wires, screws
or similar objects and from vertically dripping water when device is tilted at an angle up to 15 degrees
• Carrying Bag:
o Style: Classic Military Messenger Bag
o Color: Olive Drab
o Material: 100% Cotton Canvas / 100% Polyester lining
o Dimensions: 19 Inches Width x 14.5 Inches Height x 7 Inches Depth
o Source: Imported
BAND
2:1 SWR BANDWIDTH (KHZ)
40
15
30
25
20
40
17
60
15
80
12
150
10
180
Table 1. 2:1 SWR Bandwidth.
Notes
1. Do not use an antenna tuner or coupler with this antenna.
2. Do not use this antenna below 6.7 MHz or above 30.0 MHz.
3. This antenna cannot be used with the CHA F-LOOP 80m Conversion Kit.
4. This antenna is only water resistant when mounted near vertically. Do not mount this antenna horizontally
during inclement weather.
6. When using the Power Compensator, exceeding the specified power limits or operating with a high SWR
will permanently damage the internal components of the Power Compensator. This damage is not covered by
the warranty.
7. Dropping or rough handling the Power Compensator will permanently damage the internal components.
This damage is not covered by the warranty.
Accessories
The following accessories are available for purchase from Chameleon AntennaTM. Please contact us at
support@chameleonantenna.com for current prices and availability.
• Coaxial Cable Assembly. 50 feet of RG-58 with integrated RFI Choke. Used to connect the CHA P-LOOP
2.0 to the radio set.
Recommended non-supplied accessories:
• SWR / power meter
CHA P-LOOP 2.0 Page 13
Chameleon AntennaTM Products
The following products are available for purchase at Chameleon AntennaTM.
Go to http://chameleonantenna.com for ordering and more information.
CHA FT-817 BRACKETS 2.0 – CHA FT-817 Brackets
are built exclusively by the skilled machinists of
Chameleon AntennaTM. It is a military-style pair of
precision fabricated brackets and high quality
carrying strap for the popular Yaesu FT-817 series
portable QRP transceiver. The CHA FT-817 Brackets
will ruggedize and help protect your FT-817 from the
many hazards of field operations.
CHA SKYLOOP - The CHA SKYLOOP is a 250' full wave
loop antenna cut for 80M. With the help of an
antenna tuner, the CHA SKYLOOP will cover all the
bands between 80M and 6M.
CHA EMCOMM II - The CHA EMCOMM II Antenna
has been specially designed for backup emergency
HF system or permanent installation. The integral
broadband impedance matching network allows
broadband antenna tuning.
CHA WINDOM 40 – The CHA WINDOM 40 Antenna is
designed for 40, 20, and 10 meters. Amateur Bands
from 60 through 10 meters can be operated using an
antenna tuner. Built with the portable operator in
mind, it is very light weight, easy to set up, and
comes with a military-style pouch.
CHA HYBRID Vehicular Base - The CHA HYBRID
Vehicular Base is designed to enhance the
capabilities of the common HF radio application by
allowing faster tuning operation across the HF bands
including MARS/CAP frequencies. This antenna base
has an integral broadband impedance matching
network allowing broadband antenna tuning. The
CHA HYBRID can be used mobile with the CHA V1L
and V2L mobile antennas or stationary with the
provided 30' wire.
CHA V1 Mobile Antenna - The CHA V1 antenna is
our first and classic broadband HF mobile antenna
that we designed. It has been updated from
fiberglass to 7075 alloy and stainless steel.
CHA V1L Mobile Antenna - The CHA V1L antenna is a
rugged multiband HF mobile antenna that can be
erected in a minimum of time and space.
CHA V2L Mobile Antenna - The CHA V2L is a rugged
multiband HF antenna designed for smaller vehicles.
CHA VHF/UHF Magnetic Mount Mobile Antenna The CHA VHF/UHF is a simple but great dual band
antenna for 2M and 70CM.
CHA Hybrid Mini – Portable HF Antenna Base - The
CHA HYBRID-MINI Base is the portable version of the
regular HYBRID. The unit can be differentiated by the
color of the lid and the base connector, which is
black instead of gray. The HYBRID-MINI is also
smaller and about 50% lighter than the regular
HYBRID. An external antenna tuner is required to
provide a low VSWR. The connector provided with
the antenna is a SO-239 sealed. The entire unit is
also waterproof. The HYBRID-MINI will serve as
impedance transformer matching network
(transformer 5:1) and will greatly reduce the VSWR
at the load for the following antennas: V1, V1L, V2L
and MIL.
CHA Hybrid Micro - Portable HF Antenna Base -
The CHA HYBRID-MICRO is a lightweight highly
portable broadband antenna system designed to
offer maximum portability and performance. The
antenna weights about 1 lb. The antenna will
operate at all frequencies in the 1.8-54 MHz band
without any adjustment with most modern external
antenna tuners. No masts or guying are required.
The antenna will work successfully supported by
trees, masts, the tops of vehicles or any convenient
object or structure. The antenna works most
effectively when elevated at a reasonable height.
CHA MIL Whip - The CHA MIL whip is a broadband
(28 to 54 MHz) monopole antenna designed for
portable or man-pack radios requiring compact but
CHA P-LOOP 2.0 Page 14
rugged antenna systems. Its design has been
borrowed from similar antennas utilized by many
armies all over the world. The CHA MIL is very hardy,
sturdy and portable (being collapsible). Un-mounted
the entire antenna length is less than 29”. The 5
aluminum sections are hold together by a piece of
1/8th inch US GI MIL SPEC shock cord. The CHA MIL
Whip and a CHA HYBRID-MINI Base perfectly
complements the capability of the CHA P-LOOP 2.0.
CHA MIL EXT Whip Extension - The CHA MIL EXT
whip has been designed to offer maximum
portability and performance for those already using
the portable CHA MIL whip for man-pack antenna
system. This collapsible antenna extension needs to
be used with the CHA MIL to create a 17’4” long
portable antenna. When combined with any HYBRID
series antenna bases the CHA MIL EXT will operate at
all frequencies in the 1.8-54 MHz band without any
adjustment with most modern external antenna
tuners.
CHA TD Tactical Dipole LITE - The CHA TD LITE
(Tactical Dipole LITE) is a HF broadband antenna
specially designed for portable HF communication
where rapid deployment and simplicity of operation
is essential but compactness is primary. The antenna
will operate at all frequencies in the 1.8-54 MHz
band without any adjustment with most modern
external antenna tuners. No masts or guying are
required.
CHA TD Tactical Dipole - The CHA TD is a complete
multi-configurable HF broadband antenna system
specially designed for portable HF communication
where rapid deployment and simplicity of operation
is essential. The antenna will operate at all
frequencies in the 1.8-30 MHz band without any
adjustment with most modern internal antenna
tuners. It is ideal for use in conjunction with modern,
digitally configured, HF communication transceivers
where features such as ALE and frequency hopping
require true broadband capability. No masts or
guying are required. The CHA TD can also be used
without antenna tuner, as the SWR will stay under
2.5:1 between 10M and 80M and under 2.75:1 on
160M.
References
1. Silver, H. Ward (editor), 2013, 2014 ARRL Handbook for Radio Communications, 91
st
Edition, American Radio
Relay League, Newington, CT.
2. 1987, Tactical Single-Channel Radio Communications Techniques (FM 24-18), Department of the Army,
Washington, DC.
3. Turkes, Gurkan, 1990, Tactical HF Field Expedient Antenna Performance Volume I Thesis, U.S. Naval Post
Graduate School, Monterey, CA.
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