Chameleon Antenna CHA TD 2.0 Operator's Manual

Terminated Dipole 2.0

(CHA TD 2.0)

Operator’s Manual

Nevada - USA

WWW.CHAMELEONANTENNA.COM

VERSATILE – DEPENDABLE – STEALTH – BUILT TO LAST

CHA TD 2.0 Page 2

Table of Contents

Introduction .............................................................................................................................................. 3

HF Propagation ......................................................................................................................................... 3

Parts of the Antenna ................................................................................................................................. 4

Antenna Configurations ............................................................................................................................ 7

Terminated Horizontal Dipole ............................................................................................................... 8

Terminated Inverted “V” ....................................................................................................................... 9

Terminated “M” .................................................................................................................................. 11

Terminated Sloping Wire .................................................................................................................... 12

Recovery Procedure ................................................................................................................................ 14

Troubleshooting ...................................................................................................................................... 14

Accessories .............................................................................................................................................. 14

Specifications .......................................................................................................................................... 15

Chameleon AntennaTM Products ............................................................................................................ 18

References .............................................................................................................................................. 19

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.

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 TD 2.0 Page 3

Introduction

Thank you for purchasing and using the Chameleon Antenna

TM

Terminated Dipole 2.0 (CHA TD 2.0) antenna. The
CHA TD 2.0 is a broadband High Frequency (HF) antenna specially designed for short to long range portable and man­pack HF communications. The CHA TD 2.0 is ideal for military, government agencies, non-governmental
organizations (NGOs), Military Affiliate Radio System (MARS), Civil Air Patrol (CAP), Amateur Radio Emergency
Service (ARES) / Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service (RACES), Salvation Army Team Emergency Radio Network
(SATERN), and amateur radio operators (hams) involved in field communication and disaster preparedness. The CHA
TD 2.0 is configurable to facilitate Near-Vertical Incident Sky wave (NVIS) communication and its broadband design
supports Automatic Link Establishment (ALE), frequency-hopping, and spread-spectrum modes without a tuner or
coupler. The CHA TD 2.0 can be deployed by the operator in the field in less than 15 minutes, using almost any
available support, with no masts or guying required.

The CHA TD 2.0, see plate (1), is comprised of a
matching transformer, two 60 foot antenna wires,
two terminating resistors, two 25 foot tail wires, and
a 50 foot length of paracord - all on three line winders.
The entire antenna fits in the supplied Coyote-Brown
military-style field pouch and makes a highly portable
and effective HF antenna system.

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 TD 2.0.

Plate (1). CHA TD 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 and
which of the CHA TD 2.0’s configurations 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).

CHA TD 2.0 Page 4

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.

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.

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.

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.

Parts of the Antenna

The CHA TD 2.0 is comprised of the following components:

a. Matching Transformer

The Matching Transformer, see plate (2), provides impedance matching for the CHA TD 2.0. It is permanently
affixed to the Center Line Winder (b).

b. Center Line Winder

CHA TD 2.0 Page 5

The Center Line Winder is used to store the Paracord (n) and enables rapid deployment and recovery of the
CHA TD 2.0. The Matching Transformer (a) is permanently affixed to the Center Line Winder. The Center Line
Winder is also used as the center or end support for the erected antenna.

Plate 2. Center Line Winder.

c. Antenna Connection

The Antenna Connection is the red colored wing nut on the side of the Matching Transformer (a). It is used to
connect the Antenna Wire (h) to the Matching Transformer.

d. Counterpoise Connection

The Counterpoise Connection is the other wing nut on the side of the Matching Transformer (a) that is not
colored red. It is used to connect the other Antenna Wire (h) or a Counterpoise Wire (q) to the Matching
Transformer.

e. UHF Socket

The UHF Socket, SO-239, is located on the bottom of the Matching Transformer (a).

f. Suspension Attachment Point

The Suspension Attachment Point is a hole in the top of the Center Line Winder (b) used to allow attachment
of Paracord (n) for suspension of the erected antenna.

g. End Line Winder

The End Line Winders, see plate (3), are used to store the Antenna Wires (h) and Tail Wires (i) and enable
rapid deployment and recovery of the CHA TD 2.0. The Terminating Resistors (m), Antenna Wires (h), and Tail
Wires (i) are all permanently attached to the End Line Winders. The End Line Winders are also used as the end
supports for the erected antenna.

h. Antenna Wire

The Antenna Wires consist of two 60 foot lengths of black insulated wire, wrapped around the End Line
Winders (g).

CHA TD 2.0 Page 6

Plate 3. End Line Winder.

i. Tail Wire

The Tail Wires are two 25 foot lengths of black insulated wire, wrapped around Line Winders (g).

j. Isolation loop

An Isolation loop is permanently attached to one end of the Tail Wires (i). They are used to attach Paracord
(n) for suspension of the erected antenna.

k. Wire Connector

The Wire Connectors are used to connect the Antenna Wires (h) to the Matching Transformer (a).

l. Carabiner

The Carabiners (not pictured) are used to attach Paracord (n) to the Isolation Loops (j) at Wire Connector (k)
ends of the Antenna Wire (h).

m. Termination Resistor

The Termination Resistors are non-inductive resistors. They enable the CHA TD 2.0 to be broad-banded
without use of a tuner or coupler.

n. Paracord, 550

Paracord (not pictured) is used to suspend components of the CHA TD 2.0 at the proper height or anchor them
to the ground, depending upon the antenna configuration. Additional 50 foot length of Paracord on a Line

Winder are available for purchase from Chameleon AntennaTM. At least one additional assembly is highly
recommended for deployment of some antenna configurations.

CHA TD 2.0 Page 7

o. Field Pouch

The Field Pouch, see plate (1), is used to store the components of the CHA TD 2.0, enabling rapid deployment
and recovery, and making the antenna portable and man-packable.

p. Coaxial Cable Assembly

The Coaxial Cable Assembly (not pictured, not supplied) connects to the UHF Socket (e) at one end and the Radio
Set at the other. A 50 foot coaxial cable assembly, with an integrated RF choke, is available purchase from
Chameleon AntennaTM.

q. Counterpoise Wire

The Counterpoise Wire (not pictured, not supplied) is used in end-fed configurations of the CHA TD 2.0. A
Counterpoise Kit, which contains four 25 foot wire radials secured around Line Winders and four steel Tent Stakes
is available from Chameleon AntennaTM.

r. Thumb Hole

The Thumb Hole is located on top of the End Line Winder (g). It is used to enable attachment of Paracord (n) to
the End Line Winder.

Antenna Configurations

Using the supplied components, the CHA TD 2.0 can be deployed into a number of configurations. Four
configurations are described in this manual, each with unique performance characteristics. Table (2) shows the
antenna configurations described in this manual. The table can assist the operator to quickly select the most
appropriate antenna configuration to meet their operational requirements.

Configuration

Ground

Short

Medium

Long

Directionality

Deployment

Terminated Horizontal Dipole

↓ ↕

Bidirectional

Deliberate

Terminated Inverted “V”

↕ ↕

Bidirectional

Hasty

Terminated “M”

↓ ↑

Bidirectional

Deliberate

Terminated Sloping Wire

↕ ↕

↑

Increases with Frequency

Hasty

Table 2. Antenna Configuration Selection.

To use the table, decide which distance column (Ground = 0 to 90 miles, Short = 0 - 300 miles, Medium = 300 – 1500
miles, Long > 1500 miles) best matches the distance to the station with whom you need to communicate. Then,
determine if the OWF is in the lower (↓ = 1.8 – 10 MHz) or upper (↑ = 10 – 30 MHz) frequency range. Finally, select
the CHA TD 2.0 configuration with the corresponding symbol in the appropriate distance column. All CHA TD 2.0
configurations provide some capability in each distance category, so depending upon the complexity of your
communications network, you may need to select the best overall configuration. The directionality column indicates
the directionality characteristic of the antenna configuration. When using NVIS, all the configurations are
omnidirectional. “Hasty” and “Deliberate” in the deployment column indicate the relative complexity of site
selection and setup for each antenna configuration.

CHA TD 2.0 Page 8

Terminated Horizontal Dipole

The CHA TD 2.0 Terminated Horizontal Dipole configuration, see figure (1), is broadband short to medium range HF
antenna. The Horizontal Dipole is the standard for wire HF antennas and will provide good sky wave (including NVIS)
propagation. Terminating the Horizontal Dipole makes the antenna broad-banded. The Horizontal Dipole requires
at least two supports (one at each end). A center support is also recommended. The CHA TD 2.0 Terminated
Horizontal Dipole should be mounted at a height of around 25 to 40 feet for good overall results. When mounted at
this height, the antenna is omnidirectional at lower frequencies. At higher frequencies the pattern is predominately
bidirectional broadside to the antenna.

Figure 1. Terminated Horizontal Dipole Configuration.

Site Selection and Preparation.

1. Select a site to deploy the CHA TD 2.0 Terminated

Dipole configuration, see figure (1). The best site
should have three trees or other supports that
would enable the Center Line Winder and End
Line Winders to be raised to a height of around
25 to 40 feet. The supports do not need to be in
a perfectly straight line. If tall supports are
unavailable, any convenient object, such as fence
posts or the tops of a vehicles, may be used as
field expedient supports with reduced
performance.

2. Remove the Center Line Winder (b) and End Line

Winders (g) from the Field Pouch (o).

3. Using a Bowline or similar knot, tie one end of a

long length of Paracord (n) around the middle of
each of the End Line Winders (g) through the

Thumb Hole (r). This will be used to suspend the
ends of the antenna.

4. Using a Bowline or similar knot with a loop, tie

one end of a long length of Paracord to the
Suspension Attachment Point (f).

Connect the Matching Transformer. Refer to plates
(2) through (4) for following steps.

5. Connect the Wire Connector (k) from one of the

Antenna Wires (h) to the Counterpoise
Connection (d) on the Matching Transformer (a).
Tighten the wing nut finger tight.

6. Attach a Carabiner (l) to the Isolation Loop on this

Antenna Wire.

7. Hook the Carabiner to the loop formed by the

knot in step (4). This provides strain relief.

8. Connect the Wire Connector from the other

Antenna Wire to the Antenna Connection (c).

CHA TD 2.0 Page 9

This is the red wing nut. Tighten the wing nut
finger tight.

Plate 4. Antenna Wire Connection.

9. Attach a Carabiner to the Isolation Loop on this

Antenna Wire.

10. Hook the Carabiner to the Carabiner from step

(7). This provides strain relief.

11. Connect the Coaxial Cable Assembly (p) to the

UHF Socket (e) on the Matching Transformer.

Raise the antenna.

12. Using a throw weight or some other method,

loop the free end of the Paracord from the
Center Line Winder over the center support.

13. Raise the Center Line Winder to the desired

height and secure the free end of the Paracord to
the support with a Round Turn and two Half
Hitches or similar knot.

Extend the Antenna Wires.

14. Extend the Antenna Wires to their full length.

15. Using a throw weight or some other method,

loop the free end of the Paracord from the End
Line Winders over the end supports.

16. Raise the End Line Winders to the desired

heights, such that the Antenna Wire has
sufficient sag to allow for swaying, and secure the
free ends of the Paracord to the supports with a
Round Turn and two Half Hitches or similar knot.

17. The ends of the Tail Wires (i) may be left dangling

or they can be secured using Paracord attached
to the Isolation Loops at the end of the Tail Wires
and then tied to the supports or to the ground
using Tent Stakes (not supplied).

18. Perform operational test.

Terminated Inverted “V”

The CHA TD 2.0 Terminated Inverted “V” configuration, see figure (2), is a broadband medium range HF antenna.
The Inverted “V” is a popular HF antenna and will provide good ground and sky wave propagation. The reason for
the popularity of the Inverted “V” is the ease of installation; in that it requires only one support and takes less space
than a horizontal dipole antenna. The CHA TD 2.0 Terminated Inverted “V” should be mounted at a height of around
25 to 40 feet for good overall results. When mounted at this height, the antenna is predominantly bidirectional
towards the ends of the antenna.
The ends of the antenna can be brought closer together, in the horizontal plane, to form a Sloping “V” antenna. An
angle down to 120 degrees will result in only a slight reduction in performance at lower frequencies, while causing
the antenna to have directivity towards the opening of the “V” on higher frequencies.

CHA TD 2.0 Page 10

Figure 2. Terminated Inverted “V” Configuration.

Site Selection and Preparation.

1. Select a site to deploy the CHA TD 2.0 Terminated

Inverted “V” configuration, see figure (2). The
best site should have a tree or other support that
would enable the Center Line Winder to be raised
to a height of around 25 to 40 feet. The Antenna
Wires and Tail Wires do not need to be in a
perfectly straight line. If tall supports are
unavailable, any convenient object, such as a
fence post or the top of a vehicle, may be used as
field expedient supports with reduced
performance.

2. Remove the Center Line Winder (b) and End Line

Winders (g) from the Field Pouch (o).

3. Using a Bowline or similar knot, tie one end of a

short length of Paracord (n) around the middle of
each of the End Line Winders (g) through the
Thumb Hole (r). This will be used to secure the
ends of the antenna.

4. Using a Bowline or similar knot with a loop, tie

one end of a long length of Paracord to the
Suspension Attachment Point (f).

Connect the Matching Transformer. Refer to plates
(2) through (4) for following steps.

5. Connect the Wire Connector (k) from one of the

Antenna Wires (h) to the Counterpoise
Connection (d) on the Matching Transformer (a).
Tighten the wing nut finger tight.

6. Attach a Carabiner (l) to the Isolation Loop on this

Antenna Wire.

7. Hook the Carabiner to the loop formed by the

knot in step (4). This provides strain relief.

8. Connect the Wire Connector from the other

Antenna Wire to the Antenna Connection (c).
This is the red wing nut. Tighten the wing nut
finger tight.

9. Attach a Carabiner to the Isolation Loop on this

Antenna Wire.

10. Hook the Carabiner to the Carabiner from step

(7). This provides strain relief.

11. Connect the Coaxial Cable Assembly (p) to the

UHF Socket (e) on the Matching Transformer.

Raise the antenna.

12. Using a throw weight or some other method,

loop the free end of the Paracord from the
Center Line Winder over the center support.

13. Raise the Center Line Winder to the desired

height and secure the free end of the long
Paracord to the support with a Round Turn and
two Half Hitches or similar knot.

Extend the Antenna Wires.

14. Extend the Antenna Wires to their full length to

positions near the desired end points of the
antenna.

15. Using nearby supports, such as small trees, fence

posts, or Tent Stakes, secure the free ends of the
short Paracord to the supports with a Round Turn
and two Half Hitches or similar knot. Ensure that
the Antenna Wire has sufficient sag to allow for
swaying.

16. The Tail Wires (i) should be laid on the ground,

mostly straight, in any convenient direction. The
Isolation Loops at the ends can be secured to the
ground using Tent Stakes (not supplied).

17. Perform operational test.

CHA TD 2.0 Page 11

Terminated “M”

The CHA TD 2.0 Terminated “M” configuration, see figure (3), is a broadband short to long range HF antenna. This
antenna configuration is especially effective for EMCOMM because the antenna has a horizontally polarized very
high takeoff angle on the 80/75, 60 and 40 Meter Amateur Service bands, which will provide good NVIS skywave
propagation for beyond line-of-sight intra-region communications, and a low takeoff angle on the 20 meter Amateur
Service band enabling medium to long range skywave propagation for communications outside the affected region.
The CHA TD 2.0 Terminated “M” should be mounted at a height of around 25 to 40 feet for good overall results.
When mounted at this height, the antenna is predominantly bidirectional broadside to the antenna.

Figure 3. Terminated “M” Configuration.

Site Selection and Preparation.

1. Select a site to deploy the CHA TD 2.0 Terminated

“M” configuration, see figure (3). The best site
should have two trees or other supports that
would enable the End Line Winders to be raised
to a height of around 25 to 40 feet. The Antenna
Wires do not need to be in a perfectly straight
line. If tall supports are unavailable, any
convenient object, such as fence posts or the top
of vehicles, may be used as field expedient
supports with reduced performance.

2. Remove the Center Line Winder (b) and End Line

Winders (g) from the Field Pouch (o).

3. Using a Bowline or similar knot, tie one end of a

long length of Paracord (n) around the middle of
each of the End Line Winders (g) through the
Thumb Hole (r). These will be used to suspend
the ends of the antenna.

4. Pass one end of a short length of Paracord

through the Suspension Attachment Point (f) and

tie a Square Knot or similar knot, forming a loop.
This will be used for strain relief in later steps.

Connect the Matching Transformer. Refer to plates
(2) through (4) for following steps.

5. Connect the Wire Connector (k) from one of the

Antenna Wires (h) to the Counterpoise
Connection (d) on the Matching Transformer (a).
Tighten the wing nut finger tight.

6. Attach a Carabiner (l) to the Isolation Loop on this

Antenna Wire.

7. Hook the Carabiner to the loop formed by the

knot in step (4). This provides strain relief.

8. Connect the Wire Connector from the other

Antenna Wire to the Antenna Connection (c).
This is the red wing nut. Tighten the wing nut
finger tight.

9. Attach a Carabiner to the Isolation Loop on this

Antenna Wire.

10. Hook the Carabiner to the Carabiner from step

(7). This provides strain relief.

CHA TD 2.0 Page 12

11. Connect the Coaxial Cable Assembly (p) to the

UHF Socket (e) on the Matching Transformer.

Raise the antenna.

12. Using a throw weight or some other method,

loop the free ends of the Paracord from the End
Line Winders over the end supports.

Extend the Antenna Wires.

13. Extend the Antenna Wires to their full length to

positions near the desired end points of the
antenna.

14. Raise the End Line Winders to the desired height

and secure the free ends of the Paracord to the
support with a Round Turn and two Half Hitches
or similar knot. Ensure that the Antenna Wires
have sufficient sag to allow for swaying.

15. The ends of the Tail Wires (i) may be left dangling

or they can be secured using short lengths of
Paracord tied to the Isolation Loops at the end of
the Tail Wires and then tied to the supports or
the ground using Tent Stakes (not supplied).

16. Perform operational test.

Terminated Sloping Wire

The CHA TD 2.0 Sloping Wire configuration, see figure (5), is a broadband medium range HF antenna. It should
provide acceptable ground wave and sky wave propagation. The Sloping Wire requires one support, is a good
general-purpose antenna, and is excellent for hasty deployment. It should be mounted at a height of 25 to 40 feet
for best performance. This configuration is predominately omnidirectional, slightly favoring the direction of the low
end of the antenna on lower frequencies, broadside around 10 MHz, and the high end of the antenna on higher
frequencies. There are several end-fed configurations that are minor variations of the Terminated Sloping Wire
Configuration, such as the Inverted “L”, Inverted “U”, Inverted “V”, and so forth, that can be considered by the
operator based on operational requirements and site availability.

Figure 4. Terminated Sloping Wire Configuration.

To operate efficiently, all CHA TD 2.0 end-fed configurations need one or more counterpoise wires. A single non­resonant counterpoise with a length of 25 feet will provide satisfactory performance on all frequencies. However,
increasing the number of counterpoise wires will increase the efficiency of the antenna, with four being a good
compromise between performance and practicality. Chameleon Antenna

TM

offers a counterpoise kit (CHA

COUNTERPOISE KIT), which consists of four 25 ft radials and Tent Stakes. Contact Chameleon Antenna

TM

for
availability and price. If fabricating your own counterpoise, table 3 shows the recommended wire lengths by
Amateur Service bands.

CHA TD 2.0 Page 13

BAND

LENGTH (FT)

160

52

80

27

60

18

40

13

30 9 20

7

17-10

5

Table 3. Recommended Counterpoise Length.

Site Selection and Preparation.

1. Select a site to deploy the CHA TD 2.0 Terminated

Sloping Wire configuration, see figure (4). The
best site should have a tree or other support that
would enable the End Line Winder to be raised to
a height of around 25 to 40 feet. The Antenna
Wire does not need to be in a perfectly straight
line. If a tall support is unavailable, any
convenient object, such as a fence post or the top
of a vehicle, may be used as a field expedient
support with reduced performance.

2. Remove the Center Line Winder (b) and an End

Line Winder (g) from the Field Pouch (o).

3. Using a Bowline or similar knot, tie one end of a

long length of Paracord (n) around the middle of
the End Line Winders (g) through the Thumb Hole
(r). This will be used to suspend the end of the
antenna.

4. Pass one end of a short length of Paracord

through the Suspension Attachment Point (f) and
tie a Square Knot or similar knot, forming a loop.
This will be used for strain relief and to anchor
the bottom end of the antenna to the ground in
later steps.

Connect the Matching Transformer. Refer to plates
(2) through (4) for following steps.

5. Connect the Counterpoise Wire (not supplied) to

the Counterpoise Connection (d) on the
Matching Transformer (a). Tighten the wing nut
finger tight.

6. Connect the Wire Connector (k) from the

Antenna Wire (h) to the Antenna Connection (c).

This is the red wing nut. Tighten the wing nut
finger tight.

7. Attach a Carabiner to the Isolation Loop on the

Antenna Wire.

8. Hook the Carabiner to the Paracord loop from

step (4). This provides strain relief.

9. Connect the Coaxial Cable Assembly (p) to the

UHF Socket (e) on the Matching Transformer.

Extend the Antenna Wire.

10. Extend the Antenna Wire to its full length to a

position near the desired end point of the
antenna.

Raise the antenna.

11. Using a throw weight or some other method,

loop the free end of the Paracord from the End
Line Winder over the end support.

12. Raise the End Line Winder to the desired height

and secure the free end of the Paracord to the
support with a Round Turn and two Half Hitches
or similar knot.

13. The end of the Tail Wire (i) may be left dangling

or it can be secured using Paracord attached to
the Isolation Loop at the end of the Tail Wire and
then tied to the support or the ground using a
Tent Stake (not supplied).

14. Pull the Center Line Winder away from the end

point such that the Antenna Wire is somewhat
taut, ensuring that the Antenna Wire has
sufficient sag to allow for swaying.

15. Fasten the Center Line Winder to the ground by

passing a Tent Stake (not supplied) through the

CHA TD 2.0 Page 14

Paracord loop from step (4) and driving the stake
into the ground.

16. The Counterpoise Wire(s) should be placed on

the ground, in a mostly straight line, in any
convenient direction. The end of the

Counterpoise Wire may be left free or it can be
secured to the ground using a Tent Stake through
the Isolation Loop.

17. Perform operational test.

Recovery Procedure

To recover the CHA TD 2.0, perform the following steps:

1. Disconnect the Coaxial Cable Assembly (p) from the radio set.

2. Lower the antenna to the ground.

3. Disconnect the Coaxial Cable Assembly from the Matching Transformer (a).

4. Carefully roll (do not twist) the Coaxial Cable Assembly.

5. Disconnect the Antenna Wires (h) and Counterpoise Wire from the Matching Transformer (a).

6. Wind the Paracord (n) onto the Center Line Winder (b) and secure with attached shock cord.

7. Wind the Antenna Wires and Tail Wires (i) onto the End Line Winders (g) and secure with attached shock cord.

8. Remove dirt from antenna components and inspect them for signs of wear.

9. Place the Center Line Winder and End Line Winders in the Field Pouch (0).

Troubleshooting

1. Ensure Wire Connectors (k) are securely connected.

2. Inspect Antenna Wires (h) and Tail Wires (i) for breakage or signs of strain.

3. Ensure UHF Plug from the Coaxial Cable Assembly (p) is securely connected to the UHF Socket (e).

4. Inspect Coaxial Cable Assembly for cuts in insulation or exposed shielding.

5. If still not operational, replace Coaxial Cable Assembly. Most problems with antenna systems are caused by

the coaxial cables and connectors.

6. If still not operational, connect a Standing Wave Ratio (SWR) Power Meter and check SWR.

7. If SWR is greater than 3:1, contact Chameleon Antenna

TM

at [e-mail] for technical
support, be sure to include details on the antenna configuration, symptoms of the problem, and what steps
you have taken.

Accessories

The following accessories are available for purchase from Chameleon AntennaTM. Please contact us at

[e-mail] for current prices and availability.

• Counterpoise Kit. The Counterpoise Kit is ideal for portable antenna deployment. The system will create

the ground-plane needed for any CHA TD 2.0 end-fed antenna configuration. It contains four 25 foot wire
radials secured around plastic wire winders and four steel Tent Stakes.

• 50’ Paracord and Line Winder Assembly. One assembly is recommended to enable installation the CHA

TD 2.0 configurations that require more than one support.

• Coaxial Cable Assembly. 50 feet of RG-58 with integrated RFI Choke. Used to connect the CHA TD 2.0 to

the radio set. This is a highly recommended accessory if you are not using a CHA RFI CHOKE.

CHA TD 2.0 Page 15

Specifications

• Frequency: 1.8 MHz through 30.0 MHz continuous (including all Amateur Radio Service bands 160m to

10m)

• Power: 50 W continuous duty cycle (CW, AM, FM, RTTY), 100 W intermittent duty cycle (SSB and SSB-

based digital modes)

• RF Connection: UHF Plug (PL-259)

• SWR: Subject to frequency and configuration, as measured see table (4), but typically less than 2.5:1. An

antenna tuner or coupler can be used, but is not usually required with this antenna.

• Length: 120 ft

• Weight: 3.4 lbs

• 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

• Personnel Requirements and Setup Time: one trained operator, less than 15 minutes

• Far Field plots for the four basic CHA TD 2.0 are shown in figures (5) through (8)

FREQUENCY

Inverted “V”

SWR

Sloping Wire

SWR

1.9

1.4

1.5

3.6

1.3

1.1

5.4

2.0

1.6

7.1

2.4

1.9

10.1

1.7

1.2

14.1

2.1

1.6

18.1

1.7

1.8

21.1

1.6

1.3

24.9

2.2

1.9

28.5

1.3

1.2

Table 4. CHA TD 2.0 Measured SWR.

CHA TD 2.0 Page 16

Figure 5. Terminated Dipole Far Field Plot.

Figure 6. Terminated Inverted “V” Far Field Plot.

CHA TD 2.0 Page 17

Figure 7. Terminated “M” Far Field Plot.

Figure 8. Terminated Sloping Wire Far Field Plot.

CHA TD 2.0 Page 18

Chameleon AntennaTM Products

The following products are available for purchase at Chameleon AntennaTM.
Go to http://chameleonantenna.com for ordering and more information.

CHA P-LOOP 2.0 - The CHA P-LOOP 2.0 was designed
with portability, ease of use simplicity, ruggedness
and high performance in mind. Unlike any other
similar antennas on the market, the CHA P-LOOP 2.0
is made with premium materials that are precisely
manufactured and assembled in the USA! This is an
exciting new product from Chameleon Antenna.
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. Covers 7.0-29.7 MHz.

CHA F-LOOP 2.0 – The CHA F-LOOP 2.0 was designed
with portability, ease of use simplicity, ruggedness
and high performance in mind. Unlike any other
similar antennas on the market, the CHA F-LOOP 2.0
is made with premium materials that are precisely
manufactured and assembled in the USA! 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.
Covers 3.5-29.7 MHz.

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 EMCOMM III Portable - The CHA EMCOMM II
Portable antenna has been specially designed for
portable field use and as an emergency HF antenna.
The integral broadband impedance matching
network allows broadband antenna tuning.

CHA EMCOMM III Base - The CHA EMCOMM II Base
antenna has been specially designed for permanent
base station installation or as a backup HF antenna.
The integral broadband impedance matching
network allows broadband antenna tuning.

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 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 and will greatly reduce the VSWR
at the load for the following antennas: V1, V1L, V2L
and MIL.

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 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 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

CHA TD 2.0 Page 19

hold together by a piece of 1/8th inch US GI MIL SPEC
shock cord. The CHA MIL Whip and a CHA HYBRID­MINI Base perfectly complements the capability of
the CHA HYBRID - MINI / MICRO.

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 - The CHA TD (Tactical Dipole)
Antenna is a HF broadband antenna 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. The antenna will work successfully
supported by trees, masts, the tops of vehicles or any
convenient object or structure. 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.

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.

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.