CHAMELEON ANTENNA TDL Instructions manual

Tactical Delta Loop

Antenna

Operator’s Manual

Nevada - USA

WWW.CHAMELEONANTENNA.COM

VERSATILE – DEPENDABLE – STEALTH – BUILT TO LAST

Tactical Delta Loop Page 2

Table of Contents

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

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

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

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

Inverted Delta Loop Configuration ....................................................................................................... 7

Ground Mounted Vertical Configuration .............................................................................................. 8

Recovery Procedure ................................................................................................................................ 10

Troubleshooting ...................................................................................................................................... 10

Accessories .............................................................................................................................................. 10

Specifications .......................................................................................................................................... 10

Chameleon AntennaTM Products ............................................................................................................ 12

References .............................................................................................................................................. 13

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.

!

!

Introduction

Thank you for purchasing and using the Chameleon Antenna
antenna, see plate (1), is a portable High Frequency (HF) antenna specially designed for transportability, quick setup,
and a small footprint. This antenna is ideal for camping or temporary installation in a townhome or other houses
with a small yard or antenna restrictions. It can operate on all amateur radio bands from 3.5 to 54.0 MHz (80-6m),
but is most effective on the bands from 10.1 to 54.0 MHZ (30-6m). The Tactical Delta Loop will also provide
acceptable shorter range Near-Vertical Incidence Skywave (NVIS) propagation on the 3.5 to 7.0 MHz bands (80 ­40m) making it a useful backup EMCOMM antenna or for amateur radio operators (hams) involved in disaster
preparedness.

TM

Tactical Delta Loop antenna. The Tactical Delta Loop

The Tactical Delta Loop can easily be configured as a
horizontally polarized inverted Delta Loop or as a
ground mounted vertical antenna. Some of the

Please read this operator’s manual so you may obtain
the maximum utility from your Tactical Delta Loop

antenna.
advantages of a Delta Loop antenna over a vertical
are increased efficiency, reduced noise, and some
broadside directionality. An antenna tuner or coupler
is required for operation on the amateur radio bands
from 3.5 to 7.0 MHz (80-40m). Setup can typically be
accomplished by one operator in 5 minutes.

The Tactical Delta Loop antenna is comprised of two
17-foot telescoping whip antennas, a matching
transformer, a 25-foot loop wire, a ground spike
mount, a “V” coupling.

Antennas built by Chameleon Antenna
versatile, dependable, stealthy, and built to last.

TM

are

Plate (1). Tactical Delta Loop 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 EMCOMM III Portable’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

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for field stations. Surface waves follow the curvature of the Earth beyond the radio horizon. They are usable, during

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

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.

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 multi-hop 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.

Table 1. Maximum Surface Wave Range by Frequency.

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 Tactical Delta Loop antenna is comprised of the following components, see plate (2):

a. Matching Transformer

The Matching Transformer is a CHA HYBRID MICRO and provides impedance matching for the Tactical Delta
Loop antenna.

b. Line Winder

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The Line Winder is used to store the Loop Wire (g) and enables rapid deployment and recovery of the Tactical
Delta Loop antenna.

Plate 2. Tactical Delta Loop Components.

c. Antenna Socket

The Antenna Sockets are the 3/8” x 24 threaded sockets used to attach the Telescoping Whips (h) and “V”
Coupling (j).

d. Counterpoise Connection

The Counterpoise Connection is the red knurled knob, on the side of the Spike Mount (l), used to connect the
Loop Wire as a counterpoise in the vertical antenna configuration.

e. UHF Socket

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

f. Antenna Clip

The Antenna Clips (not pictured) connect the ends of the Loop Wire to the tips of the Telescoping Whips (h).

g. Loop Wire

The Loop Wire consist of a 25-foot 4-inch length of insulated wire, wrapped around the Line Winder (b). It is
used as part of the antenna in the Inverted Delta Loop configuration and as the counterpoise in the Vertical
configuration.

h. Telescoping Whip

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The Telescoping Whip is a telescoping metal vertical radiator. It extends to 17 feet and collapses to 24 inches.

i. Base Stud

The Base Stud is a 3/8” x 24 threaded stud used to connect the Matching Transformer, “V” Coupling, and
Telescoping Whips to the Antenna Sockets (c).

j. “V” Coupling

The “V” Coupling connects the vertical legs of the Delta Loop to the Spike Mount.

k. Coaxial Cable Assembly - NOT INCLUDED

l. Spike Mount

The Spike Mount provides the base for the antenna.

m. Mount Socket

The Mount Socket is a 3/8” x 24 threaded socket used to mount the “V” Coupling or Matching Transformer to
the Spike Mount.

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Antenna Configurations

Configuration

Ground

Short

Medium

Long

Directionality

Inverted Delta Loop

↓

↑

Bi-directional

Vertical

↕

↕

Omni-directional

Using the supplied components, the Chameleon AntennaTM Tactical Delta Loop antenna can be deployed into two
useful configurations. They are described in this manual and each has unique operational performance
characteristics. Table (2) can assist the operator to quickly select the most appropriate antenna configuration to
meet their operational requirements.

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 Tactical Delta Loop configuration with the corresponding symbol in the appropriate distance column. Both
Tactical Delta Loop 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.

Inverted Delta Loop Configuration

The Tactical Delta Loop, Inverted Delta Loop configuration, see figure (1), is a short to medium range HF antenna. It
can provide acceptable NVIS propagation below 10 MHz and good medium range communications above 10 MHz.
This configuration is bidirectional broadside to the “V” of the antenna above 10 MHz and omni-directional below 10
MHz. Elevating the base will greatly improve the performance of the antenna, although it will decrease the
portability.

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Figure 1. Inverted Delta Loop Configurations.

Site Selection and Preparation.

1. Select a site to deploy the Tactical Delta Loop

Inverted Delta Loop configuration. The best site
would be a clear circular area, around 26 feet in
diameter.

2. Drive the Spike Mount (l) half way

(approximately eight inches) into the ground in
the center of the cleared area. Use a plastic or
rubber tent mallet to avoid damaging the face of
the Spike Mount.

Assemble Components.

3. Thread the Base Stud (i) on the bottom of the “V”

Coupling (j) into the Mount Socket (m) on top of
the Spike Mount. Tighten by hand until snug.

4. Starting at the bottom, extend a Telescoping

Whip (h), one section at a time, until it is fully
extended.

5. Thread the Base Stud of the Telescoping Whip

into the Antenna Socket (c) on top of the “V”
Coupling. Tighten by hand until snug.

6. Thread the base Stud of the Matching

Transformer (a) into the other Antenna Socket on
top of the “V” Coupling.

7. Starting at the bottom, extend the other

Telescoping Whip (h), one section at a time, until
it is fully extended.

8. Thread the Base Stud of the Telescoping Whip

into the Antenna Socket (c) on top of the

Matching Transformer. Tighten by hand until
snug.

9. Unwind the Loop Wire (g) from the Line Winder
(b). Secure the Line Winder to prevent it
becoming lost.

10. Clamp the Antenna Clip (f) from one end of the
Loop Wire to the end of one of the Telescoping
Whips just below the Corona Ball. Clamp the
Antenna Clip from the other end of the Loop Wire
to the other Telescoping Whip.

11. Connect your Coaxial Cable Assembly to the
UHF Socket (e) on the Matching Transformer.

The assembled antenna should look like that depicted
in figure (1) and plate (3).

12. Perform operational test.

Plate 3. Installed Inverted Delta Loop Configuration.

Ground Mounted Vertical Configuration

The Tactical Delta Loop, Ground Mounted Vertical configuration, see figure (2), is an omnidirectional medium range
HF antenna. It will provide good overall performance using skywave and ground wave propagation. This
configuration is quick and easy to setup. Improved performance can also be obtained using the optional
Counterpoise Kit; which will create an efficient ground-plane for the Vertical configuration.

Site Selection and Preparation.

1. Select a site to deploy the Tactical Delta Loop
Vertical configuration. The best site would be a
clear circular area around 26 feet in diameter.

2. Drive the Spike Mount (l) half way
(approximately eight inches) into the ground in
the center of the cleared area. Use a plastic or
rubber tent mallet to avoid damaging the face of
the Spike Mount.

Assemble Components.

3. Thread the base Stud of the Matching
Transformer (a) into the Mount Socket (m) on top
of the Spike Mount.

4. Starting at the bottom, extend the Telescoping
Whip (h), one section at a time, until it is fully
extended.

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Figure 2. Vertical Configuration.

5. Thread the Base Stud of the Telescoping Whip
into the Antenna Socket (c) on top of the
Matching Transformer. Tighten by hand until
snug.

6. Unwind the Loop Wire (g) from the Line Winder
(b). Secure the Line Winder to prevent it
becoming lost.

7. Clamp the Antenna Clip (f) from one end of the
Loop Wire to the threads of the Knurled Knob on
the Spike Mount.

8. Extend the Loop Wire as the counterpoise in any
convenient direction.

9. Connect your Coaxial Cable Assembly to the
UHF Socket (e) on the Matching Transformer.

The assembled antenna should look like that depicted
in figure (2) and plate (4).

Plate 4. Vertical Configuration.

10. Perform operational test.

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Recovery Procedure

To recover the Tactical Delta Loop antenna, perform the following steps:

1. Disconnect the Coaxial Cable Assembly from the radio set.

2. Unscrew the Telescoping Whips.

3. Starting from the top, collapse one section at a time until the Telescoping Whips are completely collapsed.

4. Disconnect the Coaxial Cable Assembly from the Matching Transformer.

5. Unscrew the Matching Transformer and “V” Coupling (if used).

6. Pull the Spike Mont out of the ground.

7. If used, wind the Loop Wire onto the Line Winder and secure with attached shock cord.

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

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

10. Store components together ready for next antenna deployment.

Troubleshooting

1. Inspect the Loop Wire for breakage or signs of strain.

2. Ensure UHF Plug from the Coaxial Cable Assembly is securely connected to the UHF Socket

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

4. If still not operational, replace Coaxial Cable Assembly. Most problems with antenna systems are caused by
the coaxial cables and connectors.

5. If still not operational, contact Chameleon Antenna
support, be sure to include details on the antenna configuration, symptoms of the problem, and what steps
you have taken.

TM

at [e-mail] for technical

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

an efficient ground-plane for the Tactical Delta Loop Vertical configuration. It contains four 25-foot wire
radials secured around plastic wire winders and four steel Tent Stakes.

Specifications

• Frequency: Amateur Radio Service bands 3.5 MHz through 54.0 MHz (80 - 6m). Performance is limited on

the 3.5 and 5.4MHz bands (80 and 60m) when using the inverted Delta Loop configuration.

• 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 figure (3), but typically less than 2.5:1

above 10.1 MHz (30m). An antenna tuner or coupler will be required for operation on Amateur Bands
from 3.5 to 7.0MHz (80 - 40m).

• Length: 25 ft 4 in.

• Weight: Approximately 5 lbs.

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• Personnel Requirements and Setup Time: one operator, approximately 5 minutes

• Far Field plots for the Tactical Delta Loop antenna configurations are shown in figures (4) and (5)

Figure 3. Typical Tactical Delta Loop Measured SWR.

Figure 4. Inverted Delta Loop Far Field Plot.

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Figure 5. Ground Mounted Vertical Far Field Plot.

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 EMCOMM III – The EMCOMM III Portable
antenna is a portable High Frequency (HF) antenna
specially designed for short to long range portable
and man-pack HF communications. The EMCOMM III
Portable antenna is ideal for hiking, backpacking, and
both tent and Recreational Vehicle (RV) camping. It
would also be ideal as a backup emergency HF
antenna.

CHA MPAS 2.0 – The Modular Portable Antenna
System (MPAS 2.0) is a concept allowing the radio
operator to configure and deploy the antenna system
in a variety of configurations. It covers 1.8 to 54.0
MHz and comes in a military-style backpack.

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 from 1.8-

30.0 MHz without any adjustment with most modern

Tactical Delta Loop Page 12

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 comes in
a military-style backpack.

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, 91st 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.

Tactical Delta Loop Page 13