Chameleon Antenna CHA P-LOOP 2.0 User manual

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 AntennaTM High Frequency (HF) Portable Loop Antenna 2.0

(CHA P-LOOP 2.0). This is an exciting new product from Chameleon AntennaTM 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 CHA-

PLOOP had much less man-made noise –a known

advantage of magnetic loop antennas. The CHA P-

LOOP 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 AntennaTM 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 P-

LOOP 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.

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