Amazing Performance: Chameleon Tactical Delta Loop Antenna Revisited

[@chrisazure1624]

I made something similar. I used two CB whips, a Cameleon on one end, wire, mueller clips and a Wolf River Ottophone Y, and WR coil on other whip (tunes antenna). I got a low SWR on several bands. I called it my Franken-tenna.

[@KN4VA]

Been wanting to try this. I have all the pieces. Which WR Coil did you use for this setup? I have all of the coils they make. KN4VA

[@chrisazure1624]

@@KN4VA The Silver Bullet Mini. I didn't need that much adjustment. Get light wire and the smaller mueller clips or it will droop.

[@KN4VA]

@@chrisazure1624 Thank you for the feedback. I actually have the wire from Chameleon that is used for their Delta loop, so I should be good to go. 73

[@n3rdglass]

heard you on 20m pota today while i was at a park, i tried getting through the pileup for 15 minutes but wasn't able to this time. my 3rd pota activation, wouldn't have happened without the help from your videos. i'll get that qso with you one day! thanks for the great videos! 73

[@markgrennan5855]

I have this antenna. I was outside in the rain, now and wind (OK) for months. It still looks and works like new. It has always worked well on all bands (with a Xigue G90) for POTA and home use. I've just suck it in the ground.

[@goodoz9942]

I like mine, for sure....made a contact on 17 in Slovenia while the TDL was secured to the top of the ladder on my camper (gulf coast location). I've also had some medium range QSOs on 40 (out to 800-900 miles). I wish I had a radio buddy 250 to 450 miles away so I could experiment with NVIS. Expensive antenna...but I'm glad it's in my kit. Notable, the TDL can be set up on the ground spike in just a couple of minutes.

[@N4GW]

It performs so well It has become my goto antenna

[@MrStanwyck]

Great review Michael. I’m just waiting on my second CHA SS17 to arrive so I can assemble the TDL antenna on top of the Chameleon 12 foot fiberglass mast I have. Have a good evening….. Bill KC2KNA

[@carlosroig5315]

A wire delta loop requires more setup time, a telescopic mast or tree. A vee dipole made with two telescopic whips, a Wolf River Coil and a piece of wire with alligator clips is an option but remember, you have to go and change the tap on the coil when changing bands. For Parks on the Air, no big deal, you change bands as soon as you complete the necessary contacts on each band. The Chameleon TDL is a different concept, more focused on emergency communications, fast setup, no coil tapping, etc. It is a field expedient ( tactical ) antenna. MFJ sells the Big Ears ( 2289 ) which uses two 17 feet telescopic whips, one loading coil and a V shaped center support. It sells for $249 but like most MFJ products, it's a bit fragile. MFJ whips break easily if not handled with care. Chameleon whips are much more rugged. You get what you pay for. Just my two cents. Thank you Michael for the follow up video and overall impressions. 73's

[@prahastu]

but it needs antenna tunner,, you don't need change the tap of wolf river if you have ant tunner too

[@markk7mwj37]

Glad you did this. I have also had mine put away for a while. I have two 12' tall - when extended - light stands for stage lighting I want to use the TDL up and see if it performs better than stuck in the dirt! Thanks, Mike

[@thelostiowan]

I use this setup alot -- even with the CHA MAST here in Minnesota and have gotten great reports. I found 40 meters for me, was better when elevated on the mast as compared to the ground. 73's Don

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

Elevating certainly helps this antenna.

[@thelostiowan]

It so totally does as during the Winter FD this year -- I worked Austria, Spain and some mediteranean islands at 50 watts but 25 ft up. @@KB9VBRAntennas

[@K4GDS]

I had a park to park with you that day (K-0896 to K-1447). The interesting part is that I was using a Chameleon TDL connected to an FT-891 also. K4GDS

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

That's awesome! Thanks for the contact

[@davidmcginnis4513]

The CHA delta loop consists of two 17 foot telescoping whips, a mystery transformer and some wire. Two 17 foot telescoping whips could make up a 1/2 wave dipole on 20 meters, and be adjusted for any band of higher frequency in the HF spectrum and low VHF. Two of these whips can be had from MFJ for much less than the $400 that CHA is asking for the delta. The thing to remember with antennas is this golden rule: Anything that is not antenna wire, antenna aluminum or antenna whip is loss to some degree. This includes the coax, twin lead, tuner, and most certainly traps, baluns, and "mystery" transformers. The objective is to minimize or manage the loss by making smart decisions with these parts. The other golden rule goes like this: Antennas can operate continuously over a wide frequency range (so not resonant or multi-resonant on discreet frequencies) either because 1) they are one of the variations of a log periodic design 2) they are one of the variations of a cone, conical, biconical, fractal design 3) they have a tuned circuit that is variable (tuned either by a microprocessor or operator) 4) because they have resistance either across the feed point or from the ends to ground. #1 and #2 are usually relatively large antennas and you see them typically at military, government and commercial sites. #3 and #4 are typically what we must consider when going portable, or operating with modest conditions. The CHA Loop can only be #4. You claim, now that the sunspot cycle is peaking that "this antenna is a performer". Now that the sun spot cycle is peaking, almost everything works! One has to ask, would you have done as well, or better with a simple dipole or something like a buddy-pole. Would the two 17 foot telescoping whips configured as a simple dipole without the mystery transformer done as well or better? Would the simple wire dipole or telescoping whip dipole done better than the CHA loop a few years ago when the sunspot cycle wasn't peaking? If the answer is yes, then the CHA loop really its not that good is it?

[@dcfartsniffer4908]

We've a sad ham alert from someone who likes to give input without trying the product... Armchair warrior! You go buddy!

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

Lot's of misrepresentation here coached in the form of a 'question.' The transformer is no mystery. It's pretty upfront that the transformer is a 5:1 design. MFJ whips are not of the same caliber or quality as the Chameleon whip. I don't think they'd be up to the challenge of a deployment in this fashion. Finally, my comment about the sunspot cycle isn't so much an explanation why the supposed 'wet noodle' antenna works, but instead an opportunity to use an antenna that performs best on the upper bands when the upper bands are available to us. I could use a different antenna. If you are a follower of the channel, which I'm guessing you are not, you would know that I deploy a wide variety of antennas and take the time to explain their operation. I show their practical benefits and say why or why you wouldn't want to use this antenna. Sure, a simple dipole would most likely perform better, but I don't always have the opportunity to put wire in the air. I enjoy using 1/4 wave vertical antennas like those by Wolf River Coil, but I also like the ability to switch bands without having to readjust the antenna. In the realm of portable amateur radio operations, we make the choice of efficiency vs convenience all the time because the surroundings don't give us the ability to deploy the perfect antenna. I just don't get all this Chameleon hate, but whatever. You do you.

[@johnk23705]

@@KB9VBRAntennas I have to laugh, first the OP is shamed by "DC Fart Sniffer"???? and the shame confirmed by Chameleon. Then excuses are made for why this antenna was used. If this antenna is so good, why do you seldom use any Chameleon antenna in your non Chameleon review POTA videos ? You have no problems setting up many different, much more efficient antennas and having them work very well. There is never a place you have not been able to operate with a more efficient portable design antenna. The little time it takes to change a tap on a vertical is never a problem. On an EFHF, no need to change anything. Actions speak far louder than words. Kinda like my old Hot Rodding days..."If it don't run, chrome it". The OP's post is spot on. He is not saying anything that is not true or factual. He is pointing out the lack of efficiency of an antenna designed with a 5 to 1 transformer. He gets shamed for telling the truth. When anyone needs to hide facts, they use shame to try and silence the truth. There are Experienced Men out here who are not afraid to tell the truth like the O.P.. I only hope people will listen and do their own research. You don't need to use an antenna that is far less efficient in design then antennas that will not only offer more efficiency, but have better SWR. You won't have the added losses from higher SWR to add to the 50% loss in the 5 to 1 transformer (Reference "Survival Comms" Chameleon Snake Oil' Video). You will have also saved a lot of $$$ in most cases. Remember, add the word "Tactical" to anything for sale and you can ask 75% more money for it than it's worth. Other antenna company's don't hand out their antennas free, like candy, to youtuber's for review. They know their antennas work. They stand on performance. P.T. Barnum was right. P.S., Michael, you are far from being stupid, you know why the hate for Chameleon is so real.

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

To come back, almost a month later, to carry on the fight with the same ad hominem attacks tells me that you'e got Chameleon living rent free in your head. I did watch the video you referenced, at least I believe I did, you didn't provide a definitive link. But I came away with a different understanding of the losses than you. Putting the 5;1 transformer back to back, it was measured to have a 1.5 dB loss with the vector analyzer. That's a far cry from the 6 dB that you are alleging. In the test between the MPAS vertical and a third party wire antenna, there is an S-unit difference. But that's an apples to oranges comparison, and the MPAS in wire configuration was much closer in performance to his 'reference' antenna than the vertical antenna. That's to be expected. So I'm not seeing how this is 'snake oil.' Finally, your claim that I don't use these antennas. Yes, I use a wide variety of antenna styles in my portable activations, some make it to a video and some don't. This allows me to speak competently about an antenna system because I am using them in a variety of situations. I was under no obligation from Chameleon to make this video. I had reviewed the TDL system a couple years ago and supplied them with the content. In using the antenna again, I found my experience with it different as the solar cycle had improved and made available to us the higher bands which this antenna seems to really excel at. I felt I needed to share that with the community in the form of a video.

[@prahastu]

@@KB9VBRAntennas if you have antenna tunner every antenna is become practical, even the wolf river. For me this is not practical because the needs of antenna tunner

[@vetinger]

Thank a lot for your great explanation and video which are so helpful for little experience HAMers.

[@chuckrann9784]

Try this antenna with a second tripod and delta loop config as a reflector. Spaced accordingly for band. I’ll bet you get a 5-6 db+ gain. I made a 1 wave link loop antenna for 10 meters back in the 80’s that gave me +10 db in Europe. Lost it in a derecho storm. Itching to re create it now. Thanks for the great videos. 73.

[@Chameleon_Antenna]

'm intrigued by that configuration! Would you like to share more info about that as I would love to try it out!

[@chuckrann6282]

​@@Chameleon_Antenna I was referring to a home brew multi loop antenna with great gain front to back at home QTH. So a second V reflector should give you gain, even in poor conditions. Tripod? Easel? Coil to reduce size? Folding spreader arms and wire top? I have even had a horizontal loop on 40 meters. Loops work great and the two diamond config should provide some gain.

[@benkorbel]

@@Chameleon_AntennaI want to add a reflector to try as well when mine arrives, as I have two spare 17' whips for a second delta loop and just need the hub.

[@andy2E0JIU]

Great video Mike,looks like people actually wait for you to call qrz instead of all jumping in when you do pota.am going to do my first park in couple of weeks time,nervous but looking forward to it .73 mate from 🇬🇧

[@RichardHopkinsLobosSolos]

Good information about the antenna.

[@walteredwards544]

The good thing about the TDL, you can reconfigure the antenna to a standard vertical and get all the DX you want.( just add more counterpoise wire or add radials)

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

Yes, with a homebrew counterpoise (or magic carpet) you get a second antenna for the price of one.

[@DaDitDa]

EZNEC modeling of this delta loop indicates that it's very close to resonant at the 17 meter band.

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

I would agree. Sweeping the bands with an analyzer, you'll get your best SWR on the 17 meter band.

[@Frank_K4FMH]

I’ve done extensive testing of two 17’ whips and a wire like Chameleon provides. While the resonance varies with height above ground, it 17 meters when < 5’ AGL. I’ve built a couple of these vertical Delta Loops and will be preparing an article on the two versions but will say that it can be a great POTA antenna for parks where stakes on the ground and lines in trees are not allowed. I’ve acquired a $30 patio umbrella stand as a “nondestructive” mount.

[@Dennis35793]

Nice antenna I like it thanks Mike.

[@lousadventures2111]

I tried you with 5w maritime with a 20m telescopic whip to the radio directly from New York harbor. 73s de n3lou

[@davidmerchant8245]

Were you just intermittently logging that park...LOL. Great reviews!!!

[@joe-kb9rcr]

I think this would be a great antenna to pair with the CHA URT-1 tuner.

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

That would be a great combination.

[@christophersmith1155]

im going to use this for 11 meters CB

[@JS-oq2cd]

Try running about 5 snap on mix 44 ferrites near the feedpoint...Fair Rite #0444164281 will just fit snug on RG-8X. These can help lower SWR and help keeping any RF on the shield from disturbing the radiation pattern. Something else I noticed with mine...the telescoping elements had a film of grease on them. Took isopropyl alcohol and wiped them down.

[@frankwc0o]

I like the vertical antennas, well made. Which the Delta loop be less expensive.

[@rec929]

What about grounding the antenna ? If you have any antenna on tripods, is it necessary to ground ? I know radials aren’t needed … thanks !! 73 from Costa Rica

[@mdwestlund1]

For about 4 years I used a loaded delta loop on 80 and 40 . Wa6ols Wes.

[@JamesHindsW5ATJ]

Hi Michael, Great video. What tripod are you using? Thanks

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

I exclusively use Manfrotto tripods for my photography and videography. In this video the TDL was supported by an old Bogen 3001 (Manfrotto) legs. That model is no longer produced and I don't know what the replacement would be. I think for an antenna support I'd stay away from carbon fiber legs. Cheap ones are too lightweight and sturdy ones are too expensive. I'd also look for something where the legs and head are sold separately. You don't need a photo/video head for an antenna support. Instead, I use a Manfrotto quick release plate like this: amzn.to/48VmcBX

[@JamesHindsW5ATJ]

@@KB9VBRAntennas Hi Michael, Thanks so much for the response. I really appreciate it. I just ordered the plate from amazon and will look for a tripod. Hope to catch you on the air some time. Jim

[@fm71450]

Michael, thank you for this video. I am surprised at the amount of negativity directed toward Chameleon. Anyway, 73 KQ4IXD

[@johnk23705]

Congrats Michael, you just proved that when the solar conditions are great, you can make decent contacts with a highly compromised antenna. When the conditions are good, you can make decent contacts with almost anything. The TDL antenna starts with losing at least 6 db in the 5 to 1 transformer and then on 20 meters looses even more with the SWR over 2 to 1. Most tactical work is done at 20 meters and lower, not higher. At $400.00 plus, I just don't see any reason to buy this antenna. There are so many other antennas that will do far better for much less money. Just think how much better your contact map would have looked like with a really good $50. to $200. antenna.

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

Do you have a reference or citation stating that a 5:1 Unun has 6dB of loss? Searching online the worst I could find is 70% efficiency which is a far cry from 6 dB. But, to put things in perspective, 6 dB is only one S unit, which would be hardly noticeable in most conditions.

[@johnk23705]

​@@Chameleon_AntennaThe truth hurts. Go to YT channel "Survivalcomms" and look for the Chameleon Snake Oil video. He shows the massive losses with the Chameleon 5 to 1 transformer.

[@Chameleon_Antenna]

@@johnk23705 Poor guy! That's my bad I shouldn't have fed the troll in you. Trolling is simply acidic stupidity. Smart people, by complete contrast, are interested in unfamiliar ideas and research and study them.

[@Aramalas]

@@Chameleon_Antennaseeing as ding dong was only able to throw insults instead of providing proof for his arguments, do you have RF loss data for 5:1 transformers at various frequencies? I’ve had nothing but good experiences with my CHA Hybrid Mini for those super cold days when going outside of my tent/vehicle to change bands is very undesirable.

[@Chameleon_Antenna]

@@Aramalas RF Losses will vary depending of the antenna configuration used, coax types and length, elevation and others. You're ALWAYS going to have losses in a portable compromised antenna - but you have to be able to go around by using the proper antenna setting that is available to you by using whatever parts from the kit (LEGO BLOCK system). This is why our antenna are based on the LEGO BLOCK system so operator can adapt to any situations and landscapes. Is it going to be better than a full wave dipole elevated at 40'? Of course not but CHA TDL it will allow you to be able to operate anywhere and anytime!

[@natep121]

How much does the wind push on that? It looked pretty floppy in the introduction segment. Great video!

[@Chameleon_Antenna]

You can operate the unit with 30 to 50 mph wind no problem. The SS whip will simply bend in the wind while keeping the top wire horizontal with the ground thus never loosing NVIS capabilities!

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

It was quite windy that day. Gusts were in the upper 20's so the antenna was twisting and swaying a bit. But it handled the wind load quite well.

[@daveN2MXX]

There are several comments here disparaging the mpas 5:1 "do everything" matching transformer. Chameleon never states this is an optimal performing system on all bands...but it does work. They state these devices are mil-spec, not that the militaor actually uses them....that claim is usually misstated by youtubers or other online "experts". The materials and workmanship from chameleon is typically excellent, and it is not cheap to manufacture this stuff...so the astronomical price is probably justified. These antennas are an excellent option for those with $$$ and verly little knowledge about antennas....not everyone knows (or cares to know) how this or other antenna designs work. Michael provides a fair review of this (and many other) antennas. Does it work? Yes. Is this as good as a resonant full-size antenna? Maybe....but it depends on the band....but thebuse case for this and other mpas system antennas is when quick deployment is required and performance on 20m and higher is a secondary concern.

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

All excellent points. Antennas are nothing more than tools, and it takes a bit of skill to pick the right tool for the job. You need to consider band conditions, location challenges, and personal objectives when choosing an antenna. I can't always set up a 1/2 wave dipole or even an end fed antenna at every spot I operate from. If I can show a variety of antennas operating in different situations, hopefully others will get the idea of how the aforementioned considerations play into portable operations.

[@daveN2MXX]

​@@KB9VBRAntennasExactly Michael. Thank you for your videos and fair/unbiased real-world equipment reviews. The best for one operator might not be great for someone else, and one needs to consider antenna efficiency expectations, band conditions, knowledge/ability, and need for portability/deployment speed. I noticed that when the MPAS was sent to most popular youtubers for review, almost every one acted like it was a game changer and they would never use another antenna in the field ever again....now, I almost never see one deployed in recent videos. Nothing is the perfect antenna for everyone or every situation. 73

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

I've used the MPAS a few times over the years, but the challenge I have is that for the time it takes to deploy, I can just as easily set up a 1/4 wave whip and ground screen counterpoise. Same with their wire deployment. For the effort it takes to put up the 60 foot wire and 26 foot counterpoise, I can put up a 71 foot 9:1 end fed random wire antenna. I've got some videos planned that will include the MPAS vertical, so stay tuned.

[@johnk23705]

@@KB9VBRAntennas But I thought the "Speed" of set up was so much better with Chameleon products ? Enough to make it worth the far greater losses the 5 to 1 transformers have. LMAO. Anyway, the O.P. is right, Chameleon hands out antennas to youtuber's like candy, they review them, say how great they are. But it's a cold day in hell when you see any youtuber not doing a review on a Chameleon antenna use one. Don't believe your lie'n eyes.

[@Philip-KA4KOE]

It's fine on 20m and up. 30 meh. 40m and below disappointing. Bogen tripods rock. Working on one resonant on 40 and above hung from a 12m pole for portable.

[@Orbit2020]

Another fine video. How do think the CHA TDL would perform compared to the same whips in a V dipole configuration, such as in the Alpha Antenna Hextenna? Any easy way to turn the TDL into a V dipole? If attached with hybrid mini/micro would function as an OCF dipole? 73

[@Chameleon_Antenna]

Simply remove the top wire at the top!

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

I'm not sure about the OCF dipole, that might take a bit of experimenting with whip lengths to find a combination that works. But removing the top wire will turn the antenna into a V dipole. Consider this. The 5:1 transformer works with the 17 foot whip as a vertical antenna. Putting that assembly on its side will not change the SWR. The second whip becomes your counterpoise.

[@Orbit2020]

@@KB9VBRAntennas good points, thank you!

[@johngriswold]

But with a $30 4:1, 40m of wire and the mast you already have… This antenna is obscenely overpriced.

[@Chameleon_Antenna]

Lol - you can still enjoy your Pinto 1971 - but others prefer more modern technologies!

[@Chameleon_Antenna]

What do you know about manufacturing in the US? I really want to hear it! Lol

[@Mike_12345]

Nobody seems to understand the overhead that goes into manufacturing, especially here in the US. Sure you can build one yourself for less. But consider what your time is worth. What rate would you accept for the work that goes into making a product? You have to design your parts, source the parts, pay for shipping, assemble said parts, test your builds, iterate designs until it all works, market your product, have customer support, keep good books, pay 30% or more of your profits to the government, all this adds up. If you enjoy building antennas, that’s awesome. But you’re likely not going to get a set of custom CNC parts made for anywhere near the price of a single one of these matching units. That’s where the value is here, it’s in the physical build, not the guts of the antenna or even the performance for that matter. The amount of profit made on these would probably shock you. Anyway just some food for thought. Carry on.

[@johnk23705]

​@Mike_12345 True, but if it is not efficient, why would you pay for poor performance ?

[@daveN2MXX]

​@@johnk23705 the MPAS line is not about efficiency....this product is used when rapid deployment is desired. Would I buy one? No. But many people want to set-up and operate quickly. Do they understand that it is a compromise compared to other more efficient options? Maybe....maybe not. I don't think social media comments are going to change anybody's mind.

[@emacUTube2]

Nice Video, what is the make and model of the Tripod? Thanks

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

It's a set of Bogen (Manfrotto) 3001 legs with a Manfrotto quick release plate on top. The legs are no longer made, and I'm not sure what the replacement would be. There's a link to the quick release plate in the video description.

[@Frank_K4FMH]

Manfrotto tripods can be had cheaply on eBay…they are not light but are built superbly!

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

All my video tripods are Manfrotto. They are nearly indestructible and it you break it, replacement parts are available.

[@carypeaden4147]

What specific tripod would you recommend for using with the CHA TDL for POTAs? I don't know what tripod you used in this video, but if you did not have that one would you buy that one again or another one?

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

I exclusively use Manfrotto tripods for my photography and videography. In this video the TDL was supported by an old Bogen 3001 (Manfrotto) legs. That model is no longer produced and I don't know what the replacement would be. For video I'm currently using a Manfrotto MT055XPRO3 legs. They are quite substantial, but not cheap. I think for an antenna support I'd stay away from carbon fiber legs. Cheap ones are too lightweight and sturdy ones are too expensive. I'd also look for something where the legs and head are sold separately. You don't need a photo/video head for an antenna support. Instead, I use a Manfrotto quick release plate like this: amzn.to/48VmcBX I think a surveyors tripod would also be a good option, but the problem is they use a different thread size for their mounting system, so you'd have to fashion some type of adapter.

[@LeeMcc_KI5YPR]

Michael, when you gave the antenna gain, you said dB. Was that dBi or dBd?

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

The reference materials I pulled the gain figures from did not specify, so I will say that it is dBi.

[@Chameleon_Antenna]

Chameleon Antennas such as the CHA TDL and the CHA MPAS 2.0 are like the Leatherman Multi-tool. So let's use the Leatherman Multi-Tool analogy into five specific scenarios to highlight how a Chameleon Antenna, like the CHA TDL or CHA MPAS 2.0, parallels the utility and versatility of a Leatherman: Backpacking in Remote Wilderness: Leatherman Parallel: Just as a Leatherman provides a hiker with essential tools in a compact form, the Chameleon Antenna serves as an all-in-one communication solution for the radio operator in the wilderness. It’s the radio equivalent of a multi-tool, combining portability, ease of use, and functionality, enabling communication in remote areas where carrying a full-scale antenna is as impractical as lugging a complete toolbox on a hike. Emergency Communications During Natural Disasters: Leatherman Parallel: In disaster scenarios, responders often rely on multi-tools like a Leatherman for quick and versatile problem-solving. Similarly, Chameleon Antennas are invaluable for establishing emergency communications. Their quick deployability and adaptability to various conditions mirror a Leatherman’s ability to provide multiple tools at a moment's notice, where setting up large, stationary antennas would be as unfeasible as using a full-scale toolbox in a rapidly changing, chaotic environment. Military or Covert Operations in Unfamiliar Territories: Leatherman Parallel: For military personnel, a Leatherman is a vital piece of gear, offering numerous tools in a compact form, much needed in unpredictable conditions. The Chameleon Antenna is the communications counterpart of this versatility and compactness. Its ability to be set up and dismantled quickly and discreetly in hostile or unknown environments is parallel to how a soldier utilizes a Leatherman for various tasks under varied circumstances, where larger tools or antennas would be cumbersome and impractical. Summits on the Air (SOTA) Activations: Leatherman Parallel: Just as a Leatherman is the go-to tool for hikers due to its lightweight, multi-purpose functionality, the Chameleon Antenna is ideal for SOTA enthusiasts. It's the ‘multi-tool’ of antennas, offering a lightweight, versatile solution for establishing communication from mountain summits. This is akin to how a Leatherman consolidates essential tools in a hiker's pack, making the antenna indispensable in situations where carrying a larger antenna is as impractical as bringing a full toolbox on a steep hike. Urban Stealth Amateur Radio Operations: Leatherman Parallel: In urban environments where space is limited and restrictions are in place, a Leatherman serves as a discreet tool for quick fixes, just like how a Chameleon Antenna provides a stealthy and compact solution for amateur radio operators. The antenna’s ability to be set up and dismantled quickly and unobtrusively parallels the Leatherman's role as a multi-purpose, discreet tool in an urban setting, where using larger antennas would be as conspicuous and impractical as using a full set of tools in a confined space. In each of these scenarios, the Chameleon Antenna exemplifies the qualities of a Leatherman Multi-Tool in the world of radio communications - compact, versatile, durable, and ready for a multitude of situations, making it the ideal choice in circumstances where traditional, larger antennas are impractical or impossible to use.

[@johnk23705]

I agree, like a Leatherman. A tool that might work in a pinch, but will never work anywhere near as good as a tool designed to be efficient. You have a nut that needs to be tightened. A wrench, which is about the same size and lighter than a Leatherman will do a far better job, but darn, all you have is this damn Leatherman. It will work, but the chance of failure if far greater. Oh, and the cost. Good analogy Chameleon !

[@k6usy]

I don’t really like how the coax sticks out of the base like that. Not good for the cable over time.

[@imahamjim]

Use 90 degree connector. To save the coax😊

[@Chameleon_Antenna]

@@imahamjim Dam right!

[@vincentditizio8790]

Would it work better with a non metallic tripod, like carbon fiber? I know that’s recommended for mag loops.

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

That's a good question, and I'm not sure if a non metal tripod will make a difference. Some people say the metal tripod becomes part of the antenna system. But without some sort of evidence to that, I am having a hard time believing it.

[@Chameleon_Antenna]

It won't change anything even for magloop.

[@jamesabc372]

​@@KB9VBRAntennasMaybe a metal tripod will be part of the ground for your vertical polarization?

[@gregmalonewa3gm680]

Michael what tripod are you using??? WA3GM

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

It's a set of Bogen (Manfrotto) 3001 legs with a Manfrotto quick release plate on top. The legs are no longer made, and I'm not sure what the replacement would be. There's a link to the quick release plate in the video description.

[@gregmalonewa3gm680]

Thanks

[@carypeaden4147]

How can you be giving them two parks at once since you are only at one location?

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

Often times trails will run through parks or wildlife and natural area may be superimposed. At those junctures you can activate both entities. In this case I was in the Plover River State Fish and Wildlife Area K-10054 of which the Ice Age National Scenic Trail K-4238 runs through. I was parked at the trailhead of the IAT inside the wildlife area.

[@joe-kb9rcr]

​@@KB9VBRAntennasMicheal, how do you find this out? I would hate to be at a location and only give out one number when I'm sitting on two or more. Btw, another great video. I'm thinking of trying a delta loop next year. 73

[@bEnSlAmMin]

What tuner are you using I'm thinking of getting the yaesu 891 you have

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

I'm using the LDG Z11 Pro II auto tuner: amzn.to/3x12UgZ

[@bEnSlAmMin]

@KB9VBRAntennas thank you so much can you use these tuners on any radio or are they just for yaesu I have been licensed since 2016 but only just getting into HF

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

That model will work on any radio. If you don't have a control cable connected to it, you switch your transceiver to a digital mode like RTTY and the transmitted carrier will cause the tuner to operate.

[@bEnSlAmMin]

@KB9VBRAntennas thank you so much and thank you for dothese amazing videos at the minute I'm on the icom ic 726 using a MAT 180 H tuner using the G5RV mini but looking to expand I order the battery you suggest the other week just waiting and hopefully soon order some antennas I need something for pota and something at home I can't decide at the moment as I'm in in a HOA but will figure something Keep up the good work 73s

[@Jiminico]

What is the power rating for digital and CW?? tnx

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

It depends on if you have the hybrid mini or hybrid micro transformer. the mini is 250w CW and 40w digital and the micro is 50w CW and 25w digital. See the link in the video description for more detailed specs

[@Aimsport-video]

Would it work with the new SS25?

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

From what I’ve heard from Chameleon, the SS25 is too droopy to be used as a segment for the Tactical Delta Loop. I’m not sure how they will address that.

[@Aimsport-video]

@@KB9VBRAntennas thank you for all you do.

[@forgetyourlife]

I bet it’s only a matter of time until someone tries it with two SS25’s though. A non metallic guy line in the middle of the whips would keep them from bowing for instance.

[@sk8crk]

Cha Cha Cha!

[@johnk23705]

Yes, a youtuber did a test of the Chameleon 5 to 1 transformer. "Survivalcomms" Chameleon Snake Oill video. As you well know, broadband antennas are very lossy. Your first test of the Chameleon was correct and is what to be expected from the Chameleon when the cycle is not near its peak. Overpriced and under performing.

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

Do you have a reference or link that states the losses? I can't verify any of your claims. Searching online the worst I could find is 70% efficiency which which in most instances would hardly be noticeable on an S-meter (for comparison, an EFHW antenna typically is 85% efficient).

[@thebnbaldwin]

You DO NOT need a tuner on 20 meters.

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

Needing a tuner or not could depend on local conditions and how the antenna was set up. I did multiple POTA activations with it over the last couple weeks in different locations and each time my SWR was below 2:1 on 17 meters and higher. And roughly 2.5:1 - 3:1 on 20 and 40 meters.

[@thebnbaldwin]

@@KB9VBRAntennas You stated "20 meters you're gonna need a tuner. 40 80 you're gonna need an antenna tuner." That was an unequivocal statement. Perhaps you should have said something more along the lines of, based on your recent experience, and local conditions, you may need a tuner. I've been using the TDL in the worst soil conditions in Arizona, as have several of my friends, without needing a tuner. Counterpoises help in getting the SWR down. But, we also run the TDL on a 15' Porta-Mast without counterpoise without issue. One friend has his mounted on a patio roof and it's fine on those bands. I am fiercely loyal to Chameleon and they deserve accurate reviews.

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

I get your point, but at the same time, this is kind of nit-picking. That's great that you don't need a tuner. Every time I've deployed this antenna, I have for 20 meters and below. It's probably better to be prepared with a tuner for the antenna, than to be caught portable without one and needing it.

[@ontarget1911]

Everything Chameleon is way overpriced. Get a !Hextenna

[@Chameleon_Antenna]

🤦🏼‍♂

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

I just watched a Hextenna video as others were asking about it. I'm a bit surprised of the low quality of their center unit and skimpy documentation.