An EASY Antenna for HF - F-Loop 3.0 | K7SW Ham Radio

See this EASY setup HF Antenna. The Chameleon F-LOOP 3.0 Magnetic Loop.
For portable operating, limited spaces, HOA restricted and other places that can be difficult to setup an HF antenna.
Use the links below to learn more about Chameleon Antennas.
Chameleon Antenna Mag Loop:
geni.us/hpdb CHA F-LOOP 3.0
geni.us/qjsE CHA LRT (Loop Remote Tuner)
73, thanks for watching

[@hamradiowithkevin]

What would a Magnetic Loop Antenna do for you ?

[@DK5ONV]

Ummm...first of all.A way lower RX Grondnoise Level than other Antennas have. 2nd: these Antennas producing a highly effective outgoing TX Signal with just low Power input. They working directional orientated such like Yagi Antennas or rotatable Dipoles do and you can kinda notch out unwanted interfering Noises from local or your close Neighborhood coming in. 3rd: These Antennas are easier to camouflage because of their relatively small Size. Thats why lots of HAM's mostly using them as an Indoor Antenna with qrp Power working the whole World thru the thickest Concret Walls. I am still playing with that Thought to build me a Coax Loop to see how that works after I am done with my other unfinished Projects who waiting to be finished.

[@redeyegooner]

It would solve my problems of limited space in a HMO, plus I wouldnt need a separate antenna for going portable. It would be an all-in-one, out-of-the-box solution for me 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

[@paulshaffer9674]

I had no way to put up a antenna outside. Mine did 15 to 40 very well.

[@geraldcampbell6834]

I have the Chameleon PLoop and it is fantastic I use it from inside my apartment and it works Great from inside! If you live in an apartment or HOA nothing can beat a mag loop!!!

[@tkhorn53]

Exactly, have used a MLA for about 3 years now with over 5K contacts.

[@desertcompound9088]

Professional presentation, good job. I've used both homebrew and commercial loops over the years. They work well as long as you understand the limitations, mainly bandwidth.

[@hamradiowithkevin]

Yes I completely agree

[@1crazynordlander]

I just received my two piece aluminum radiator kit for my 3.0 today. I figured I would watch your video again to see how it goes together. The directions are okay but it’s nice to see how someone else does it. Thanks for the tips!

[@hamradiowithkevin]

Your very welcome, I am glad the video helped.

[@o00scorpion00o]

First time I tried a loop antenna was using the MFJ-935C and 4 meters of 10mm copper pipe, 20 meter band and 20 watts made contact with a chap in Canada from Ireland, I was blown away, this thing was sitting on a patio table !!! 4 meters of copper pipe is probably more efficient than a 2 meter loop and you have to use different size loops for different bands but probably adds to the efficiency, either way a very cool antenna system to experiment with, can take up to 150 watts too. I don't have a chameleon loop but I do have the MPAS 2.0 with CAP HAT and love it, great antenna.

[@hamradiowithkevin]

loops seem to be underrated for what we can get out of them. Thanks for sharing your story. 73

[@paulshaffer9674]

Squash the smaller Loop a little bit. Increases the output. KG7IRJ Ohio

[@blomidon]

I hadn’t thought about laying it on the table to set it up. It’s great for taking to the cabin when it’s too windy and cold to set up an external antenna. Great video. VO1OK

[@hamradiowithkevin]

Thank you Michael.

[@HOAHamRadio]

Thorough and informative. Sufficient objective detail to help someone make an informed decision. Nice.

[@CaptainJack63]

That was my thought exactly!!🙂

[@hamradiowithkevin]

Thank you very much

[@76ersnet58]

great review of the mag loop antenna, I can see this being the perfect antenna for an apartment

[@hamradiowithkevin]

Thanks Jeremy, I can't tell you how much fun it is to bust out a table and drop this into service. Super simple.

[@DK5ONV]

Wohooo-... I could hear my big Radio Buddy Barry, N4WFU from NC-State. How awsome is that? 💯👍👍👍🙋‍♂

[@hamradiowithkevin]

Ha, very cool more to come my friend.

[@jasonriggan3715]

@@hamradiowithkevin yes I just heard my friend Barry on there N4WFU Repeater RR, NC . So Cool !

[@thomashybiske5399]

Best Mag Loop demo on KZbin, thanks for putting it up! K3GM

[@hamradiowithkevin]

Thanks Thomas, I appreciate that.

[@Henfredemars]

I’m glad for this video because I wasn’t sure if something was wrong when my knob was that sensitive. It seems like it’s normal to have an extremely narrow bandwidth and a really sensitive variable capacitor relative to that bandwidth.

[@hamradiowithkevin]

Yes, it can be strange getting used to, tuning is faster once you get the hang of it.

[@johnkershaw9575]

Great video. Thanks for taking the time to film it.

[@hamradiowithkevin]

Your welcome, I am glad you enjoyed it.

[@nvrumi]

Thanks for the well-done review. I bought a PreciseLoop SOTA magloop a couple of years ago. It's been deployed on several SOTA and POTA activations. It is best for running a frequency, although with some practice, you'll figure out where you need to be on the tuning capacitor quickly. It is not very efficient on 40m, but gets better as you work up the bands. It is easy to deploy and does not take up much room. I like them. But they fit into a continuum of antennas for portable ops.

[@hamradiowithkevin]

Your welcome David, yes more antennas means more opportunities for Hams like us that really enjoy operating outdoors. Thanks for the support

[@haramanggapuja]

Ok, now you’ve done it. I’m gonna have to drag my homebrew loop out of the shed & put it on the air next POTA run ;-) 73 de W8IJN

[@randalltom9750]

I’ve always wanted a Mag Loop… i could have bought a nice MFJ at a Hamfest years ago, but didn’t… it seems easy enough, and HiQ seems perfect for qrp. Thanks for the video.

[@hamradiowithkevin]

Your welcome Randall. I hope you get to try a loop one day.

[@briantalley8415]

Nice review - thanks! I'd like to get a mag loop sometime. At the moment, I have no shortage of trees or space so I don't really need one. But having an indoor and/or easily-portable option is appealing.

[@hamradiowithkevin]

Thanks Brian.

[@pcfreak1992]

Just a tip: The KX2 has a "TUNE" feature (press and hold the "XMIT" button to activate) in which it will transmit a continuous CW carrier until you press the button again. This is really handy to tune an antenna or even to just check the SWR. By default it will use the normal output power but you can set a separate (lower) output power level in the settings under "TUN PWR" that's safe to use with a high SWR.

[@hamradiowithkevin]

Yes, your described the kx2 feature correctly. The difference is in this Floop antenna. It is really like having a dipole antenna where you trim the ends of the antenna each time you change frequency. Floops are a totally different animal. There are completely out of tune until you use the tuning know on the antenna to dial it in. With such a small loop it is really amazing how you can get band coverage on so many bands. In the case of this antenna, using the radio tuner will do nothing to help us. It is worth looking at, if you find someone that will let you borrow or use one. 73

[@pcfreak1992]

@@hamradiowithkevin Thank you for your thorough comment! I think you may have misunderstood my comment. The "TUNE" feature is separate from the built-in ATU tuner. It's simply a quick way to send a carrier and will not engage the internal tuner at all. In a nutshell, all it does is temporarily switch to CW and "hold down" a straight key 😄

[@ABikerLife]

Those primary loops could become better by crushing them into an oval, affording more area to couple,, You are welcome Chameleon.. KK5VN

[@CharlesHuse]

From what I have heard about these, if you have it vertical, like in the video, it is directional off the sides. If you put it horizontal, it is omnidirectional.

[@hamradiowithkevin]

It is not very practical to mount a loop horizontally, and having the directionality means you can reduce interference by rotating the antenna. And that can be a good in certain situations.

[@o00scorpion00o]

Forget about antennas, I'm enjoying the blue sky in this video, not like here in Ireland where a total clear blue sky is as rare as hens teeth. It much be wonderful to live in such brightness. When the Sun does come out here It's such a a joyful experience, even if it lasts only a few mins to a few hrs.

[@hamradiowithkevin]

Ireland is a place I will visit one day.😉

[@o00scorpion00o]

@@hamradiowithkevin hopefully you’ll get here :-)

[@jbird4h30]

Awesome. Very helpful video, in general....and great review/demo video to boot. Thank you, Sir.👍

[@Danybad1972]

Hi Kevin! Another nice video ! I like your way, you make your thing. Thank you and I look fwd to see next ones ... greetings from Czech Republic OK2BAD ... I'm not "that" BAD... 😊 73's !!!

[@hamradiowithkevin]

Thank you Dan, I appreciate your support. 73 from Utah

[@temporarilyoffline]

Looks like a pretty compact, but still usable antenna. A good ham really wants Hi-Q, but its more of a pain than Lo-Q... everything is a compromise ;-)

[@hamradiowithkevin]

Absolutely, just getting up in the morning without coffee is a compromise . I am not telling you anything new, having options is a great part of this hobby.

[@VA7AYG]

Thanks for the video, I didn’t realize these have terrible efficiency when we go higher than 15m. 4% for 40m according to chameleon themselves…

[@Chameleon_Antenna]

5.289% with the basic LMR-400 coax / 13.518% with the Booster Kit / 14.955% with the aluminum radiator on 40M which is better than any portable vertical antenna!

[@Henfredemars]

True but you’re talking 40 on a small portable antenna. Given those parameters, how efficient do we expect to be?

[@FreeStuffGuy916]

Another great video, Kevin. That's a clever idea of using a PVC tee to get the proper spacing between the loops. It looks like it not only adds spacing but supports the parts as well. 73 de N6EF.

[@hamradiowithkevin]

Thanks Bill, 73

[@wdfnds]

Is that a metal picnic table that you have that antenna setup on?

[@garylanders1470]

Very nicely done.

[@Sv1dkn]

Very well presented

[@hamradiowithkevin]

Thank you!

[@genepierson1728]

Thanks for sharing! Great video. Question: Is it safe to operate sitting right behind or beside the antenna? I mean RF exposure for the operator.

[@hamradiowithkevin]

Thanks Gene, great question. The ARRL suggests that we calculate our RF exposure by using the figures they describe. Since we all have different needs, I would suggest doing those calculations for you. I have determined for my operating that I am within limits. I wish I could provide a more precise answer for you.

[@davidharmer9398]

There should be a mention of watching and warning others who may be curious and come too close in a public situation....

[@GJ0KYZ]

Excellent video, very informative. Thanks and 73 de GJ0KYZ.

[@hamradiowithkevin]

Our pleasure!

[@1crazynordlander]

I have this antenna without the aluminum radiator. I used it once and put it back in the bag. I want to build on this kit by adding the aluminum radiator but I am only finding the one piece aluminum radiator on Chameleon’s website. I want to know is there enough difference in performance between the coax radiator to justify the price to add the aluminum radiator? I agree with you about Chameleon’s manual. Would a piece of quarter inch thick plastic act as a suitable insulator between the coupling loop and the aluminum radiator?

[@hamradiowithkevin]

The efficiency charts show it is a pretty close call between the two, over time I will be able to tell better. It is my understanding that the manual is being reviewed. I have built a plastic separator from sprinkler pipe which I did not mention but does show up in the video a couple times. A followup video will have more about that.

[@KU9L]

My QRO friends tell me not to bother with this antenna as 0.333 - 2 watts won't be enough to activate POTA, but yet my heart and my head thinks it is a cool option for No trees, No stakes, and no antenna supports for those empty WMA properties not yet developed for picnic tables and shelters, etc. I think my QRO friends are wrong! I still plan to use EFHW antennas and verticals I am building, but it sure is great to have alternatives! 72 es 73, Davey - KU9L

[@hamradiowithkevin]

This antenna will handle 25 watts SSB. You would be surprised how fun it really is.

[@KU9L]

@@hamradiowithkevin It looks like a lot of fun!!! Thanks, hope to see one at HamCation!

[@thomashybiske5399]

Question: The loop is sitting on what appears to be an aluminum top park bench. Isn't that a no-no, or are we concerned about ferrous materials only? How about tripods with aluminum legs? Thanks!

[@hamradiowithkevin]

Great question, I been using that Loop on both Tripod and Tables, metal and wood benches. If there is interaction, it has been minimal and not noticeable to me while operating. It is really nice how simple it is to setup and use for quick operations.

[@Chameleon_Antenna]

It won't influence the radiation that much! Depending of the aluminum top kind and/or dimensions, you might have some issues tuning at some frequencies but I personally never had any issues while operating on metallic surfaces.

[@DK5ONV]

Absolutely beautiful Video, Kevin! There's something about them Loop Antennas. Happy Sunday into UT-State. 73 de YFUG 💯🙋‍♂

[@hamradiowithkevin]

Super to hear from you UG, and thank you 🙏

[@tonypoloney8721]

Nice video. Is the tuning method the same for SWL?

[@hamradiowithkevin]

Yes, but less critical since you are not transmitting.

[@Kody10538]

Not sure how to send a carrier. I'm used to using resonant antennas and tuners just in case. How do I send a carrier with this? I.e with an ft817 or kx2

[@hamradiowithkevin]

Kody, check out my video on using the loop, I show you exactly how to do it and I use a KX2 and 857d

[@pepe01310]

Great video Sir. Can I ask , what is the tripod you use for your set up??

[@hamradiowithkevin]

Yes, the Tripod is a Bogen Manfrotto 3011 Tripod with 3126 Fluid Head, I looked one up on ebay and as of today, the cost was $89. Can not find them new anymore. Hope that helps.

[@pepe01310]

Thanks

[@ATOMSHAMRADIO]

Nice antenna 💯👍⚛

[@hamradiowithkevin]

Thanks Jason , 73

[@ATOMSHAMRADIO]

Your welcome wish i had one of those antennas i love to show it on my page you lucky duck 73. :)

[@la5984]

Can I used for shortwave

[@hamradiowithkevin]

Shortwave listening ? Yes, absolutely !

[@TheFretman2]

Nice vid!

[@brianfields4479]

Love a loop, but for 100w.

[@hamradiowithkevin]

Agreed, 100w would be nice. I would want remote tuning to keep the antenna farther from me. I am thinking too much RF exposure 2 to 3 feet away from me with 100w.

[@bassangler73]

Thanks for a good review...Do you think it would make the antenna better to make the loop out of copper pipe?

[@hamradiowithkevin]

Definitely would be a fun project. I would not want a copper one for my portable use personally. it would get damaged to easily. For a more permanent setup it could be good.

[@bassangler73]

@@hamradiowithkevin thanks!! Yes portable would be cumbersome but semi permanent may be a good project to try

[@joecraft4409]

Good review. Keeping the explanation simple was the key. Set up is pretty simple, i think the assembly part about keeping the aluminum loo 1/4" off the transmit coil is what most will miss in the setup. I think a bit more focused tuning for reception and transmit woould be would be a good thing to cover (as "Part 2) of this review. #79 KI5IQE

[@hamradiowithkevin]

Thanks Joe, I will add your ideas to a followup video.

[@joecraft4409]

Thanks. I've not used a loop (yet) I think the tuning is what scares ham's off and they don't try a loop style antenna. I'm one of those, call it "unfamiliar" or afraid to buy something one doesn't understand and fail at the start and it becomes a dust collector. This is what Elmers are for right? Lol KI5IQE

[@johndeandr]

Can this antenna tune to the 30 meter aprs frequency?

[@hamradiowithkevin]

This antenna will tune 30 meters. The APRS frequency in North America is 144.39. Hope this helps.

[@BlackHamRadioUniversity]

Yeah but at 25w or less we wont get much contacts or DX contacts

[@hamradiowithkevin]

I have talked to New Zealand on 10w with my kx2 a number of times. There are plenty opportunities for success on low power in my opinion.

[@BlackHamRadioUniversity]

@@hamradiowithkevin Gotcha. Okay maybe I will try it. Thanks

[@farhanisgmail]

Coupon code does not work anymore

[@hamradiowithkevin]

Thank you for trying to use the code. I was told the codes are only good for 30 days sadly.

[@robertkeller9828]

$500 plus bux? I'll stick with my wire and balun..

[@carllavoie3804]

With a magnetic loop I can operate 20M, 40M and 80M from a living room or kitchen coffee table. A little bit harder with a wire and balun.

[@Ei2iP]

@@carllavoie3804 and are you aware of operating so close to an antenna, isnt here a minimum distance and power level?

[@ronangsr]

Never sit close to loop even at 5w unless you want to go blind..

[@user-mt1dr1gl1r]

听不懂

[@hamradiowithkevin]

This is a ham radio antenna

[@martinryan5069]

Why are loops a rip off they don't cost that much to build those in the know build their own for a few dollars not hundreds the builders charge I'm all for profit but not extortion

[@MidlifeRenaissanceMan]

A good chunk of the cost is the tuning capacitor. You can make a loop that works a treat with some left over RG6 coax with a with a stub of coax that you use as a cap. You’re kind of on a fixed frequency, but it gets you on the air almost for free I’ve made motorised tuning capacitors for different mag loop designs. Flash over has been a challenge, but I managed to get one that will take a dollar of CW (100W) without catching fire There is a bit of effort involved in building a capacitor, as well as finding a coupling method that works.

[@PugHearts]

Just ordered the PLUS model. What tripod are you using? I want something sturdy that is portable. Are you happy with the one you are using? Richard W4/G7EIX

[@hamradiowithkevin]

Richard, that tripod is awesome. It is hard to find though. Check the model number in the description and you will need to look on Ebay I think.