The CHA BLANK is a foundational and highly adaptable component within Chameleon Antenna's portable antenna systems, providing versatility by supporting the CHA SS58, CHA SS17, and CHA SS25 whips. These options enable users to choose the best configuration for their needs, from compact setups to extended-range solutions.
Compatible Whips and Their Advantages
- CHA SS58
- Size: 58 inches (approximately 4.8 feet), collapsible stainless steel whip.
- Usage: Ideal for operators needing a shorter, lightweight antenna option. Its size makes it suitable for more compact setups where portability and quick deployment are critical, while still providing effective HF operation.
- Frequency Range: Supports multiple bands within the HF range, and works well with the CHA M-COIL for extending frequency coverage. This whip is especially beneficial in environments where a full-sized whip may be challenging to use, like dense vegetation or urban areas with space limitations.
- CHA SS17
- Size: 17 feet, telescopic stainless steel whip.
- Usage: Suitable for field operations where a longer whip can enhance communication range and overall efficiency. The SS17’s length allows it to resonate efficiently from approximately 13.8 MHz to 117 MHz, covering popular amateur radio bands from 20-6 meters when fully extended.
- Frequency Range: The SS17 works effectively on the 20-10 meter bands without additional loading coils, and it can be adjusted with a Medium Loading Coil to support 30 and 40 meters, giving it added flexibility for single-band operation.
- CHA SS25
- Size: 25 feet, telescopic stainless steel whip.
- Usage: The SS25 is ideal for operators seeking an extended reach, as its length provides a stronger signal and broader operational range. This whip is particularly beneficial for applications requiring improved propagation, such as emergency communications or operating in rural or isolated areas where maximizing range is essential.
- Frequency Range: Designed for enhanced multi-band performance and offers an efficient radiation pattern across HF frequencies. When paired with the CHA BLANK and other compatible MPAS components, the SS25 whip can be adjusted to cover various bands with minimal tuning, which is advantageous for users who need broad band coverage.
CHA BLANK Features and Integration
3/8" x 24 Threaded Connection
The CHA BLANK’s threaded connection enables secure attachment of compatible whips like the SS58, SS17, and SS25, ensuring a stable and reliable setup in any configuration.
Coaxial Adapter Options
Converts to either an SO-239 or BNC connection, allowing easy integration with different types of coaxial cables and RF equipment.
Base and Radial Support
When combined with the CHA PUCK HUB, the CHA BLANK supports up to six radials using Banana Jacks. Radials enhance the antenna’s efficiency by completing the ground circuit for unbalanced antenna designs like vertical whips, improving SWR and overall performance.
Benefits of Using the CHA BLANK with Each Whip
Versatile Configuration Options
Depending on the whip used, the CHA BLANK allows operators to tailor their setup for various band conditions and operating environments. For instance, using the CHA SS17 and CHA M-COIL, operators can cover the 30 and 40 meter bands, ideal for longer-distance HF communication. The shorter SS58 provides a more compact option while still performing well on upper HF bands.
Enhanced Portability
The CHA BLANK and compatible whips offer quick setup and breakdown, making them suitable for operators who frequently move locations or need a lightweight, transportable solution.
Optimal SWR Tuning
The CHA BLANK enables precise tuning through whip adjustments and radial length modifications, ensuring a low SWR across the chosen operating band. This is particularly useful for portable operations where site conditions, nearby objects, and ground conductivity might affect resonance.
Example Setups with the CHA BLANK
Compact Setup with CHA SS58:
Ideal for short-range HF communication on higher bands like 20, 15, and 10 meters.
The SS58 is compact and easy to deploy, making it suitable for fast setups in environments where space is limited.
Extended Coverage with CHA SS17 and Loading Coil:
This setup supports a broader frequency range, enabling operation on 30 and 40 meters by adding the Medium Loading Coil.
The SS17’s length helps achieve stronger signal strength, making it suitable for moderate-range HF contacts.
Maximized Range with CHA SS25:
The 25-foot SS25 whip provides the highest efficiency and longest-range capabilities for the CHA BV configuration.
This setup is recommended for users who need reliable, long-distance communication or for emergency response scenarios where maximizing signal strength is crucial.
In summary, the CHA BLANK combined with compatible whips like the SS58, SS17, and SS25 forms a highly adaptable system suitable for a range of HF band applications, from compact, urban-friendly setups to extended-range configurations. This modular design enables users to tailor their antenna system based on mission requirements and operational conditions.
