Chameleon Antenna
Chameleon Antenna CHA TDL NO COAX MICRO
Best portable antenna for field radio operators needing rapid deployment.
The Chameleon Antenna CHA TDL NO COAX MICRO is a portable Tactical Delta Loop antenna system engineered for rapid deployment in field operations. It operates across amateur radio bands from 3.5 to 54.0 MHz, offering improved efficiency and noise reduction. This adaptable antenna can be configured as an inverted Delta Loop or a ground-mounted vertical. Setup is swift, typically completed in about five minutes by a single operator. The comprehensive system includes the CHA HYBRID-MICRO unit, two 17-foot telescoping whips, a 25-foot loop wire, and a ground spike mount for versatile installation.
$409.95
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
483
/ 1314
#483 in Antennas
Price vs Category Average
+40%
Above average
Frequency Range
3.554.0806
/ to MHz (M - M)
Who it's for
- Field operators needing quick setup for POTA or SOTA activations
- Operators wanting multi-band access without constant manual antenna tuning
- Urban dwellers struggling with high levels of local electromagnetic interference
Who should skip it
- DX chasers requiring maximum signal strength for long-distance contacts
- High-power enthusiasts needing to transmit beyond QRP power levels
- Budget-conscious hobbyists seeking the most efficient performance per dollar
Performance breakdown
Deployment Speed
Single-operator setup is remarkably fast for a multi-configuration antenna system.
Portability
Compact design makes it an ideal companion for field operations and hiking.
Versatility
Seamlessly switches between loop and vertical configurations for varied propagation needs.
Frequency Agility
Broad coverage from 80M to 6M handles most amateur radio requirements.
Build Durability
Stainless steel and fiberglass components withstand the rigors of outdoor use.
Power Handling
Limited to 100 watts, prioritizing lightweight efficiency over high-power transmission.
Key Specs
Frequency Range
3.5 to 54.0 MHz (80M - 6M)
Maximum Power Rating
100 Watts SSB Phone
Antenna Type
Tactical Delta Loop (TDL)
Material
Fiberglass, Stainless Steel (whips)
Mounting Configuration
3/8-24 Thread
Mounting Type
Outdoor, Ground spike mount included
Power Rating (CW/Digital)
25 Watts
Features
- Portable HF antenna for quick setup
- Small footprint for limited space
- Configurable as Delta Loop or vertical
- Increased efficiency over standard verticals
- Supports NVIS propagation
- Fast setup in about 5 minutes
- Includes mounting hardware
What customers say
This antenna earns high praise within the portable and stealth radio community for its exceptional design. Users consistently highlight the incredibly small size and robust, military grade construction, confirming its true micro capability. The main draw is the unparalleled ease of deployment, offering a true grab and go solution by eliminating bulky coax runs for short connections. While acknowledging the inherent efficiency trade-off compared to larger dipoles, operators report satisfactory performance across multiple bands when paired with a good tuner. The premium quality and unique utility for minimal footprint operations justify the initial investment for enthusiasts prioritizing rapid setup and discretion.
Know before you buy
A single operator can typically deploy the system in about five minutes. The design is optimized for rapid field operations where speed and ease of assembly are critical.
Yes, the antenna is highly versatile. Its configuration as a Delta Loop allows for effective NVIS (Near Vertical Incidence Skywave) propagation, while its ability to be set up as a vertical provides better performance for long-distance contacts.
The CHA TDL is rated for a maximum of 100 Watts for SSB phone operations. For CW and digital modes, the power limit is 25 Watts to ensure the longevity of the components.
The kit includes the CHA HYBRID-MICRO unit, two 17-foot telescoping whips, a 25-foot loop wire, and a ground spike mount. Please note that this specific model does not include coaxial cable, so you will need to provide your own.
The Delta Loop configuration generally offers improved efficiency and better noise reduction compared to a standard vertical antenna. This makes it a strong choice for operating in electrically noisy environments or where signal clarity is a priority.
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