Chameleon Antenna CHA LEFS 4010 User manual

Lightweight End Fed
Half Wave Sloper
(CHA LEFS 4010)
Operator’s Manual
Nevada - USA
WWW.CHAMELEONANTENNA.COM
VERSATILE –DEPENDABLE –STEALTH –BUILT TO LAST

CHA LEFS 4010 Page 2
Table of Contents
Introduction ..............................................................................................................................................3
HF Propagation .........................................................................................................................................3
Parts of the Antenna.................................................................................................................................5
Antenna Configurations............................................................................................................................7
Sloper Installation...................................................................................................................................10
Recovery Procedure................................................................................................................................10
Troubleshooting......................................................................................................................................11
Specifications ..........................................................................................................................................11
Warranty.................................................................................................................................................12
Accessories..............................................................................................................................................12
Chameleon AntennaTM Products............................................................................................................13
References ..............................................................................................................................................13
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.
The photographs and diagrams in this manual may vary slightly from current production units due to
manufacturing changes that do not affect the form, fit, or function of the product.
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 LEFS 4010 Page 3
Introduction
Thank you for purchasing and using the Chameleon AntennaTM Lightweight End Fed Half Wave Sloper (CHA
LEFS 4010). The CHA LEFS 4010 is a four-band no-tuner (seven band with tuner), High Frequency (HF)
antenna for use on the 40, 20, 15, and 10 meter Amateur Radio Service (ham) bands (30, 17, and 12 meters
with a tuner). The combination of the CHA LEFS 4010’s small size, light weight, and popular band coverage
make it ideal for Parks on the Air (POTA), Summits on the Air (SOTA) and other hiking and biking outdoor
adventures. Leave the tuner and SWR meter at home –just pack your radio and the CHA LEFS 4010 and
go activate a park or summit!
Plate 1. CHA LEFS 4010 Antenna.
The CHA LEFS 4010 is designed for outdoor
adventures - the lightweight End Assembly with
an integrated line winder and high-efficiency
impedance matching network transformer,
ultra-thin 20gauge PTFE antenna wire, and
micro-size RG-316 coaxial cable, make the CHA
LEFS 4010 the perfect companion for pocket-
sized QRP (low power) transceivers. Setup is
quick and easy, and the antenna will operate
without a tuner or adjustment on the entire 40,
20, 15, and 10 meter ham bands (30, 17, and 12
meters with a tuner). When you’re ready to hit
the trail, the CHA LEFS 4010 won’t take up much
space in your backpack –it is only 6 ½ inches
long, 3 ¾ inches wide, and weighs only 1.1
pounds. The CHA LEFS 4010 can be used with
a lightweight telescopic fishing or kite pole to
install it as a Sloper and is also configurable to
facilitate Near-Vertical Incident Sky wave (NVIS)
communication.
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 LEFS 4010.
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

CHA LEFS 4010 Page 4
will help the operator decide what frequency and which of the CHA LEFS 4010 configurations 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.
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 multi-hop 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 shows 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.

CHA LEFS 4010 Page 5
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 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.
Parts of the Antenna
The CHA LEFS 4010 is comprised of the following components, see plate (2). The letter references are
used to identify components of the antenna in the detailed installation instructions.
Plate 2. Components of the CHA LEFS 4010 Antenna.
A. End Assembly. The End Assembly is a unitary assembly with the components and sub-components
of the CHA LEFS 4010 antenna and functions as the suspension and feed point of the antenna.
B. Suspension Point. The Suspension Point is the large hole in the top of the End Assembly, which is
used to attach paracord for suspension of the antenna feed point.

CHA LEFS 4010 Page 6
C. EFHW Attachment. The EFHW Attachment is used to connect the Antenna Wire for an End Fed Half
Wave antenna.
D. Antenna Wire. The Antenna Wire is comprised of 63 feet of strong, lightweight 20-gauge wire and a
small loading coil.
E. Insulator Loop. An Insulator Loop (not pictured) is permanently installed on the far end of the
Antenna Wire.
F. EFHW Coaxial Connector. The EFHW Coaxial Connector is located on the bottom of the End
Assembly and is used to connect the Coaxial Cable to the End Fed Half Wave antenna.
G. Coaxial Cable. The Coaxial Cable (not pictured) is 25 feet of RG-316 with an integrated RFI Choke
and BNC connectors on each end. It is used to connect the antenna to the radio set.
H. Carabiner. The Carabiner is used to mechanically attach the Antenna Wire to the End Assembly and
provide strain relief.
I. Terminal Lug. The Terminal Lug is located at the end of the Antenna Wire and is used to connect it
to the End Assembly.
J. Dipole Attachment. The two Dipole Attachments are used to connect operator supplied and
fabricated Antenna Wires when the CHA LEFS 4010 is configured as a Dipole.
K. Dipole Coaxial Connector. The Dipole Coaxial Connector is located on the bottom of the End
Assembly (next to the “EFHW”Coaxial Connector) and is used to connect the Coaxial Cable when
the CHA LEFS 4010 is configured a Dipole.

CHA LEFS 4010 Page 7
Antenna Configurations
There are three basic configurations for the CHA LEFS 4010: End Fed Sloper, End Fed Horizontal, and Half
Wave Dipole.
Sloper Configuration
Figure (1) shows the Sloper configuration, to which the installation instructions and specifications apply.
The Sloper is a short to medium range antenna. The main advantage of the Sloper for portable operation
is that it requires only one end support and is fast and easy to setup. During field use, it can be installed
at a height of around 20 feet and have good performance and enough coaxial cable left to reach the radio
set. The antenna exhibits a little directivity broadside to the antenna on 40 meters and towards the ends
of the antenna on 20 meters and above. A lightweight, 12-15 foot tall, telescopic fishing or kite pole
works well as an ultra-portable mast for wind-swept summits or beaches without trees. In addition to
the components supplied with the CHA LEFS 4010, you may need: a 12-15 foot telescopic fishing or kite
pole, a tent state, and 30 feet of paracord.
Figure 1. CHA LEFS 4010 Sloper Configuration.

CHA LEFS 4010 Page 8
NVIS Configuration
Figure (2) shows the End Fed Horizontal NVIS configuration. By installing the antenna to a height of
around 12-15 feet at both ends, you can enhance NVIS propagation.
You will need a support at both ends of the antenna, such as trees or telescopic fishing or kite poles and
50 feet of paracord.
Figure 2. CHA LEFS 4010 Horizontal NVIS Configuration.

CHA LEFS 4010 Page 9
Dipole Configuration
The CHA LEFS can also be configured as a Half Wave Dipole (or Inverted “V”) antenna, see figure (3).
Figure 3. CHA LEFS 4010 Inverted “V” Dipole Configuration.
In addition to the components supplied with the CHA LEFS 4010, you will need one set of operator
supplied and fabricated Antenna Wires for each band you want to use (see table [2] for calculated
lengths), two insulators, two tent stakes, and 35 feet of paracord. The lengths shown in table (2) are
calculated for the CW/DATA segment of the band, you will likely need to trim the antenna for resonance
using an SWR meter or analyzer. To use the CHA LEFS 4010 as a dipole, connect the set of Antenna
Wires to the wing nut connections on the End Assembly marked “DIPOLE” and connect the Coaxial Cable
to the BNC Coaxial Connector marked “DIPOLE”.
Table 2. CHA LEFS 4010 Dipole Calculated Lengths.
BAND FEET INCHES
40 32 11
30 23 2
20 16 7
17 12 11
15 11 1
12 9 5
10 8 3
WIRE LENGTH

CHA LEFS 4010 Page 10
Sloper Installation
Use the following procedure to install the CHA LEFS 4010 Sloper configuration. Refer to plate (2).
Site Selection and Preparation.
1. Select a site to deploy the CHA LEFS 4010
Sloper configuration. The site must have a
support that will position the End Assembly
at a height of around 15 to 20 feet. If the
right support is not available, any available
support can be used, such as a fence post,
hiking pole, or fishing pole with reduced
performance.
Raise the Antenna.
2. Using a Bowline, or similar knot, attach a
long length (around 25 ft.) of Paracord (not
supplied) to the Suspension Point (B) of the
End Assembly (A).
3. Using a throw weight or some other method,
loop the Paracord over the support.
4. Unwrap the Antenna Wire (D) from the End
Assembly.
5. Clip the Carabiner (H) to the End Assembly
Suspension Point (B) for Antenna Wire strain
relief.
6. Connect the Antenna Wire Terminal Lug (I)
to the End Assembly EFHW Attachment (C).
Tighten wing nut finger tight.
7. Connect one end of the Coaxial Cable to the
End Assembly BNC Coaxial Connector
marked “EFHW” (F).
8. Raise the End Assembly to the desired height
and secure it to the support using a Round
Turn and two Half Hitches, or similar knot.
Finish Installation.
9. Using a Bowline, or similar knot, attach a
short length (around 5 ft.) of Paracord (not
supplied) to the Insulator Loop (E) at the end
of the Antenna Wire.
10. Fully extend the Antenna Wire, allowing
some sag in the wire. Do not make the
Antenna Wire taut. The Antenna Wire is
made from a lightweight 20-gauge wire.
Although it is strong, it is not as strong as
heavier gauge wire. It is very important not
to over-tension the wire, or it may break.
11. Drive a Tent Stake (not supplied) into the
ground around three feet past the end of the
Antenna Wire.
12. Tie the Paracord from the end of the
Antenna Wire to the Tent Stake, using a
round-turn and two half-hitches or similar
knot. Do not make the Antenna Wire taut.
13. Connect the Coaxial Cable to the Radio Set
and perform an operational test.
Recovery Procedure
To recover the CHA LEFS 4010, perform the following steps:
1. Disconnect the Coaxial Cable from the radio set.
2. Lower the End Assembly to the ground.
3. Disconnect the Coaxial Cable from the End Assembly.
4. Carefully roll (do not twist) the Coaxial Cable.
5. Detach the far end of the Antenna Wire.
6. Wrap the Antenna Wire around the End Assembly, as shown in plate (1).
7. If used, wrap the Paracord around the End Assembly.

CHA LEFS 4010 Page 11
8. Remove dirt from antenna components and inspect them for signs of wear.
9. Stored antenna and antenna components in your backpack.
Troubleshooting
1. Inspect the Antenna Wire and Loading Coil for breakage, corrosion, or signs of strain.
2. Ensure the Antenna Wire is securely connected.
3. Ensure the BNC Connector Plug is securely connected.
4. Inspect the Coaxial Cable assembly for cuts in insulation or exposed shielding. Replace if damaged.
5. If still not operational, connect a Standing Wave Ratio (SWR) Power Meter and check SWR.
6. If SWR is greater than 3:1 on specified bands, replace Coaxial Cable. Most problems with antenna
systems are caused by the coaxial cables and connectors.
7. If still not operational, contact Chameleon AntennaTM Technical Support. Explain to them what
specifically does not work correctly about the antenna, the steps you have taken during
troubleshooting, and those results.
Specifications
•Frequency:
o7.0 - 7.3 MHz (40m)
o14.1 - 14.35 MHz (20m)
o21.0 –21.45 MHz (15m)
o28.0 –29.7 MHz (10m)
•SWR (frequency ranges listed above): Less than 2.0:1. The SWR chart is shown in figure (4). The
SWR shown is typical for a Sloper field installation; but installed height and nearby objects can
have a pronounced effect on SWR.
•Power: 100W SSB, 50W CW, and 25W Digital and all other modes
•RF Connection: BNC
•Length: 63 ft
•Weight: approximately 1.1 lbs.
•Personnel Requirements and Setup Time: one operator, around 10 minutes

CHA LEFS 4010 Page 12
Figure 4. SWR by Frequency Graph.
Warranty
The Chameleon AntennaTM Lightweight End Fed Half Wave Sloper (CHA LEFS 4010) is warranted to be
free from defects in materials and workmanship for a period of 12 months from the date of purchase.
To obtain warranty service, return all components of the system to Chameleon Antenna at your
expense. Chameleon Antenna will repair or replace defective components and return the system to you
at no charge. We encourage you to call us for technical support before returning the antenna system.
This warranty excludes components that have been damaged or modified by the customer.
Accessories
Recommended non-supplied accessories:
•Paracord or similar low-stretch synthetic line.
•Tent stakes
•Throwing weight and string.

CHA LEFS 4010 Page 13
Chameleon AntennaTM Products
Please go to http://chameleonantenna.com for information about additional quality antenna products
available for purchase from Chameleon AntennaTM –The Portable Antenna Pioneer.
References
1. Silver, H. Ward (editor), 2013, 2014 ARRL Handbook for Radio Communications, 91st Edition,
American Radio Relay League, Newington, CT.
2. 1987, Tactical Single-Channel Radio Communications Techniques (FM 24-18), Department of the
Army, Washington, DC.
3. Turkes, Gurkan, 1990, Tactical HF Field Expedient Antenna Performance Volume I Thesis, U.S. Naval
Post Graduate School, Monterey, CA.