Chameleon Antenna CHA MPAS LITE User manual

Modular Portable Antenna
System (MPAS) Lite
Operator’s Manual
Nevada - USA
WWW.CHAMELEONANTENNA.COM
VERSATILE –DEPENDABLE –STEALTH –BUILT TO LAST

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Table of Contents
Introduction ..............................................................................................................................................3
HF Propagation .........................................................................................................................................3
Parts of the Antenna.................................................................................................................................5
Antenna Configurations............................................................................................................................6
End Fed Inverted “V” Configuration .....................................................................................................6
Telescoping Vertical Configuration.......................................................................................................8
Recovery Procedure..................................................................................................................................9
Troubleshooting........................................................................................................................................9
Accessories..............................................................................................................................................10
Specifications ..........................................................................................................................................10
Warranty.................................................................................................................................................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.
LEGO® is a trademark and/or copyright of the LEGO Group. ©2016 the LEGO Group. All rights reserved.
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. Photographs and diagrams in this manual
may vary slightly from the current product due to material substitutions and design changes that do not
significantly affect the form, fit, or function of the product.
!
!

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Introduction
Thank you for purchasing and using the Chameleon AntennaTM High Frequency (HF) Modular Portable Antenna
System Lite (CHA MPAS LITE). The CHA MPAS LITE is designed to be the most versatile, high performance, and rugged
portable / man-packable HF antenna available using the “LEGO® BLOCK” approach, as described by Survival Tech
Nord. The MPAS is a concept that allows the radio operator to configure and deploy the antenna system in a variety
of configurations. The MPAS LITE version offers basic MPAS capability at a lower price for those operators that don’t
need the full capability of the military-style MPAS 2.0. The Chameleon AntennaTM MPAS series is the most popular
modular portable HF antenna system in the world!
The core components of the antenna system, see plate (1), are: a CHA HYBRID-MICRO matching unit and antenna
base, 60 feet of antenna/counterpoise wire, a 17-foot telescoping stainless steel whip (CHA SS17), an in-ground
antenna mount (CHA SPIKE MOUNT), and a coaxial cable with an integrated Radio Frequency Interference (RFI)
choke. Available high-performance options (sold separately) include a counterpoise (radial) kit (CHA COUNTERPOISE
KIT), a versatile clamp-on antenna mount (CHA JAW MOUNT), and a heavy-duty clamp-on antenna mount (CHA
UCM). The components of the CHA MPAS LITE provide a continuum of portability and performance to meet your
communications requirements.
Plate 1. CHA MPAS LITE Components.
The integral broadband impedance matching
network transformer of the CHA HYBRID MICRO
allows broadband antenna tuning. The antenna will
operate continuously from 1.8 –54.0 MHz (including
160m –6m amateur bands) without any adjustment
with a wide range antenna tuner or coupler (when
using the telescoping whip, the performance is
limited below 3.5 MHz). The CHA MPAS LITE is perfect
for Government, Non-Governmental Organizations
(NGO), and Emergency Preparedness and Survival
Communication. It is also the antenna for hams that
enjoy camping, hiking, biking or other types of
outdoor recreation which require communication
gear to be both effective and highly portable. The
CHA MPAS LITE is configurable to facilitate Near-
Vertical Incident Sky wave (NVIS) communication and
is totally waterproof. The CHA MPAS LITE requires a
wide range antenna tuner or coupler on some bands
and f. 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 MPAS
LITE.
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

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operator’s manual, but an understanding of the basic principles will help the operator decide what frequency and
which of the EMCOMM III Portable’s 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.
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.
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.
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 show 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.
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 is 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.

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Parts of the Antenna
The CHA MPAS LITE antenna is comprised of the following components, see plate (2):
Plate 2. CHA MPAS LITE Components.
a. Matching Transformer. The Matching Transformer is a CHA HYBRID MICRO and provides impedance
matching for the CHA MPAS LITE antenna.
b. Line Winder. The Line Winder is used to store the Antenna/Counterpoise Wire and enables rapid
deployment and recovery of the antenna.
c. Antenna Socket. The Antenna Socket is a 3/8” x 24 threaded socket on the top of the Matching
Transformer and is used to attach the Telescoping Whip or Antenna Wire.
d. Counterpoise Connection. The Counterpoise Connection is the red knurled knob, on the side of the Spike
Mount, used to connect the Counterpoise Wire.
e. UHF Socket. The UHF Socket, SO-239, is located on the side of the Matching Transformer and is used to
connect the Coaxial Cable.
f. Antenna/Counterpoise Wire. The Antenna/Counterpoise Wire consist of a 60-foot length of insulated
wire wrapped around the Line Winder. It is used as Antenna Wire in the End Fed Inverted “V”
configuration and as a Counterpoise Wire in the Telescoping Vertical configuration.
g. Telescoping Whip. The Telescoping Whip is a telescoping stainless-steel radiator. It extends to 17 feet
and collapses to 24 inches.
h. Coaxial Cable. The Coaxial Cable is the feedline that connects to the UHF Socket at one end and the Radio
Set at the other.

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i. Spike Mount. The Spike Mount provides the ground mounted base for the antenna.
j. Terminal Lug. The Terminal Lug is located at one end of the Antenna/Counterpoise Wire and used to
connect to the Matching Transformer or Spike Mount.
k. Insulator Rings. There are three Insulator Rings, one at each end of the Antenna Wire and one floating in
the center. They are used to mechanically connect and electrically isolate the Antenna Wire.
l. Shackle. The Shackle is used to mechanically and electrically attach the Antenna Wire to the Matching
Transformer.
m. Carabiner. The Carabiner is used to mechanically connect the Antenna Wire to the Matching Transformer
for strain Relief.
Antenna Configurations
Using the supplied components, the Chameleon AntennaTM CHA MPAS LITE antenna can be deployed into two useful
configurations. They are described in this manual and each has unique operational performance characteristics.
Table (2) can assist the operator to quickly select the most appropriate antenna configuration to meet their
operational requirements.
Configuration
Ground
Short
Medium
Long
Directionality
End Fed Inverted “V”
↓
↕
Bi-directional
Telescoping Vertical
↕
↕
Omni-directional
Table 2. Antenna Configuration Selection.
To use the table, decide which distance column (Ground = 0 to 90 miles, Short = 0 - 300 miles, Medium = 300 –1500
miles, Long > 1500 miles) best matches the distance to the station with whom you need to communicate. Then,
determine if the OWF is in the lower (↓ = 1.8 – 10 MHz) or upper (↑ = 10 – 30 MHz) frequency range. Finally, select
the CHA MPAS LITE configuration with the corresponding symbol in the appropriate distance column. Both CHA
MPAS LITE configurations provide some capability in each distance category, so depending upon the complexity of
your communications network, you may need to select the best overall configuration. The directionality column
indicates the directionality characteristic of the antenna configuration. When using NVIS, all the configurations are
omnidirectional.
End Fed Inverted “V” Configuration
The CHA MPAS LITE, End Fed Inverted “V” configuration, see figure (1), is a short to medium range HF antenna. It
can provide good medium range communication on all HF frequencies and acceptable NVIS propagation below 10
MHz. This configuration is bi-directional broadside to the antenna above 10 MHz and omni-directional below 10
MHz. Improved performance can be obtained using at least one counterpoise from the optional Counterpoise Kit.
Perform the following steps to deploy the End Fed Inverted “V” configuration.

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Figure 1. End Fed Inverted “V” Configuration.
1. Select a site to deploy the CHA MPAS LITE End
Fed Inverted “V” configuration. The best site
would be a mostly clear area, around 45 feet in
length with a 20-foot tall support (such as a
portable mast or tree) in the center.
2. Unwind the Antenna Wire (f) from the Line
Winder (b) and position the floating Insulator
Ring (k) approximately in the center of the
Antenna Wire.
3. Using a Bowline or similar knot, tie the support
line coming from the top of the center support to
the floating Insulator Ring.
4. Using the support line, haul the center of the
Antenna Wire to the top of the center support.
The center of the Antenna Wire should be no
higher than around 20 feet to form the correct
angle of the Inverted “V”.
5. Pace off around 22 feet from the center support
and drive the Spike Mount (i) half way
(approximately eight inches) into the ground.
Use a plastic or rubber tent mallet to avoid
damaging the face of the Spike Mount.
6. Thread the stud at the base of the Matching
Transformer (a) into the socket on top of the
Spike Mount. Tighten by hand until snug.
7. Place the Terminal Lug (j) at the end of the
Antenna Wire over the Antenna Socket (c) on top
of the Matching Transformer and then thread the
Shackle (l) stud through the Terminal Lug and
into the Antenna Socket. Tighten nut.
8. Attach a Carabiner (m) to the Insulator Ring at
the Terminal Lug end of the Antenna Wire.
9. Attach the Carabiner to the Shackle bow. Ensure
the Shackle pin is tight. The assembly should look
like that pictured in plate (3).
Plate 3. Antenna Wire Connections.
10. Attach a short length (around 5 feet) of Paracord
to the Insulating Ring at the far end of the
Antenna Wire using a Bowline or similar knot.
11. Pull the far end of the Antenna Wire to near the
location where it will be attached to the ground.
12. Drive a Tent Stake (not supplied) into the ground
around three feet beyond the end of the Antenna
Wire.

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13. Pull the Antenna Wire tight, but not taut, and
secure the Paracord to the Tent Stake using a
round turn and two half hitches or similar knot.
14. Connect the Coaxial Cable (h) to the UHF Socket
(e) on the Matching Transformer.
15. Connect the Coaxial Cable to the Radio Set.
16. Perform operational test.
Telescoping Vertical Configuration
The CHA MPAS LITE, Telescoping Vertical configuration, see figure (2), is an omnidirectional short to medium range
HF antenna. It will provide good overall performance using skywave and ground wave propagation. This
configuration is extremely quick and easy to setup. Improved performance can be obtained using the optional
Counterpoise Kit; which will create an efficient ground-plane for the vertical antenna. Perform the following steps
to deploy the Telescoping Vertical configuration.
1. Drive the Spike Mount (j) half way
(approximately eight inches) into the ground in
the center of the selected site. Use a plastic or
rubber tent mallet to avoid damaging the face of
the Spike Mount.
2. Thread the base stud on the bottom of the
Matching Transformer (a) into the socket on top
of the Spike Mount. Tighten by hand.
3. Thread the stud at the base of the Telescoping
Whip (g) into the Antenna Socket (c) on top of the
Matching Transformer. Tighten by hand.
4. Starting at the top, carefully extend the
Telescoping Whip (g), one section at a time, until
it is fully extended.
Figure 2. Telescoping Vertical Configuration.

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5. Connect the Terminal Lug (j) at the end of the
Counterpoise Wire (f) to the Counterpoise
Connection (d) on the Spike Mount.
The antenna base should look like that pictured in
plate (4).
6. Unwind around 25 feet of the Counterpoise Wire
from the Line Winder (b).
7. Extend the Counterpoise Wire in any convenient
direction. Lay the Line Winder with unwound
Counterpoise Wire on the ground.
8. Connect the Coaxial Cable Assembly (k) to the
UHF Socket (e) on the Matching Transformer.
9. Connect the Coaxial Cable to the Radio Set.
10. Perform operational test.
Plate 4. Telescoping Vertical Base.
Recovery Procedure
To recover the CHA MPAS LITE antenna, perform the following steps:
1. Disconnect the Coaxial Cable from the radio set.
2. Disconnect the Coaxial Cable from the Matching Transformer.
3. Carefully roll (do not twist) the Coaxial Cable. Secure the rolled cable with a sticky strap and set aside.
4. If used, detach the Telescoping Whip and starting from the bottom, collapse one section at a time until the
Telescoping Whip is completely collapsed.
5. Disconnect the Antenna/Counterpose Wire.
6. Wind the Antenna/Counterpoise Wire onto the Line Winder and secure with attached shock cord.
7. Detach the Matching Transformer.
8. Pull the Spike Mount out of the ground.
9. Remove dirt from antenna components and inspect them for signs of wear.
10. Store components together ready for next antenna deployment.
Troubleshooting
1. Inspect the Antenna/Counterpoise Wire for breakage or signs of strain.
2. Inspect the Telescoping Whip for breakage.
3. Ensure UHF Plug from the Coaxial Cable Assembly is securely connected to the UHF Socket of the Matching
Transformer and Radio Set.
4. Inspect Coaxial Cable Assembly for cuts in insulation or exposed shielding.
5. If still not operational, replace Coaxial Cable Assembly. Most problems with antenna systems are caused by
the coaxial cables and connectors.
6. If still not operational, contact Chameleon AntennaTM at [e-mail] for technical
support, be sure to include details on the antenna configuration, symptoms of the problem, and what steps
you have taken.

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Accessories
The following accessories are available for purchase from Chameleon AntennaTM. Please contact us at
[e-mail] for current prices and availability.
•Counterpoise Kit. The Counterpoise Kit is ideal for portable antenna deployment. The system will create
an efficient ground-plane or counterpoise for the both CHA MPAS LITE configurations. It contains four 25-
foot wire radials secured around plastic wire winders and four steel Tent Stakes.
•CHA JAW Mount. The Chameleon Jaw Mount has been assembled to offer portable antenna versatility for
Chameleon Antenna owners. The mount orientation can easily be changed with a simple 3/16 Allen Key.
•CHA UCM. The Super heavy-duty CHA UCM Universal Clamp Mount, is the first ham radio antenna
mounting system, purposely designed for extreme portable operations. This is a rugged, robust product,
intended to support considerable antenna loads.
Specifications
•Frequency: Amateur Radio Service bands 1.8 MHz through 54.0 MHz (160 - 6m). Performance is limited
below 3.5 MHz when using the telescoping whip.
•Power: 50 W continuous duty cycle (CW, AM, FM, RTTY), 100 W intermittent duty cycle (SSB and SSB-
based digital modes)
•SWR: Subject to frequency and configuration. Typically, less than 3.0:1, except as noted in figure (3). An
antenna tuner or coupler will be required for operation on some Amateur Radio Service Bands.
•Length: 17 ft (telescoping whip), 60 ft (wire).
•Weight: Approximately 4 lbs.
•Personnel Requirements and Setup Time: one operator, approximately 5 minutes
•Far Field plots for the CHA MPAS LITE antenna configurations are shown in figures (4) through (7).
Figure 3. Typical CHA MPAS LITE Measured SWR.

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Figure 4. End Fed Inverted “V” Far 80m Field Plot.
Figure 5. End Fed Inverted “V” 40m Far Field Plot.

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Figure 6. Telescoping Vertical 40m Far Field Plot.
Figure 7. Telescoping Vertical 20m Far Field Plot.
Warranty
Chameleon AntennaTM warrants this antenna 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.
This warranty excludes components that have been damaged or modified by the customer.

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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.