CHAMELEON CHA PRV - Portable Resonant Vertical HF Antenna
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 7 ก.พ. 2025
- Here we take a look at the CHA PRV from Chameleon. With it's fantastic build quality and design, how well does it perform on the bands?
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What an extremely well put together video. The PRV looks like another superbly engineered product from the chameleon stable. I’m an ex military aircraft engineer by trade and can appreciate the machining time that has been sunk into this. The equipment used to produce a product of this calibre costs thousands, it’s not expensive - it’s value for money.
Old school high quality American engineering. Never cheap but beautifully built to do the job simply, reliably and with longevity. If only all thngs were done this way still.
Thank you for understanding! Those are made in one of our associate CNC shop in California! Most people have absolutely no understanding of the level of manufacturing involved here because the all buy from China!
I have a very similar of a design antenna. I have been known to be a klutz at times, but luckily I've never had the bad experience of having the antenna fall and break a telescoping antenna, which is then generally speaking "unusable", at least for the original purpose. Those tent stakes could come up awfully easy with a gusty wind tugging at the stake when operating portable in the outdoors.
I Like the look of it THEN I seen the price! Think I'll pass :)
Ouch , yep see what you mean
Hi there, let me share a bit about Chameleon Antenna from my perspective. I'm proud to say that I'm part of a company that creates top-notch products, and what sets us apart is our commitment to quality that goes above and beyond.
First and foremost, we take immense pride in being a 100% made-in-the-United-States brand. In an industry where many opt for cost-cutting measures by outsourcing production to China, we have chosen a different path. Yes, quality manufacturing is more expensive, but we firmly believe that the end result speaks for itself.
Our antennas are not just products; they're a testament to the dedication and craftsmanship that goes into every step of the manufacturing process. From the initial design to the final touches, we ensure that each component is meticulously crafted to meet the highest standards. We don't compromise on quality because we understand the importance of reliable and high-performance antennas, especially in a market flooded with alternatives that may not stand the test of time.
As you explore our products, you'll notice a level of assembly precision that is second to none. We don't just put parts together; we meticulously assemble each product to ensure optimal performance. The assembly process is a crucial part of what makes our antennas exceptional, and we spare no effort in getting it right.
When it comes to performance, our antennas speak volumes. We believe in providing our customers with a level of performance that exceeds expectations. Whether you're a seasoned professional or an enthusiast, you'll find that our antennas deliver on their promises, providing reliable and consistent performance when you need it most.
And let's not forget about the finish. The attention to detail in the finishing touches of our products is a reflection of our commitment to excellence. We want our customers to not only experience top-tier performance but also take pride in owning a product that is aesthetically pleasing and built to last.
Now, it's essential to note that our high-quality products may not be for everyone. We understand that there are budget considerations, and our commitment to quality does come with a premium. However, for those who appreciate the difference that quality makes, who understand the value of a product that stands out in terms of both performance and craftsmanship, we believe that our antennas are worth every penny.
In a market saturated with options, we stand tall as a beacon of quality, proudly made in the United States. We invite you to experience the Chameleon Antenna difference - where excellence is not just a goal, but a standard we uphold in every product we create.
You may see your antenna as a work of art, and some might even agree. But especially in these economic conditions, anything over US$200 is just wishful thinking for a mass market product. @@Chameleon_Antenna
@@MrRobertSpearsJr I wanted to take a moment to clarify the positioning of Chameleon Antenna in the amateur radio market.
Chameleon Antenna is not focused on catering to the mass market, and we don't aim to compete with cheap, low-value products from other regions, such as China. Instead, our emphasis is on providing high-quality, performance-oriented amateur radio products that are manufactured in the United States.
We understand that there are lower-cost alternatives available, particularly from other manufacturers in different parts of the world. However, we firmly believe that when it comes to amateur radio equipment, there's a significant difference in both manufacturing quality and performance when you invest in U.S.-made products.
Quality and performance come at a price, but this cost is justified for individuals who truly understand and appreciate the value that Chameleon Antenna products bring to the table. We take pride in the craftsmanship and reliability of our products, and we believe that enthusiasts who prioritize these qualities will find our offerings well worth the investment.
As an example, I'd like to highlight our CHA OCF40 antenna, which is available starting at $99. This versatile antenna covers four bands without the need for a tuner, providing an excellent balance between affordability and performance. It's a testament to our commitment to offering high-quality products at varying price points to cater to the diverse needs of the amateur radio community.
If you have any questions or would like more information about our products, feel free to reach out. We appreciate your understanding and support of Chameleon Antenna.
You should be able to homebrew something similar. Might not be as good of quality as this though.
Matt, do you know if you were to switch the antenna for a SS17 or the newer SS25 antenna would they work with that coil?
Merci pour cette magnifique vidéo
Je peux savoir quelle d'ongle sdr vous utilisez pour faire de l'écoute merci
73 🎉🎉🎉
Reminds me very much of the ATAS-25 don’t it? I wonder where they got the idea, huh?
Fabulous video and modulation MAT, was very confused, yes or no?. you sorted it for me. Also happy about the 500 Watts power handling if need be.! De VU2UCR, Hari.
You're welcome :-)
Beautiful video. W4SSM
Thank you! 🙏
Great video
Thanks for doing this video…. I’ve been looking at getting this antenna. 73, KC2KNA
No problem 👍
Is this roof top mountable with counterpoises
Nice video ! TKS
What is that software application?
What software are you using?
Nice video as usual - well done. For the SOTA kit - bummer there is not a BNC option - most all SOTA rigs have BNC ports.
BNC adapters can be found online at affordable prices!
BNC option will be available soon.
What are you transmitting with? Is the RX the SDR UNO?
I was using the Hermes Lite 2 and the amplifier I showed in my last video to this one.
Thanks where did you get the Hermes Lite 2 ?😊
nice antenna but my wallet is to small to buy one
Hi Mat, have you had the need to lower the length of the whip or just adjusting the coil for multibands?
Just adjust the coil according to the manual.
What SDR are you using to transmit Mat?
73 de Luis, HB9HJU
It was the Hermes Lite 2 with the little amp that I showed in my last video about the PA50+
Click link, check price, jaw drops. 😱😱😱
We’re about to have huge 25% OFF sale starting the 22nd of November 2023. You might want to take advantage of it.
C'mon guys.....just build your own antennas. Stop thinking these gizmos are somehow superior. You can work the world with 50 watts and a piece of wire.
Choosing the right antenna for HF operations is crucial to ensure effective communication. While wire antennas are widely used and can be very effective, there are situations where they may not be the most suitable option.
Space Limitations:
Wire antennas, especially for lower frequencies, require a significant amount of space. Not everyone has the luxury of a large backyard or the ability to set up a long wire antenna in a straight line.
In urban environments or areas with limited space, it can be challenging to find a suitable location for a wire antenna that meets the length requirements for certain HF bands.
Frequency Coverage:
Wire antennas are typically designed for specific frequency ranges. If you want to cover a broader range of frequencies or operate on multiple bands, you may need a more versatile solution.
Short loaded vertical HF antennas can be tuned to cover multiple bands, offering a more flexible option for operators who want to explore different frequencies without changing antennas.
Ease of Installation:
Wire antennas often require extensive support structures, such as tall masts or multiple supports, for proper installation. This can be cumbersome and time-consuming, especially in adverse weather conditions.
Short loaded vertical antennas are generally more compact and easier to install. They can be mounted on shorter masts or attached to existing structures, making them suitable for locations where space or support structures are limited.
Performance in Restricted Spaces:
In some situations, such as apartments or areas with strict zoning restrictions, it may be difficult to install a long wire antenna. A short loaded vertical antenna can provide a viable alternative for operators in restricted spaces, allowing them to enjoy HF communication without violating local regulations.
In summary, while wire antennas have their merits, they may not always be the most practical choice, especially in environments with space constraints or regulatory limitations. A short loaded vertical HF antenna offers a compact and versatile solution, making it easier for amateur radio operators to enjoy HF communication in a variety of settings.
Keep experimenting and exploring the possibilities of amateur radio!
Hear hear
Who needs 50w, I can do it with 5w cw and a home made dipole.
@@briand9513 have you tried to setup your dipole in the desert, mall parking lot, 5th floor condo, or at a POTA where it’s illegal to out wire in the trees?
$674.00!
Quality and performance aren’t cheap! You won’t find anything of that level at that price point made in the USA! It’s not from China made with substandard tolerances, craftsmanship or materials!
Way to far overpriced
The difference in material choice for the CHA MCC (Multi Configuration Coil) can significantly impact its price and performance. In this case, one of the reasons for the higher price of CHA MCC is the selection of Delrin as the material for the loading coil core, as opposed to PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) Schedule 40 pipe commonly used by competitors.
One crucial factor differentiating Delrin from PVC is their respective melting points. Delrin, a high-performance engineering plastic, has a significantly higher melting point compared to PVC Schedule 40. Delrin typically has a melting point in the range of 175-180°C (347-356°F), while PVC Schedule 40 has a lower melting point, typically around 100°C (212°F). This means that Delrin can withstand higher temperatures without deforming or melting.
The choice of Delrin allows the CHA MCC to handle higher RF (Radio Frequency) power, such as 100W, without the risk of melting. This is a crucial consideration in products designed for radio communication applications where users may need to transmit at higher power levels. In contrast, products using PVC Schedule 40 may face issues like melting when subjected to the same power levels, leading to potential damage and reduced performance.
However, using Delrin comes with its own challenges, such as the need for special tooling for processing. Delrin is a tough and durable material, and machining it requires precision and specialized equipment. In response to this requirement, the company invested in several CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machines. CNC machines provide a high level of accuracy and repeatability in manufacturing processes, allowing for the precise and efficient production of CHA MCC in large quantities.
In summary, the higher price of the CHA MCC can be attributed to the careful selection of materials, with Delrin chosen for its superior mechanical and electrical properties, especially its higher melting point. The investment in CNC machines further ensures the precise and consistent manufacturing of the product, supporting its performance under demanding conditions.
Shocking overpriced. ☹
Those aren’t made in China from underpaid workers with substandard materials, tolerances and craftsmanship. They’re all made in the USA with USA materials from qualified USA workers!
Here's me thinking only the Chinese did copies. This looks like a direct copy of a super antenna the FG1. Shame on Cameleon
First Amateur Type Variable Coil Antennas was before Super Antenna... @ 1991 W6AAQ(SK)
They added a motor drive to become a Screwdriver Antenna, Nolt Ltd(?)
🤡