Inspect before retuning: The CHA CFM-34 puts a wire antenna more than 34 feet above the site while collapsing to 23 1/2 inches. At 2 lb 9 oz, it gives portable, HOA, and field operators practical height without committing the property or vehicle to a permanent tower.
After every deployment
- Lower sections from the bottom upward.
- Clean and dry every section before storage.
- Inspect the base stud, collars, tip ring, and carbon-fiber tubes for damage or contamination.
- Stop using any section that slips, cracks, splinters, or no longer locks predictably.
When something moves or the SWR changes
- Stop transmitting and make the structure safe.
- Inspect the base and work upward through every loaded interface.
- Correct mechanical movement, moisture, damage, and feed-line strain before changing antenna tuning.
- Rebuild the documented geometry and restart at low power.
Do not return to service
- Reduce height or lower the system when wind or wire tension makes the mast unstable.
- Stay within the 1 lb published load.
- Do not erect or lower the mast without controlling every attached wire and feed line.
Use the current CHA CFM-34 instructions.
