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Chameleon Knowledge Base · The Complete Online HF Antenna Handbook

What Is a Folded Dipole?

Learn what a folded dipole is, how it differs from a standard dipole, and why it is commonly used in broadband antenna systems.

Getting Started HF Fundamentals Reviewed 2026-07-14
Short Answer: Learn what a folded dipole is, how it differs from a standard dipole, and why it is commonly used in broadband antenna systems.

Explanation

Overview A folded dipole is a balanced antenna consisting of two parallel conductors connected together at both ends and fed at the center of one conductor. Compared to a conventional dipole, a folded dipole has a higher feed-point impedance and wider operating bandwidth. Typical Characteristics Balanced antenna. Broad bandwidth. Approximately 300-ohm feed-point impedance. Often used with a 4:1 balun. Applications Broadband communications. Television antennas. Military antennas. Commercial communications. Applied to Chameleon Products Although most Chameleon products use other antenna architectures, understanding folded dipoles provides valuable background when comparing broadband antenna designs. Related Articles What Is a Dipole? What Is a Balun? What Is Feed-Point Impedance? Related Products CHA B3D

The exact result depends on the complete station: frequency, geometry, feed line, matching network, return-current path, environment, operating power, and the reference plane of any measurement. A low SWR establishes an impedance relationship at that point; it does not by itself prove efficiency, radiation pattern, compatibility, or safety.

What to Verify

  • Use the newest official product guide or primary service documentation.
  • Confirm the exact model, revision, components, configuration, and operating conditions.
  • Begin tests at low power and change one variable at a time.
  • Do not infer compatibility from connector or thread fit.

Learn Next

  • Antenna Selection: A Mission-First Decision Guide
  • Engineering Design Tradeoffs in Portable HF Antennas
  • Antenna Measurement Reference Planes
  • Understanding Common-Mode Current

Source note: Independently synthesized with reference to The ARRL Handbook for Radio Communications, 99th edition (2022), and The ARRL Antenna Book for Radio Communications, 24th edition (2019). Verify changing regulations, services, software, specifications, availability, and safety requirements against current primary sources.