What is the purpose of a "balun" in antenna systems?

The purpose of a "balun" in antenna systems is to convert between balanced and unbalanced electrical signals. This component is crucial in the design of antennas because many antennas are fed with balanced signals, while most transmission lines are unbalanced. A balun facilitates the connection between these two types of systems, ensuring that the impedance is matched and ultimately improving the efficiency of signal transmission and reception.

Using a balun helps reduce issues such as radiation pattern distortion and improves overall performance by allowing the antenna to function optimally with the feed line. This conversion is essential for avoiding signal loss and maintaining the integrity of the transmitted or received signals, making the balun an integral part of many antenna designs.