Simple Ham Radio Antennas: When to use antenna tuners. Post #253.
Nowadays, the antenna transmatch ("tuner") is an integral part of many amateur radio stations. With this device, a ham can match the output of his/her transceiver with the often unknown impedance of the antenna itself. With a suitable balun (balanced to unbalanced) transformer, it is possible to use one antenna to cover several HF bands, especially if you're facing space restrictions on a small lot or have to operate in "stealth" mode because of HOAs and CC&Rs. This situation applies mostly to the use of 300 ohm tv twin lead and 450 ohm ladder line, which require a balun (1:1 or 4:1) and antenna transmatch to operate as feed lines in a multiband, single antenna system. There are times when you may not have an antenna "tuner" at your disposal, especially if you're operating in portable or emergency situations. In my case, I remove my Drake MN-4 and MFJ 941-E transmatches from the antenna system for routine maintenance several times a...