This Product Selection Guide contains information to help select products in the Balun category on DigiKey.com
A Balun is a device designed to connect two circuits by converting or unconverting balanced and unbalanced loads. The characteristics are frequency range, impedance -unbalanced/balanced, phase difference, insertion loss, and return loss. The frequency range is from 10kHz to 23.6GHz with an impedance from 1:1 to 100/100Ohm and a phase difference from -155° ±15° to 195°.
SelectionCharacteristics
Specifications to determine if a Balun may be right for your application.
Frequency Range: It is important to select a balun that will operate in the intended range. If the balun is operating outside of its intended range degredation in performance and signal distortion or loss could present itself.
The two parameters of frequency range and attenuation combine for other critical specifications: attenuation deviation or flatness across the frequency range, and across operating temperature. Flatness is typically on the order of 0.25 dB or 0.5 dB and is generally harder to maintain at higher frequencies.
Impedance – Unbalanced/Balanced: Nominal characteristic impedances or impedance ratio of the balanced and unbalanced ports of the balun.
Phase Difference: A balun needs to maintain an appropriate phase difference to make sure the output achieves optimal performance. Different applications have different requirements.
Insertion Loss (Max): A measure of power losses incurred by signals passing through a device, under manufacturer-defined test conditions.
Return Loss (Min): Characterizes signal losses due to transmission line reflections.
Package/Case: Indicates the type of protective case used on an electronic component to allow easy handling, installation, and protection. This selection was determined to be the closest industry standard applicable to the suppliers device packaging. Typically it is best to check the actual dimensions from the datasheet rather than depend on this terminology when designing your circuit.
Mounting Type: Indicates how the device is attached.
ProductExamples
| Digi-Key Part Number | 445-174610-2-ND | |
| Manufacturer | TDK Corporation | |
| Manufacturer Product Number | DEA102500LT-9052A1 | |
| Description | BALUN 2.3GHZ-2.5GHZ 0402 | |
| Datasheet | Click Here |
| Digi-Key Part Number | 1465-1121-ND | |
| Manufacturer | MACOM Technology Solutions | |
| Manufacturer Product Number | TP-101-PIN | |
| Description | BALUN 500KHZ-1.5GHZ 50/50 6FLTPK | |
| Datasheet | Click Here |
| Digi-Key Part Number | 1902-HFB075100B-ND | |
| Manufacturer | iNRCORE, LLC | |
| Manufacturer Product Number | HFB075100B | |
| Description | BALUN ADAPT 75 TO 100 OHM B PBC | |
| Datasheet | Click Here |
Schematic Symbol
MediaLinks
Videos
RF Balun Transformers Demystified
Measuring Balun Performance
Articles
Understanding the RF Balun and its Transformative Function
GSPS Converter Wideband Front-End Design
The Use of Baluns for Measurements
Antenna Options for IoT and Mobile Devices
Difficult Design Challenges Solved with 2 to 14 GHz Matched Microwave Mixer
If you have any questions on the specifications for selecting a Balun, please reply using the button below. If you have questions on a specific Balun, please post those questions in the Wireless and IoT category.