For those who would like the combination of a 4:1 balun capable of tolerating many compromised Off Center Fed Dipole or multiband loop installations and still provide the highest possible level of performance, the model 4116 is the solution. As the title indicates, this balun is a hybrid combination of a 4:1 voltage balun and a 1:1 current balun. If you look closely at the image, you can see the coaxial wound 1:1 current balun underneath the voltage balun stacked above it. This combination results in a very versatile and rugged 4:1 current balun.
By utilizing a voltage balun in the first stage, the unit is able to handle many compromised installations with the 1:1 current balun providing superior RF choking, feedline isolation and excellent current balance. Our beta testing showed the ability to provide excellent performance even in some very difficult and unusual installations.
It should be noted that OCFD antennas were designed for and intended for use on only even harmonics, i.e. 80m, 40, 20m and 10m. Manufacturers that claim all band usage achieve this claim by using a very poor balun that allows the coax feedline to "load" the antenna which will consequently produce a low SWR although antenna efficiency is in the 15-25% range. Baluns such as ours that provide high levels of feedline isolation are ideal for high efficiency antennas, but should not be used on WARC bands or 15m unless power does not exceed 200-300 watts especially for FT8 and RTTY carriers.
Specifications
Core Material | Custom mix low permeability ferrite by Fair Rite Products for maximum bandwidth. Large 2.4 inch cores are coated and sealed for long term durability. |
Winding Type | 2 individual cores, first stage wound as 4:1 tuner balun, second as 1:1 current balun. |
Winding Material | 2 bifilar windings of 14 gauge Allex 240 Winding Wire Heavy build polyimide film in Teflon tubes then Mil Spec coax utilized for the 1:1 isolation/choke balun. |
Power Rating | 1.5 to 54 MHz - 3kW All ratings based on resonant load. High SWR will reduce power handling ability. |
Useable Frequency | 1.5 to 54 MHz |
Insertion Loss | Less than .03db |
Connectors | SO-239 connectors are gold center conductor with Teflon insulation. Studs and eyebolts are 1/4 inch. |
Hardware | All Stainless Steel |
Enclosure Type |
NEMA rated 4x marine grade junction box for outdoor installations. Cover utilizes integral neoprene gasket for weatherproof integrity. |
Dimensions | 4x4x2 inches for main body of unit |
Additional Info | Very high efficiency. Will not heat up or saturate at like many of the "less expensive" designs. |
Reviews
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4116t
I have not used it much but this time of year (June) but when I use this 4116t it is excellent Balun Design Industry is the best. Bob is a great person to deal with on what balun or items to purchase. Paul Wozniak…KB9VWD