Network, Computer and Programming Resources

Network - Balun

A balun is a hardware device used to adjust impedances in order to connect different types of cable. The name comes from balanced/unbalanced, because the device is often used to connect twisted pair (balanced) to coaxial (unbalanced) cable. Baluns may have different connectors at each end to make them compatible with the cable types being connected. For example, a balun might have a BNC connector at one end and an RJ-45 connector at the other. A balun makes it possible to use twistedpair wiring that may already be installed in parts of a building or office in conjunction with coaxial cable that is coming from elsewhere or that has been installed more recently. The balun controls the electrical signal's passage from one cable type to the other, but does not change the signal in any other way. Similarly, a balun enables you to connect a network interface card designed for use with coaxial cables to a hub that uses twisted-pair cabling. Baluns vary with respect to the cable gauge (thickness) supported and to the maximum cable distance over which the signal is supported. This distance may be as high as 360 to 460 meters (1,200 to 1,500 feet). Coaxial boosters may be used to increase signal strength in the coaxial cable, and thus increase the distance over which the signal will be supported by the balun. However, such boosters can cost up to ten times as mach as a balun, and will only double the supported distance. BROADER CATEGORIES Connector; Intranetwork Link