Antenna Matching Techniques

The role of the antenna coupler is to provide an impedance matching function in either of two ways: narrowband or broadband. With narrowband matching a near perfect impedance match is achieved at a single frequency. With broadband matching a less than perfect impedance match is accepted in order to get an optimal match over a broad range of frequencies. This paper presents the current techniques used for narrowband antenna couplers. Included is the basic approach to be followed, some of the pitfalls, and general engineering advice. It is assumed that the reader has a computer at his/her disposal. Broadband matching of antennas in application where it is advantageous.