What is the major function of an antenna tuner (antenna coupler)?

What is the major function of an antenna tuner (antenna coupler)?

• A. To improve modulation quality
• B. To amplify the transmitted signal
• C. To match the antenna system impedance to the transceiver's output impedance
• D. To filter out unwanted signals

Answer: (C)

An antenna tuner, also known as an antenna coupler, primarily serves to match the impedance of the antenna system to the output impedance of the transceiver. This matching is crucial because most transceivers are designed to work efficiently with a specific impedance, typically 50 ohms. When the impedance of the antenna does not match this value, it can lead to signal loss and reduced transmission efficiency. The tuner adjusts and optimizes the antenna's impedance to facilitate maximum power transfer and minimize reflections, which enhances overall performance. Achieving this impedance matching allows for better signal quality and range, making it a fundamental component for effective communication in amateur radio. Other functions listed, such as improving modulation quality or amplifying the transmitted signal, are not the primary purpose of an antenna tuner. While filtering unwanted signals can be part of a more comprehensive radio setup, it does not accurately describe the essential role of the tuner itself.

An antenna tuner, also known as an antenna coupler, primarily serves to match the impedance of the antenna system to the output impedance of the transceiver. This matching is crucial because most transceivers are designed to work efficiently with a specific impedance, typically 50 ohms. When the impedance of the antenna does not match this value, it can lead to signal loss and reduced transmission efficiency.

The tuner adjusts and optimizes the antenna's impedance to facilitate maximum power transfer and minimize reflections, which enhances overall performance. Achieving this impedance matching allows for better signal quality and range, making it a fundamental component for effective communication in amateur radio.

Other functions listed, such as improving modulation quality or amplifying the transmitted signal, are not the primary purpose of an antenna tuner. While filtering unwanted signals can be part of a more comprehensive radio setup, it does not accurately describe the essential role of the tuner itself.