Logo

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a balun? A balun is a small transformer which converts an audio or video signal from unbalanced to balanced and vice versa (hence the term "bal*un"). By doing so, baluns make the necessary impedance adjustment for audio-visual signal transmission between different wiring systems. In all fairness, however, not all baluns are true "baluns;" the term balun has become a synonymous with any device which transmits audio and video over structured cabling.     Why should I use baluns? There are several key benefits derived from using baluns and twisted pair cabling. Baluns greatly extend the transmission distance of video signals Baluns allow you to send multiple signals over a single cable Twisted pair cabling such as Cat 5 is smaller and easier to pull and hide than traditional cable Baluns help eliminate ground loops and RF interference Baluns and Cat 5 typically cost significantly less than traditional cable over long distances     How do I expose the individual pairs in Cat 5 cabling? There is no single method when exposing the four individual pairs in twisted pair cabling, such as Cat 5 and Cat 6; however, it does help to have a cable stripping tool designed to strip the cable jacket/insulation.   Begin by stripping back the cable's outer jacket/insulation about an inch (or more depending on whether multiple baluns will be connected to the pairs of a single cable) so that the internal wires are exposed. Be careful not to cut the internal wires when stripping the insulation/jacket. Eight twisted wires and a string should now be visible; the string is unnecessary and may be removed. These eight wires, which when combined form four pairs, connect directly to the baluns. Typical protocol pairs similar colors; the important thing is to verify the same co