The main objective of this book is to introduce, in a unified manner, the fundamental principles of antenna theory and to apply them to the analysis, design, and measurements of antennas. Because there are so many methods of analysis and design and a plethora of antenna structures, applications are made to some of the most basic and practical configurations, such as linear dipoles; loops; arrays; broadband dipoles; traveling wave, broadband, and frequency independent antennas; aperture and microstrip antennas; horns, reflectors, and lens antennas. A distinguishing feature of this book is its three-dimensional graphical illustrations. In addition, there is an abundance of general graphical illustrations, design data, references, and additional problems.
I have read countless books on the subject of antenna theory and design, and quite frankly, have found few that are particularly useful to someone practicing in this field. It seems most texts were written for the purpose of teaching first principles and the physics associated with basic electromagnetics, and less so on practical application. Its no wonder we keep hearing antenna design referred to as a 'black art'. Professor Balanis' book does do better on the design side than most other texts on this topic, save the work of David Pozar (see review). Still, a must have for the antenna engineer's library.