PIM—A Disruptive Problem that Continues to Grow
Passive intermodulation (PIM) is defined as two or more wireless signals mixing together to create additional, undesired frequencies that cause interference or degrade transmission of desired signals in wireless networks. It has long been recognized as an obstacle to network efficiency. With today’s newer technologies, however, PIM is growing exponentially. Data usage is increasing but is not yet being proactively managed. Hypersensitive antennas and radios are susceptible to minute levels of distortion. Meanwhile, there are more components than ever in the RF path; each is another potential source of passive intermodulation. The incidence and cost of PIM are critical threats to network efficiency, channel capacity, and bottom line profit. Effectively addressing PIM requires an approach that is both holistic and proactive.
Introducing the Industry’s First Proactive, System-Wide Approach to Controlling PIM
The PIM Happens program is a coordinated approach designed to help operators guard against the disruptive effects of passive intermodulation and ensure more efficient RF performance. It’s a proactive and systematic, five-pronged approach.
5 Ways Andrew Solutions is Helping to Take PIM Out of Your System
AWARENESS. PREVENTION. IDENTIFICATION. RESOLUTION. SUPPORT.
1. AWARENESS
PIM isn’t confined to those involved with network testing.
So Andrew Solutions has created an active PIM education and awareness program targeting multiple departments within your organization. The more aware we are as an industry, the more vigilant we will be in minimizing the causes and effects of passive intermodulation.
Download our latest PIM educational tools now.
Improving the Efficiency of RF Power Amplifiers with Digital Predistortion
PIM Happens Brochure
PIM Frequently Asked Questions
PIM Testing Guidelines
PIM Expert Blog
White Paper: PIM Readings Require Special Care
Press Release
PIM System Calculators
Reducing PIM in the RF path is important and challenging. CommScope provides a variety of PIM system calculators to support your RF path analysis. Download the latest tools below.
|
|
PIM and VSWR System Calculator—Global
The passive intermodulation (PIM) and voltage standing wave ratio (VSWR) System Calculators support two common needs:
1) various components can be selected to be included in the RF path for analysis at a given frequency
2) vector addition calculations are performed for both a typical and a worst-case result
Learn more
|
|
|
Band and Block Second and Third Order PIM Calculator—North American Version
The Band and Block PIM Calculators allow you to select various combinations of transmit (downlink) frequency bands/blocks to determine whether there are any theoretical possibilities of 2nd or 3rd order passive intermodulation (PIM) products or “hits” being produced in the companion uplink (receive) frequency bands/blocks.
Learn more
|
|
|
Band and Block Second and Third Order PIM Calculator—EMEA Version
The Band and Block PIM Calculators allow you to select various combinations of transmit (downlink) frequency bands/blocks to determine whether there are any theoretical possibilities of 2nd or 3rd order passive intermodulation (PIM) products or “hits” being produced in the companion uplink (receive) frequency bands/blocks.
Learn more
|
2. PREVENTION
The best way to minimize PIM is to work to prevent it during field installation.
At the Andrew Institute, an internationally-recognized training facility, our educators have developed a new PIM Fundamentals curriculum that focuses on installation and connectorization. It covers all Andrew products in the RF path including crossband couplers, tower mounted amplifiers, base station antennas, and transmission line products.
View PIM Fundamentals Class
Press Release
3. IDENTIFICATION
Should unacceptable levels of PIM be detected in the RF path, it is critical that the source(s) be identified and located as quickly as possible using accurate test equipment.
Andrew Systems Inc. (ASI) service organization
has the experienced personnel and advanced core knowledge to pinpoint the sources of PIM in your network quickly and precisely. With our expanded PIM capabilities, we’ll identify the offending components and recommend a solution
that will bring your system up to specification and keep it there.
4. RESOLUTION
Once a component is isolated and identified as lacking PIM compliance or exceeding system specified PIM performance level, it must be replaced as soon as possible.
Andrew Solutions provides many PIM-qualified products including HELIAX® SureFlex™ Premium Cable Assembly components or entire cable assemblies. Replacement parts are thoroughly tested prior to delivery to ensure they meet your specifications for PIM compliance.
5. SUPPORT
With the growing complexity of today’s RF path, responsive and qualified technical support is more critical than ever.
The Andrew Intermod Squad gives you 24-hour access to technical experts experienced in troubleshooting, diagnosing, and resolving passive intermodulation issues. You can access their expertise either by phone, toll-free 1-800-255-1479, or by email intermodsquad@commscope.com
Programs
