Passive Intermodulation Analyzer

The Problem:
Passive Intermodulation has become a critical parameter that must be controlled to realize optimum performance in the wireless network. To realize these extremely low levels of passive IM, it requires that the product begin with a low IM design and then the manufacturing process must be carefully controlled.

The Solution:
During the design phase, engineers need tools that allow them to test their concepts and evaluate design iterations. They must be able to look at performance from many different angles to understand what is happening. After the most cost-effective, low IM design has been developed, IM must be measured as a part of the QA process, since small deviations in the manufacturing process can lead to unacceptably high IM.

The Product:
Summitek Instruments' PIM Analyzer provides engineers the tools to thoroughly evaluate the designs. They can observe how PIM varies under mechanical and environmental stress, and how it changes as a function of frequency or power. As a quality assurance tool, the Production Mode of the analyzer allows relatively unskilled test personnel to quickly and accurately perform this difficult measurement function.

Summitek offers several models of passive intermodulation (PIM) analyzers to cover each of the popular wireless communications bands. All standard models include an RF test set, a power supply, and a computer controller. Additionally, each model can be ordered in a "K" version which provides front-panel access directly to both high-power carriers. The RF test set is also sold as a separate unit for those who perform testing in more than one of the communications bands, but would like to use only one power supply and control unit.

Features:

• Two carrier measurement with up to 25 watts per carrier
• -140 dBm receiver sensitivity
• Fully integrated units requiring no external components
• Automatic leveling control and independent carrier power monitoring eliminate the need to continuously remeasure and adjust carrier powers
• High reliability, stability, and repeatability
• In use by over 50 companies throughout the world

Summitek Passive IM Analyzers for WiMAX

The Summitek Instruments SI-2600D and SI-3500D provide important test capabilities to qualify the performance of RF components used in the basestation, and thereby increase quality of service and network capacity. The SI-2600D provides test capabilities in the 2.5 to 2.69 GHz band and the SI-3500 covers the 3.4 to 3.6 GHz band. Every passive component in the high power path of the basestation has the potential to create interference that erodes system performance and customer satisfaction. Controlling the interference created by passive IM is an important part of basestation quality.