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Changing the RF cost performance paradigm
PIM Frequently Asked Questions – (Part 6 of 6)
Using Passive Intermodulation (PIM) measurement as a Quality Control (QC) metric is a relatively new subject to those in
cellular industry. In discussion with engineers and technicians, a number of questions are commonly asked, and this list of
Frequently Asked Questions is an attempt to provide some of the answers.
Q: How is PIM Specified?
A: Passive IM is typically specified in absolute power
(units of dBm) or power relative to only one of the test
tones (units of dBc). For example, a -110 dBm IM signal
caused by two +43 dBm tones is also specified as a -153
dBc IM level.
In the case of unequal carrier power levels, Summitek
Instruments has established the convention that units of
dBc are relative to the largest of the incident carriers.
It is important to note that a carrier power level must
always be specified with the given PIM performance level.
This applies equally to PIM performance specified in units
of dBm and dBc.
Q: Does PIM Vary with Power Level?
A: Yes. However, the relationship between the generated
PIM power level and the parent carrier power levels is not
always straightforward.
In broadband devices terminated into a broadband
termination, the IM3 response typically increases
approximately 3 dB for every one dB in carrier power level
(assuming equal carrier powers). However, there are
many factors which may not follow this rule, including:
• High return loss values at n*F1 and/or m*F2.
• Extreme slope variations on the hysteresis curves
associated with ferrite devices.
• Non-Linear behaviour of electromechanical junctions
as they approach a breakdown potential , and
• The interaction of multiple IM sources as the
impedance of each IM source changes with incident
power level.
In general, as the transmitter power increases, the
importance of PIM on the overall system performance
becomes of increasing concern. As a TDMA system fills
available frequency and time channel slots, or as a CDMA
system increases forward power levels to increase
capacity, PIM levels typically increase.
Q: Are there Measurement Standards for Passive
IM?
A: The International Electro-technical Commission (IEC)
formed a Technical Committee to prepare test methods
and to investigate relevant limits, for Passive
Intermodulation in the RF and microwave frequency range
for passive components (i.e. connectors, cables, cable
assemblies, waveguide assemblies and components...).
The result is IEC62037, an international standard for
measuring PIM. It provides a block diagram for the test
apparatus required and defines the test parameters, scope
and techniques that should be used during the process.
The issue of dynamic measurements is given a great deal
of attention with regard to cable assemblies, due to
concern over the vulnerability of the connector/cable
interface as well as IM created in the cable (by micro-
cracks in solid conductor cables and discontinuous contact
in braided cables). Testing involves measuring the IM as
the cable is flexed and/or a bending moment is applied at
the connector/cable interface.
This group has been meeting for several years, and
further information can be obtained from www.iec.ch.
Q: What is a "Good" PIM Level?
A: Low enough not to affect the performance of the
associated receive if products where to fall in band.
The required PIM performance for a given RF device is a
strong function of where that device is located in the final
system. For example, an antenna must have excellent PIM
performance as the PIM generated in the antenna is both
received and radiated by the base station.
Further, the transmit antenna is subjected to nearly the
full carrier power of the base station. On the other hand,
the PIM performance of a receive "clean-up" filter need
not be so stringent. This filter might be located on the
other side of a diplexer thus preventing the full carrier
power level from reaching its input connector.
Ultimately, it is up to the buyer to specify the maximum
acceptable PIM level and carrier power levels. Commonly
seen specifications for antennas are -100 to -110 dBm IM3
levels with 2x +43 dBm (20 Watt) per carrier tones.
Q: What are the most common causes of PIM that
you find?
A: Around 80% of PIM problems are connector related.
Many issues come from loose connectors, poor
terminations, water ingress, contaminated surfaces, flux,
metal fillings, burrs, dirt or
other foreign objects,
including dead insects or the
secretions thereof, being
found in connectors.
The need for cleanliness in
the construction of infrastructure cannot be overstated.
Q: Is a PIM measurement better then RL or DTF?
A: No. These are equally importance measurements.
PIM measurements confirm the linearity of the RF system.
RL and DTF reflect “Z”, reactive impedance, and are used
to measure how well each RF component are electrically
“matched”. A DTF measurement is perfect for finding the
distance to a fault where the fault has changed “Z” from
an original or specified value. A recorded plot can also
Further information visit our websites
www.summitekinstruments.com
www.triasx.com
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Changing the RF cost performance paradigm
provide an excellent reference of the commissioned
condition of an RF system. It should not be used as the
final acceptance criteria of an RF system.
Q: Can a PIM test reveal defects that will be missed
by measuring DTF?
A: Yes. It is possible a non linear region along the RF
system can be seen as a change in “Z” but this is not
always the case. Often a spur, scratch, or introduced
contamination will not affect the measurable level of “Z”.
Also, installation practice, intentionally or otherwise, may
neutralise (tune out) a high level of “Z” by adjusting
connector torque. A DTF plot will see this “Z” as averaged
within a measurement increment. Both the initial defect
and the attempt to correct this will show up non linearity
at this point as a level of unwanted prospective
interference or a PIM product.
Q: Which connectors do you recommend I use on
my infrastructure?
A: Most reputable connector suppliers have good and bad
connectors in their range. We suggest that all connectors
should be thoroughly assesses, in conjunction with the
cable or component they are to be used with.
Where a connector will be used matters and all
environmental conditions should be considered for their
long term impact on the connector chosen.
From the aspect of good design and reliability we have
recommend using DIN 7/16 connectors from a reputable
supplier in the majority of cases.
DIN 7/16 connectors typically have lower PIM
specifications, adequate torque levels, and high reliability.
“N” type connectors are generally harder to consistently
assemble in the field and are subject to loosening over
time.
Crimp connectors are extremely difficult to terminate
reliably. These should never be used in the RF transmit
path. Loose joint or braid threads are a PIM source.
Q: How common are PIM problems?
A: Through extensive testing with operators in Australia,
Africa, Asia/Pacific, USA and Europe, we estimate more
than 60% of existing sites have some form of PIM
problem.
Q: While PIM testing a multi-coupler, do I need to
terminate all ports?
A: You need to terminate all ports passing the test
frequencies a low PIM load.
Note: High power resistive loads typically exhibit
very poor PIM, usually around -80dBc. Use low IM
cable type loads (typically <-150dBc) when doing
testing.
Q: What is a good process for testing the RF
interconnection?
A: The first place to start is taking a measurement at the
point the interconnection connects to the radio. This will
test the whole feeder system. If you are concerned about
radiation of the RF test tones, the antenna can be
replaced with a good quality low IM load, but remember a
faulty antenna can also be a PIM source.
Record the PIM level while the whole system is subjected
to a reasonable amount of physical impact and bending
force as per IEC62037.
In the event that the system or section under test fails,
repeat the test by breaking the RF interconnection and
moving the cable load forward toward an accessible mid-
point. (You may have to move the cable load several
times until the failing component it isolated.)
Repeat this process until the whole RF interconnection is
certified as PIM source free. At this stage the installation
can be regarded as a physically sound, linear and RF
transparent conduit ready for RL and DTF sweeps to
carried out and recorded.
Q: With the continual connection and disconnection
of cables, what do you recommend to extend the
life of the Test instrument connectors?
A: The connectors on the test equipment will eventually
wear down. To prolong the life of the test equipment, we
recommend using quality connector savers/adaptors.
Using the PIM standard available as an accessory to the
portable test sets, each time the test set is used or when
ever measurement accuracy is in question, will identify
less than perfect test apparatus. This includes all
connector, jumper cables test loads and so on.
Replacement components are available from Summitek
and Triasx.
To maintain accuracy of measurement, the connectors
should be regularly cleaned and free from any metal
fillings.
Q: How often should portable PIM test set be
calibrated.
A: Annually or when ever test set performance suggests
that this is necessary. Maintenance contract that include
this service can be arranged through Summitek and
Triasx.
Q: Are there companies that will test or certify base
station infrastructure as being PIM free?
A: Triasx and Summitek have partnered with a number of
service providers to carry out testing and certification of
PIM compliant BTS. Contact either Triasx or Summitek for
information on service providers in your region.
Further information visit our websites
www.summitekinstruments.com
www.triasx.com
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