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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

Andrew’s PIM 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 is Helping to Take PIM Out of Your System

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 material now.

 

"New" 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

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 press release now

 

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.

 

 

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 has a dedicated PIM-qualified Rapid Response Product Replacement Program for most components.

This program will support delivery of 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.

 

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

 

 


Not On Our Watch!

Reducing PIM in the RF path is both important and challenging. At Andrew, we are up to the challenge. With our coordinated team of RF experts, up-to date on the very latest research regarding PIM and armed with the latest technology and products, we’re leading the fight to help network operators realize better performance and greater efficiency by minimizing the damaging effects of PIM. PIM happens—just not on our watch!

 

PIM Calculator

Andrew Solutions has developed a sophisticated PIM Calculator that enables operators to input various RF path components, along with the component PIM specification, model number, and cable length.

 

The PIM Calculator then generates both a typical PIM value (in which the vectors combine randomly), and a worst-case value (in which the vectors all combine in-phase.) Click for more details.



 

 


 


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
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