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Data Sheet
Passive Intermodulation
P 31
Analyzer 2 x 20W
Taking performance to a new peak
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PIM 31 - Passive Intermodulation Analyzer 2 x 20W
Boonton’s PIM 31 series test systems are precision analyzers
for passive intermodulation generated in RF paths, components
and assemblies. PIM 31 analyzers allow the detailed examina-
tion of components used in radio base stations, in-building-DAS
installations and other systems transmitting radio frequencies.
Components such as coaxial feeder assemblies, jumper cables,
splitters, hybrids, filters, DC blocks, lighting arrestors and anten-
nas, are all potential sources of PIM problems.
Passive intermodulation is an unwanted mixing effect caused
by non-linearity of passive components in the RF path. Inter-
modulation diverts signal energy partially to other frequencies
(spurious), which may fall into receive bands and cause serious
degradation of system performance.
Boonton’s PIM 31 passive intermodulation analyzer emulates
a base station radio by providing two signals, up to 20W each,
thus following the IEC62037 standard for PIM testing. The
frequencies of these carriers are variable within the band of the
analyzer, allowing PIM 31 operators to select the optimal fre-
quencies for their wireless systems. PIM 31 analyzers combine
portability with accuracy and a very high sensitivity of -175 dBc
@ 2x43dBm. They are well suited for both, field use and the
production floor. Applications range from performance evalua-
tion of RF infrastructure, to RF component quality testing.
To provide optimal functionality, Boonton’s PIM 31 analyzers
offer two user interfaces (except UL models). Depending on
the application it can be switched between a functional field
diagnostic mode and detailed analysis mode with accessibility
to all settings and readings. PIM 31 analyzers can be controlled
by external mouse and keyboard or through the built-in touch
screen display. Whether analyzing wireless infrastructure, or
tracking device quality on the production floor, recording of the
measurement results is mandatory for quality management. It
offers a recording capability as a standard feature (except UL
models). Data files or images can be stored, allowing the user to
review and analyze measurements at a later point in time.
Features
• 20W PIM analyzer
• Two variable signals +20 to +44 dBm each
• User selectable TX frequencies within the analyzer’s band
• Very high PIM sensitivity of -175 dBc @ 2 X 43 dBm carriers
• Measures Intermodulation products IM3, IM5, IM7 and IM9
• User settable frequency sweeps
• Measurement recording numeric or image traces
• Touch screen display
• Self calibrating
• PIM vs. Time Graph
• Maxhold (Not available on UL models)
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Field Diagnostic Interface*
For field applications PIM 31’s field diagnostic mode presents the
relevant information in a clear way. In this mode frequency and
power levels of the carrier signals are set. The screen shows the
PIM measurement in large digits, for easy readability even from
a greater distance. The dBm value is presented simultaneously
to the dBc value. A future software update will provide a bar
graph for immediate visual display of the measured value and its
tendencies.
Analyzer Mode
The analysis mode of the user interface provides access to all
settings. Power and frequency of each transmitted signal can
be set individually. The user interface allows the display of up to
four IM products. Reference lines for automatic Pass/Fail deci-
sions can be set. The mode of the test (PIM vs. Frequency, PIM
vs. Time, and PIM vs. PIM vs. Frequency also known as Sweep)
can be selected as well.
Benefits to operators of RF transmission systems
• Higher customer satisfaction through higher QoS
• Reduction of maintenance costs achieved through quick
detection of components that cause PIM distortion
• Reduction of operational cost through increased network
efficiency
• Reduced capital investment through practical network
optimization
Sweep Mode
Sweep mode allows the user to automatically vary the frequen-
cies of the measurement band. Any up and down sweep fre-
quency range can be set within the unit bandwidth. Sweeps are
performed in 1 MHz increments. To allow for the fastest sweep
cycles, automatic level control is disabled in this mode.
Benefits to manufacturers of Passive RF Components
• Reduced capital investment through outstanding price /
performance ratio
• Reduction of service calls, since components can be tested
and verified on site with the same PIM analyzer used in
production
• Maximization of revenue, due to optimal use of available
bandwidth and air time.
*Not available for UL models.
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About PIM
Rx Band Tx Band
Intermodulation can occur whenever more than one signal
is present in an RF system. This is clearly the case in modern
wireless communication technologies, such as EvDo, WCDMA
/ UMTS, TD-SCDMA, WiMax or LTE. All of them use spread
spectrum signals utilizing a multitude of frequencies simultane-
ously. With a non-linear component in the RF path these signals
will mix and create spurious products.
PIM vs. VSWR
Impedance match between components and systems is an im-
portant factor for transmitting RF energy. VSWR measurements
are used to determine the impedance matching conditions. Ide-
ally impedance of connected components is equal and indepen-
dent of power and frequency. In reality system impedances vary
depending on actual frequency and power levels. Impedance
mismatch causes intended transmission energy to be reflected
back to the transmitter.
Impedance Mismatch
100%
PIM (Passive Intermodulation distortion)
Ideally all passive components in an RF path offer linear fre-
quency response. As with VSWR, real world conditions are not
ideal. All passive components show some degree of non-lineari-
ty. The goal is to keep it as low as possible.
The strongest intermodulation product is usually the third order
product IM3, closest to the source signals. It is calculated as
follows:
1) IM3 = 2x f1 – f2
2) IM3 = 2x f2 – f1
Where f1 is the first signal frequency and f2 is the second
signal frequency. IM3 in equations 1) and 2) are of equal power.
Using just two frequencies is a simplification since virtually
all current communication technologies utilize multitudes of
frequencies to carry the information, and therefore provide an
ideal precondition for intermodulation effects that generate
harmonics. Intermodulation products are often found within the
RX band, degrading receiver performance, or disabling receiving
channels completely. Unwanted signals present in the active
channel will desensitize the cell phone and may drop the call.
PA Output Power
Effective
Transmitted Power
Spread Spectrum Intermodulation Effects
100%
Diverted Power
Effective
PA Output Power
IM3
Transmitted Power
IM3
Frequency
IM5IM5
IM7IM7
Frequency
What causes PIM effects?
Dissimilar metals with different electrical potential constitute a
potential voltaic element. Humidity between them will trans-
form it to a galvanic element acting like a diode.
Ferromagnetic metals, like iron, nickel and steel, show hyster-
esis effects when energy is applied. The resulting signal level
is altered depending on input level and the actual slope of the
waves -the resulting signal response is no longer linear.
Irregular contact areas, even on a microscopic scale, cause an
inconsistent flow of charge carriers and generate inhomoge-
neous electromagnetic fields. Dissimilar expansion coefficients
of tower and feed lines can expose system connectors to sig-
nificant mechanical forces. Dissimilar expansion coefficients of
tower and feed lines can expose system connectors to signifi-
cant mechanical forces, which often results in shifted contacts
or worse, damaged contact areas.
Spark discharges caused by accidental “hot” connection / dis-
connection of components result in a combination of negative
effects: Craters in the surface, and chemical transformation of
contact plating and alloys.
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Spectrum with harmonics caused through passive intermodulation
effects.
Components that can cause PIM
• Connectors
• Jumper cables
• Splitters
• Hybrids
• Filters
• Antennas
• DC blocks
• Lightning Arrestors
Causes of PIM
• Dissimilar metals
• Ferromagnetic metals (nickel, steel, iron)
• Corrosion of passive components in the RF path
Specifications
Transmitter Specification
Carrier Power Adjustable Level +20 to + 44 dBm
Carrier Power Resolution / Accuracy 0.25 dB / ±0.35 dB
Frequency Range see version table
Frequency Increment 200 kHz
Frequency Accuracy (typical) 2 ppm
Frequency Tuning Lock Time (typical) 1 ms
Reverse Power Protection
(Include ON/OFF Function) 43 dBm / 5 sec
Receiver Specifications
Reverse IM -132 dBm / -175 dBc
Average Noise Floor -138 dBm (1.2 k filter)
Dynamic Range (typical) 96 dB (reference -90 dBm)
Measurement Interval 100 to 350 ms
Effective IF Bandwidth 300 Hz, 600 Hz, 1.2k, 2.4k, 5k,
(operator selectable) 10k, 12k, 15k, 25k, 50kHz
Operational Input Power -45 dBm RMS
Input Power without damage -10 dBm max
Warm-Up Time for specified accuracy 5 minutes accuracy
PIM Measurement Accuracy ±2 dB for 2 x 43 dBm
System Specifications
RF Connector DIN ⁄”
User Interface Display 7” TFT with touch screen display
IM Measurement Alarms Audio / visual
Operating Voltage 90 to 264 V (50-60 Hz)
Power requirements 750 VA max
Environmental
Operating Temperature 0° to 45°C / 32° to 113°F
Humidity (non-condensing) 85% RH
Max Altitude 2000 Meters / 6560 Feet
• Irregular contact areas
• Mechanical damage
• Resistive Components
• Poorly designed components
Dimensions (W/D/H) Weight
All types except F02 & F07UL
396 x 521 x 236 (mm) 23.8 kg / 52.3 lb
15.6 x 20.5 x 9.3 (inches)
PIM31-F02
396 x 602 x 236 (mm) 25.3 kg / 55.7 lb
15.6 x 23.7 x 9.3 (inches)
PIM31-F07UL
390 x 586 x 276 (mm) 31 kg / 68.3 lb
15.3 x 23.8 x 10.9 (inches)
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Ordering information
Model Number TX Band RX Band Technology
PIM31-F01 869-896 MHz 824-851 MHz CDMA(850)
PIM31-F02 925-960 MHz 880-915 MHz E-GSM(900)
PIM31-F03 1805-1880 MHz 1710-1785 MHz DCS(1800)
PIM31-F04 1930-1990 MHz 1850-1910 MHz PCS(1900)
PIM31-F05 2110-2170 MHz 1920-2060 MHz UMTS/WCDMA(2100)
PIM31-F06 935-960 MHz 890-915 MHz GSM(900)
PIM31-F07U 730-759 MHz 776-788 MHz LTE-US(700-U)
PIM31-F07L 730-759 MHz 698-716 MHz LTE-US(700-L)
PIM31-F07UL 730-759 MHz 776-788 MHz LTE-US(700-UL)
730-759 MHz 698-716 MHz
PIM31-F08 2010-2025 MHz 1900-1920 MHz TD-SCDMA(2000)
PIM31-F09 2110-2155 MHz 1710-1755 MHz AWS
PIM31-F10 2620-2690 MHz 2500-2570 MHz IMT-E(2600)
Other frequencies on request
Adapters & Accessories Supplied
DIN ⁄ Male to Female Connector Saver
Low PIM Cable, DIN ⁄, Male to Male, 3 meters / 10 feet
50W Load (PIM -160 dBc typical)*
Optical Mouse
Roll-up Keyboard
Operating manual
* Loads with lower PIM available. Please contact factory or Boonton / WTG representative.
Wireless Telecom Group Inc.
25 Eastmans Rd
Parsippany, NJ
United States
Tel: +1 973 386 9696
Fax: +1 973 386 9191
www.boonton.com
© Copyright 2010
All rights reserved.
B/PIM31/0810/EN
Note: Specifications, terms and conditions
are subject to change without prior notice.
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