Thank you for choosing a Boonton test system. The PIM31 is a high performance
instrument that allows users to make reliably, highly accurate measurements of
passive intermodulation, in systems and / or components. Our test systems are
built to the highest quality standards. We strive to provide the most reliable, state
of the art test equipment allowing our customers to have the utmost confidence in
the results of their testing. To ensure you can utilize all functions and features of
this test system, we strongly recommend you familiarize yourself with this manual
prior to operating your PIM31 test system. This manual contains valuable
information on the safe operation of the PIM31 test set and a brief technical
background on passive intermodulation.
7
2 SAFETY SUMMARY
2.1 SYMBOLS
This safety requirement symbol (located on the rear panel) has
been adopted by the International Electro-technical Commission,
Document 66 (Central Office) 3, Paragraph 5.3, which directs that
an instrument be so labeled if, for the correct use of the instrument,
it is necessary to refer to the instruction manual. In this case it is
recommended that reference be made to the instruction manual
when connecting the instrument to the proper power source. Verify
that the correct fuse is installed for the power available.
The CAUTION symbol denotes a hazard. It calls attention to an
operational procedur e, pract i ce or instr uct i o n that, if not followed,
could result in damage to or destruction of part or all of the
instrument and accessor i es. Do not proce e d beyond a CAUTION
symbol until its conditions are fully understood and met.
The NOTE symbol is used to mark information which should be
read. This information may be very useful to the operation when
with the subject covered in this section.
The HINT symbol is used to identify additional comments which are
outside of the normal format of the manual, however can give the
user additional information about the subject.
8
The following general safety precautions must be observed during all phases of
operation and maintenance of the Boonton PIM 31 Passive Intermodulation Test
System. Failure to comply with these precautions or with specific warnings
elsewhere in this manual violates safety standards of design, manufacture, and
intended use of the instrument. Boonton Electronics Corporation assumes no
liability for the customer’s failure to comply with these requirements.
INSTRUMENT MUST BE GROUNDED
To minimize shock hazard, the instrument chassis and cabinet must be
connected to an electrical ground. The instrument is equipped with a
three conductor, three prong AC power cable. The power cable must
either be plugged into an approved three-contact electrical outlet or used
with a three-contact to a two-contact adapter with the (green) grounding
wire firmly connected to an electrical ground at the power outlet.
DO NOT OPERATE THE INSTRUMENT IN AN EXPLOSIVE
ATMOSPHERE
Do not operate the instrument in the presence of flammable gases or
fumes.
KEEP AWAY FROM LIVE CIRCUITS
Operating personnel must not remove instrument covers. Component
replacement and internal adjustments must be made by qualified
maintenance personnel only. Never replace components or operate the
instrument with the covers removed and the power cable connected.
Even with the power cable removed, dangerous voltages may be
present. Always remove all jewelry (rings, watches, etc.) and discharge
circuits before touching them. Never attempt internal service or
adjustment of the test system unless another person, capable of
rendering first aid and resuscitation, is present.
9
DO NOT SUBSTITUTE PARTS OR MODIFY INSTRUMENT
Do not substitute parts or perform any unauthorized modification of the
instrument. Return the instrument to Boonton Electronics for repair to
insure that the warranty and safety features are maintained.
NON IONIZING RADIO FREQUENCY RADIATION HAZARD
This device generates Radio Frequency (RF) energy under normal
operation, and should always be operated in accordance with local and
national licensing laws. RF energy in the 700 to 1,000 MHz and 1,800 to
2,200 MHz with a total power of up to 50W Watts or +47 dBm is present
at the test port during testing. The Test Port is to be terminated into a
non radiating 50 ohm load to reduce the risk of RF exposure. Do not
switch RF Power On if Test Port is open or load is unknown.
ELECTRIC SHOCK HAZARD
The device is supplied with 90 to 264 Volt AC. Prior to AC connection
always inspect the power cord and instrument cas e for da mag e. I f
damage is observed, do not use until inspected and repaired by an
authorized Boonton Service center.
2.2 DISCLAIMER
PIM 31 test systems transmit two settable CW RF signals, with a power of up to
25W each, to measure passive intermodulation of components and transmitting
systems.
Wireless Telecom Group and its subsidiaries are under no circumstances
accountable for use of PIM31 test systems not conforming to laws and
regulations of national and local authorities. Customer / user bear the full
responsibility and legal accountability to use PIM31 only in a lawful manner.
10
2.3 POWER REQUIREMENTS
Caution
The PIM 31 Series is equipped with a switching power supply that provides
automatic operation from a 90 to 260 volt, 47 to 63 Hz, single-phase, AC power
source. Maximum power consumption is 750W / 750 VA
For bench-top use, choose a clear, uncluttered area. For field use,
choose a dust free environment. Ensure that there is at least 2" of
clearance at the fan air intake on the front panel and bottom vents,
and the exhaust vents on the back panels to allow for proper air
circulation.
Before powering the unit up make sure the instrument does not
show indications of exposure to extensive force like dents, torn off
pieces or loose parts in the case.
11
2.4 PIM 31 SERIES PACKING LIST
PIM 31 Series Test Systems are shipped complete and are ready to use upon
receipt.
NoteSave the original packing material and container to reship the
instrument, if necessary. If the original materials (or suitable
substitute) are not available, contact Boonton Electronics to
purchase replacements. Store packing materials always in dry
environment. If frequent used in the field with we strongly
recommend purchasing our PIM 31 Transit Case. See chapter
Accessories for ordering information.
Unless otherwise ordered * , your will receive:
• PIM 31 Series Passive Inter mo dulat ion Test System
• Line Cord with 90 deg connector
• USB Mouse
• USB Roll-Up Keyboard
• 2 Connector Savers
• Low PIM Cable 3m (10ft)
• Low PIM Load 50W
• Torque Wrench
* PIM 31 and accessories are available in customized versions / packages. Please refer to
Appendix A for specific package lists.
12
3 PIM 31 ELEMENTS
Number
Element
Description
1
Power Switch
Function similar to a PC:
must be in ON Position
2
LAN connector
For factory use only
3
USB Ports (3)
USB Ports for mouse, keyboar d and
Memory Stick
4
RF Port w/ protection
cap
RF Port,
Always use protection cap when PM31
3.1 PIM 31 FRONT PANEL
one short push – PIM31 powers up,
Another short push – controlled power
down
Holding it for 3 second – powers unit
down immediately
See also chapter Powering PIM31
up/down.
Note: Main Power Switch on the back
13
is not in use.
5
Audio
Loudspeaker for audio si g nal s
6
Touch Screen
Display
Touch screen display 800x600.
on the screen
7
RF Power On
RF-Power light indicates when RF
Power is present.
8
Front Panel Air
Always allow for proper airflow, prevent
in.
9
Type Label
Provides information about PIM31 Tx/Rx
frequency bands
Never use sharp devices to push buttons
Vents
alien objects or dust from being sucked
14
3.2 PIM 31 BACK PANEL
Number
Element
Description
1
Main Power supply
AC Supply: 90-264V, 7 50W / 750VA
Fuse: 4A / 230V or 8A / 110V
2
Main Power Switch
PIM31 contains protection circuitry to control
Button to power the system down.
3
VGA Port
Allows using an external VGA Monitor
4
Communications port
Factory use only
5
10 MHz Reference
out
10 MHz reference output to synchronize
external equipment
6
Air Flow Fan
Always ensure sufficient air flow
7
Air Flow Fan
Always ensure sufficient air flow
use 90 deg connector only
RF Power during operation and during
powering on/off cycles.
After switching Main Power Switch On wait 2
seconds before pushing Front Power Button.
Fans may Briefly run after power off.
Note: Do not use Main Power Switch while
system is in operation mode, vital files may
get corrupted Always use the Front Power
15
4 PRECAUTIONS
Caution
Caution
Caution
DO NOT touch RF Connecting parts of components with bare
fingers.
Even the smallest amount of sweat on the conductors can cause
oxidation, which will reduce the performance of the element and
can cause PIM. Elements Included:
• RF Port of PIM31
• Low PIM Cables
• Low PIM Load
• Low PIM Adapters
• All components in the transmitting path of the System under
Test or DUT.
DO NOT switch on RF power without load or antenna attached.
Switching RF power on without termination, results in the full
transmitted energy of the test system being reflected back into the
test system. This can overstress the system cause damage. The
load ensures energy flow from the test system to the load, which
transforms all RF energy into heat.
DO NOT operate the PIM31 in any active systems.
The PIM31 is a very sensitive Test System that allows testing and
analyzing passive RF components. Under no circumstances should
the tester be operated w hen the RF path is active, no outside
carrier signals should be present in the RF path under test. This
includes all active signals even when they are operating in different
frequency bands. Operation with active signals present will cause
serious damage to the i nst r um ent.
16
Caution
Caution
Caution
DO NOT connect or disconnect any accessory or component
of the test setup with RF power switched on.
Even at low RF power levels, spark discharge can occur with
sudden energy flow or flow disruption.. Spark discharg e - must be
avoided, because it will alter the surface of the pins and connection
areas. “Burned” surfaces will not only reduce the performance of
the component, but can also cause permanent PIM.
DO NOT operate test system and load without connector
savers.
All connectors wear out when used frequently. Connector savers on
the RF Port and the load port(s). help to prevent costly repairs of
the PIM31 Boonton connector savers offer negligible influence on
measurements. We suggest to always leaving the connector saver
attached to the tester / load to ensure they are always utilized.
Replace them when they wear out, and their performance
deteriorates. For order information please refer to the chapter
accessories.
DO NOT mount components directly on the PIM31.
Always use a cable between PIM31 and DUT. The connector of the
PIM31 is a high quality, high precision element. It is designed to
withstand tangential forces that occur when connector savers or
cables are torqued on with the appropriate force. The RF Port
connector is not designed to support the weight of a component.
17
Caution
Caution
DO NOT block air vents.
Due to its high RF output power, PIM31 consumes up to 750W.
This energy has to be disposed. While these test systems have
protection against overheating, it is vital to keep air vents clear of
any obstructions that would prevent or limit the air flow.
Air vent locations
• Front Panel
• Back Panel
• Bottom
Keep clearance at least 15 cm / 6 inches for Front and Back Panel
Vents, and 4cm / 1.5 for the bottom vent.
DO NOT bent cable tighter than 40 cm / 16 inches of diameter.
Caution
Cables that come with the PIM31 offer a combination of high
quality, low PIM, and high reliability. The test cable is a vital piece
of the measurement setup, and a damaged or worn cable will
influence PIM measurements... The structure of Boonton’s PIM
cable offers customer friendly utilization in the field and in the
factory it allows for a bending radius of 20 cm / 8 inches. Tighter
bending will permanently alter the cable structure, which will cause
performance loss and can ca use per m an ent PIM , rend er i ng the
cable unusable. See also chapter: Using the Cable.
DO NOT over-torque the RF Port connector and accessories.
The best performance of RF connectors is achieved when the
connections are made with the correct torque. Too much of a
torque can permanently deform PINs and connections areas, too
little torque can hinder the electron flow, varying the impedance or
in some cases can cause spark discharge. All these effects can
damage the components permanently. To ensure proper
connections always use the torque-wrench that comes standard
with the PIM31.
18
Caution
DO NOT use sharp devices at the touch screen.
Users can operate PIM31 test systems but utilizing the touch
screen or via keyboard/mouse. The user interface is designed
specifically for field use; all vital operations can be conveniently
accessed via the touch screen interface. Do not use sharp devices;
they can damage the touch screen. The touch screen, display and
CPU are a single integrated module. In case of service the
complete module has to be exchanged. To prevent costly repairs,
use only your fingers or very dull devices to interact with the
screen.
4.1 USING HIGH PERFORMANCE RF ACCESSORIES
PIM test sets combine very high output power, with extremely sensitive receivers.
Note: The sensitivity of the PIM 31 receiver is many times greater than the
sensitivity of a Base Station. Any unwanted influence generated by poor
performing accessories will reduce the accuracy of the desired measurement. To
ensure quality measurements great care has to be taken; not only for the test
system but also for the cables and accessories. Remember you want to measure
the PIM of the device under test, not a poor performing or worn accessory.
Prevent unnecessary force:
Nearly all RF connectors are designed to allow for manual
connection. To ensure a proper connection, RF connectors should
be manually mated, push in to seat the center pin, then hand
tightened until seated. The torque wrench should only be used to
tighten the last ½ turn or less. Improper connections will cause
performance loss. This includes under torquing and over torquing.
Both, over and under-torquing, result in weak connections which
contribute to PIM. Over tightening may damage the connector and
lead to visible metal fragments in the connector’s surface. All
damaged connectors and connectors savers should be replace
prior to testing.
19
Keep Accessories clean:
Dust and dirt may affect test results. Make sure accessories are
stored properly and clean. Please use the protective caps - to keep
the accessories free from contamination. Never use sharp devices
to remove any contamination because scraping can cause metal
chips in the contact areas, which will generate PIM. If any dirt,
corrosion or any other foreign matter needs to be removed use
special RF contact cleaning tabs and / or compress ed air.
Keep Accessories dry:
Even the best plating will wear if accessories are frequently used.
Moisture will cause oxidation. Prevent moisture by using supplied
protective caps and keeping accessories stored properly. Many
connectors are weather sealed to prevent moisture from enteri ng
the contact area. If you discover moisture use RF contact cleaning
tabs and blow dry with compressed air.
Check for wear and tear :
All metal to metal surface subjected to movement will eventually
show the effects of wear and tear. In the case of PIM
measurements the results appear as an increase in PIM level.
Check your accessories frequently to ensure that they are working
properly. Once you have determined that an accessory is no longer
performing as it should, replace it with a new device. When you
received the replacement, dispose of the old one to prevent
accidental reuse. Check chapter on Accessories for ordering
information of spare and replacement accessories. Accessories are
key to accurate PIM measurements. Although properly functioning,
they are also wear and tear items and will need to be replaced.
20
4.2 USING HIGH PERFORMANCE RF CABLES
Cables are as vital to proper PIM testing as any of the other accessories are.
Treat them with the appropriate care. All hints listed above for accessories apply
to cables as well. Always use cable caps to protect connectors when the cable is
not in use. The bending radius for the PIM31 cable delivered by Boonton is 20cm
/ 8 inches. To prevent damage, coil cable no tighter than 40 cm / 16 inches in
diameter. A transit case for PIM31 systems is available. This case has dedicated
space for test systems, accessories and also the low PIM cable. For more
information please refer to the chapter on accessories.
“Treat accessories and cables for what they are:
High precision measurement devices”
PIM tests measure the device in the testing path that generates the highest level
of PIM. Worn or malfunctioning accessories lead to inaccurate measurements.
Remember you want to measure the PIM level for the RF path or device under
test, not a worn accessory or test cable. Inspect your accessories and cables
prior to each use, and treat them as part of a high precision me asurement
device.
21
5 POWERING PIM 31 UP/DOWN
5.1 Powering UP
PIM 31 test systems power up in a similar fashion to a desktop PC. However,
there is one exception: significant RF power has to be controlled and managed..
For this reason PIM 31 series test systems contain a protection system to protect
the hardware, e.g. prevents unusual on/and off cycles ( e.g. 3 cycles per
second). When used normally, the user will not even recognize that these
protective mechanisms are working.
Preparations for powering up:
Ensure that the main outlet has pr oper gr ou nding.
Connect the correct power cable to the tester
Connect the power cable to the main outlet
• Switch on the PIM31 main power switch at
the backside of the unit. Allow for a short
delay before switching on front power
button. (This will allow protection circuitry
to enable all PIM 31 modules).
• Push Start Button briefly at the front panel.
The system will boot up automatically and show the user interface in the Field
Mode.
22
Caution
Caution
5.2 POWERING DOWN
PIM31 can be powered down in different ways listed below. It is not
recommended to power down simply by “Pulling the plug” or
switching off the Main Switch on the back panel.
Exiting
The proper way is to Exit the UI is by pressing the
red exit button. This will generate an exit pop up.
Respond to the pop-up menu’s choice Yes / NO to
power the system down or not. This method ensures
the RF is switched off properly, all UI and computer
processes are terminated in an orderly fashion, and
data files are closed.
Forced Termination
Holding the Start Button on the front panel for 3 seconds generates a soft
reset. RF is switched off, and all vital files will be closed and stored. In
this mode, the urgency to power off the unit trumps handling and closing
all files. Some information, e.g. log data may be lost.
Main Switch
When not following the proper shutdown sequence and using the Main
switch on the back to terminate power it is likely that files get corrupted,
and the test system may be harmed.
Note: Cooling fans may become operational after the main switch is
placed in the off position until discharge of all internal capacitors is complete;
typically within 5 seconds
23
Caution
“Pulling the Plug”
This “method” should be avoided under all circumstances. It can
damage the hardware and corrupt files. This “method” is
especially critical if the RF port is still connected to a grounded
system under test. Residual discharges may flow via RF Ground /
Shield. With the main connector no longer plugged in, ground
connection is also disrupted.
24
6 GETTING STARTED
Before starting to measure components with PIM31 systems, users are urged to
familiarize themselves with the precautions (Don’ts) in the chapter below.
Improper operation and handling can cause bodily harm or damage the
instrument.
6.1 THE FIRST MEASUREMENT
Preparations:
• Mount connector saver to RF Port and Load (if not already mounted)
• Connect Low PIM cable to Test system (Note: always connect the test
cable to the instrument prior to connecting to the DUT)
• Connect Load to cable.
At this point the RF Button is visible but inactive. Power levels and the
frequencies of the carrier signals must be set in or der to act i v at e the RF button.
To do so, pushing the “Carrier” button displays a list of Carrier signal settings.
Since this is the first boot up, the list is empty. To enter carrier parameters, push
“New” at the Carrier Select screen. Now we can enter a Carrier name,
frequencies and power levels. With growing list of carriers, meaningful carrier
25
names help to recognize the settings: Example 20W_869_896 means: power of
the signals is 20W, and the frequencies used are 869 MHz and 896MHz.Every
entry or change needs to be confirmed by pushing the “Enter” button. Once our
entries are complete, we return to the previous screen, “Carrier List” by pushing
the green Return button. The list shows now a carrier entry. By pushing the
Green return button we come back to the Field Mode screen.
26
PIM 31 test systems provide not only accurate PIM analysis, they also allow
users to log data that is specific to a particular test setup or particular base
station site. At a later point, measurements can be recalled for comparison and to
analyze if the performance has changed. This particular information has to be
entered as well. The process is similar to the Carrier entry, except this time we
push the “Site” button. As with the carrier, the system lists all available Sites (or
Tests). Since we have not entered a Site the list is still empty.
Note: Site information is linked to particular Carriers. If a different Carrier
is selected the associated list of Sites (Tests) corresponds to Sites that
were entered under this Carrier.
Now we can enter detailed base station or measurement setup information. Once
completed, we return to the initial Field Mode Screen. The selected Site (Test)
information is now visible in the appropriate fields and the RF Button is now
active.
27
By pressing the RF Button, the system initializes, and starts measuring PIM. A
second push of the RF button stops measurements and transmission of RF
signal carriers. The last PIM reading is held and shown in grey.
Note: PIM 31 test systems switch RF Power off after 30mins (default).
Other cycles or “Always On” can be selected. For more information
refer to chapter System Menu.
28
7 PIM 31 OPERATION
PIM31 Test Systems were developed to measure and analyze PIM data of RFcomponents, cables, or complete RF systems.
Operation Modes for Different Applications: Field Mode / Analyzer Mode
Depending on the application, the users’ requirements will be different. The main
task at a base station site is to quickly analyze the RF Path, and document the
measurements. If unacceptable PIM levels are detected the PIM31 can be used
to identify and pin-point problematic components. When testing base stations,
typically, the frequency and power settings of the test equipment are site specific.
Focus lies on quick measurement and documentation of data. PIM31 test
systems provide this easy to use functionality in the Field Mode. All base station
test parameters can be stored in the PIM31 test system, including feeder and
sector information. By selecting the base station, the user is ready to go. For
preventive maintenance it can be very helpful to compare actual with historical
data, which the PIM31 offers this as well. Measurements can be stored in the
system as .log files. Whenever data are logged, the log field stores
measurements, test system settings, and even complete information of the base
station. The operator can view the historical data of a base station at any time
and analyze if readings have changed compared to historical measurements.
29
Similar conditions apply when components are tested. The instrument settings do
not change, but for quality reasons every measurement has to be documented.
For measuring RF Components, the Field Mode is a very comfortable and
efficient
If more detailed information about the DUT is required, it can be accessed by
using the Analyzer Mode of the PIM31 test system. In this mode the user can
analyze multiple intermodulation products at the same time (Frequency Mode),
can record graphical traces over a longer time period (Time Mode) and can
frequency sweep DUTs (Sweep Mode) to ensure it performs within the complete
frequency band within specification.
The following chapters Field Mode and Analyzer Mode provide more detailed
information.
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