Like the IMT, the interconnect Quality Analyzer (iQA) is a field test tool for identifying construction defects and certifying basestation performance. But with an on board computer and touch screen interface, the iQA offers additional test capabilities such as operator selectable frequency pairs and comprehensive reports to document test results. The iQA is available for DCS/PCN, PCS, and PCS/AWS bands.

The iHA is a lightweight, low power PIM tester that can be taken up the tower or used for a coarse check on individual components. The simple to use one button push-to-test implementation makes it ideal for the intended application. However, as with all low power PIM testers, it is not intended or appropriate to use to certify a complete basestation.

PIM Testing

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, engineering needs 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 Analyser 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 offersseveral 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.

The Summitek Solution

• Integrated Solution
• All RF hardware in one enclosure
• Reverse & Forward PIM
• Swept Frequency Measurements
• Strip Chart to Measure PIM vs. Time
• Customizable Production Testing
• Remote Control
• Digital, Frequency Agile Receiver
• Integrated RF Module
• Innovate Operator Interface
• Field Upgradeable Firmware
• Engineering AND Production Modes

The Summitek benchtop units are used to verify the manufacturing quality of components in a production environment. Summitek test capabilities such as PIM vs. Time and PIM vs. Frequency provide insights that are used to improve product design and manufacturing techniques. The level of performance remains unmatched for residual IM level, accuracy and repeatability. The Summitek PIM Analyzers are used by nearly every component manufacturer and OEM around the world and are available in all major commercial wireless bands.

The IMT series is the first 20 watt PIM tester developed for use at the basestation to identify construction defects that impact network performance. The solution was designed and developed by Summitek’s technology partner, Triasx, for Telstra in Australia. Telstra aggressively pursued the goal of a “transparent” RF infrastructure in order to realize the full potential of their network. The IMT is available in the 850 MHz and 900 MHz bands.