Anritsu Spectrum Analyser PIM Alert Application

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Anritsu has launched a PIM Alert application that uses a built-in spectrum analyser to check the Uplink Band of mobile carriers for the possibility of PIM (passive intermodulation).

While there are many causes of PIM, internal PIM is typically caused by loose or corroded RF connectors, dirt or metal shavings contaminating the connectors during installation. Damaged antennas can also result in internal PIM. External PIM by comparison will occur when the antenna radiates into any device that can act as a diode, introducing high RF noise directly into the antenna’s receive path; typically corroded or dissimilar metallic surfaces such as street furniture or corrugated roofing sheets.

The presence of PIM at a cell site will result in degraded performance of the network, reduced receiver sensitivity and more frequent customer complaints. The cell boundary will be smaller, data throughput of the site will be reduced and calls may be dropped. The PIM alert application is a free tool that runs on standard BTS Master and Spectrum Master as well as Site Master instruments with the spectrum analyser option.