Saab Grintek launches portable PIM testing capability

22 August 2007 Test & Measurement

Recent advances in cellular technology have created the need for service providers to improve the quality of existing infrastructure and new network installations. In an effort to assist service providers in this process, Saab Grintek in conjunction with TRIASX (an Australian engineering company) recently introduced what is claimed to be the first portable passive intermodulation (PIM) test set into the African market.

Recent advances in cellular technology have created the need for service providers to improve the quality of existing infrastructure and new network installations. In an effort to assist service providers in this process, Saab Grintek in conjunction with TRIASX (an Australian engineering company) recently introduced what is claimed to be the first portable passive intermodulation (PIM) test set into the African market.

PIM distortion is caused by the non-linear mixing of two or more signals in a passive device such as a connector or cable. This type of distortion causes interference at the base station receiver and consequently degrades the performance of the receiver. "The quality of site installations was previously tested using mainly return loss measurements whilst there was no way for testing PIM performance," says Danie du Toit, general manager for the Antennas division.

PIM problems on installations can cause excessive delays, causing a site to exhibit lower than expected capacity, high dropped call rates and ultimately reduced revenues.

In the past it was virtually impossible to conduct PIM testing outside a laboratory. Components had to be sent to Saab Grintek or similar institutions for testing. The TRIASX portable PIM tester, however, provides a convenient and cost effective solution to operators in certifying components and installations on-site.

For more information contact Nomsa Sithole, Saab Grintek, +27 (0)12 672 8000.

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