The measurement of intermodulation products on passive components and transmission lines

Multiple frequency carrier systems require components and transmission cables and connectors with low passive intermodulation products between the frequency channels. With the implementation of cellular private radio networks, the market and the usage of components with extreme low passive intermodulation products characteristics, has been a dramatic growth in the volume and tightened specifications. The measurement of the PIM and the verification of those measurements has created a major task for the manufactures of components, cables and connectors. This paper gives a momentary status report on the measurement activities in the industry and the work of the IEC 46 TC standardisation group.