AWT PIM-P User manual

PIM-PAnalyzer
User’s Manual
AWT-Global, LLC. - www.awt-global.com - +1.973.321.3423
Passive Inter-Modulation Distortion

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PIM-PAnalyzer User’s Manual
Copyright AWT-Global, LLC. All rights reserved.
Table of Contents
INTRODUCTION............................................................................................................... 1-11
SAFETY SUMMARY ........................................................................................................ 2-122.1 SYMBOLS.................................................................................................................. 2-2
2.2 DISCLAIMER............................................................................................................. 2-3
2.3 POWER REQUIREMENTS ....................................................................................... 2-4
2.4 PIM-P SERIES PACKING LIST ................................................................................ 2-4
PIM-P ELEMENTS ............................................................................................................ 3-133.1 PIM-P FRONT PANEL............................................................................................... 3-2
PRECAUTIONS ................................................................................................................. 4-144.1 USING HIGH PERFORMANCE RFACCESSORIES.............................................. 4-5
4.2 USING HIGH PERFORMANCE RF CABLES ......................................................... 4-7
POWERING PIM-P UP/DOWN......................................................................................... 5-155.1 Powering UP................................................................................................................ 5-2
5.2 POWERING DOWN................................................................................................... 5-3
GETTING STARTED......................................................................................................... 6-166.1 THE FIRST MEASUREMENT.................................................................................. 6-2
PIM-P OPERATION........................................................................................................... 7-177.1 Operations Menu Tree................................................................................................. 7-4
7.2 FIELD MODE............................................................................................................. 7-5
Field Mode Elements ................................................................................... 7-57.2.1
Carrier Entry................................................................................................. 7-77.2.2
Site Entry.................................................................................................... 7-107.2.3
Comments .................................................................................................. 7-137.2.4
History Screen............................................................................................ 7-147.2.5
Data Management ...................................................................................... 7-157.2.6
Log Files and Content................................................................................ 7-157.2.7
Log File Management ................................................................................ 7-167.2.8
Data Copy .................................................................................................. 7-177.2.9
Data Delete Log Files................................................................................. 7-187.2.10
Data Delete Carrier & Site......................................................................... 7-197.2.11
7.3 System Menu............................................................................................................. 7-20
PIM-P Memory Space................................................................................ 7-217.3.1
System Menu Functional Block................................................................. 7-217.3.2
7.4 Analyzer Mode.......................................................................................................... 7-25
Frequency Mode......................................................................................... 7-277.4.1
Time Mode................................................................................................. 7-277.4.2
Sweep Mode............................................................................................... 7-287.4.3
DFP (Distance to Faulty PIM) and VLM (VSWR/ Line Monitor).................................. 8-188.1 Introduction ..................................................................................................................... 8-2
8.2 Specification................................................................................................................ 8-2
8.3 Procedures to measure DFP (Distance to Faulty PIM)................................................ 8-3
DFP (Distance to Faulty PIM) Setup................................................................... 8-3
............................................................................................................................... 8-38.3.1
DFP (Distance to Faulty PIM)...................................................................... 8-38.3.2
Procedures to measure DFP source.............................................................. 8-78.3.3
8.4 Procedures to measure VLM (VSWR/ Line Monitor)............................................... 8-14
VLM (VSWR/Line Monitor) Setup........................................................... 8-148.4.1
VLM (VSWR/Line Monitor) Measurement .............................................. 8-148.4.2

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PIM-PAnalyzer User’s Manual
Copyright AWT-Global, LLC. All rights reserved.
Procedures to measure the distance to a faulty VSWR.............................. 8-188.4.3
Pull Down Menu ................................................................................................................. 9-199.1 File............................................................................................................................... 9-3
Start / Stop History Save.............................................................................. 9-39.1.1
Screen Capture / Print .................................................................................. 9-49.1.2
Initialize Program......................................................................................... 9-59.1.3
Quit............................................................................................................... 9-59.1.4
9.2 System Management.................................................................................................... 9-6
Self Check.................................................................................................... 9-69.2.1
PIMD Management...................................................................................... 9-79.2.2
What is PIM?..................................................................................................................... 10-110 10.1 What Causes PIM? .................................................................................................... 10-2
Manufacturing & Design............................................................................ 10-210.1.1
Mechanical................................................................................................. 10-210.1.2
Environment............................................................................................... 10-210.1.3
10.2 How to test PIM......................................................................................................... 10-3
PIM-P Technical Information.............................................................................................11-111 11.1 Tester Types................................................................................................................11-2
11.2 Specifications (Data Sheet) ........................................................................................11-3
Transmitter Specification............................................................................11-311.2.1
Receiver Specifications...............................................................................11-311.2.2
System Specifications .................................................................................11-311.2.3
Environmental.............................................................................................11-311.2.4
Dimensions and Weight...............................................................................11-411.2.5
Maintenance...................................................................................................................... 12-112 12.1 Block Diagram........................................................................................................... 12-2
12.2 Performance Check.................................................................................................... 12-3
Testing Analyzer operation status .............................................................. 12-312.2.1
12.3 Performance Verification........................................................................................... 12-4
Tx Signal Power Level............................................................................... 12-412.3.1
Tx Signal Frequency.................................................................................. 12-512.3.2
Rx Power and Receiving Frequency.......................................................... 12-612.3.3
Accessories........................................................................................................................ 13-113
Appendix............................................................................................................................................i
Appendix A................................................................................................................................ii
Appendix B...............................................................................................................................iv
Appendix C...............................................................................................................................vi

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PIM-PAnalyzer User’s Manual
Copyright AWT-Global, LLC. All rights reserved.
INTRODUCTION1

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PIM-PAnalyzer User’s Manual
Copyright AWT-Global, LLC. All rights reserved.
Thank you for choosing an AWT Analyzer. The PIM-P 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 PIM-P
Analyzer. This manual contains valuable information on the safe operation of the PIM-P
test set and a brief technical background on passive intermodulation.

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PIM-PAnalyzer User’s Manual
Copyright AWT-Global, LLC. All rights reserved.
SAFETY SUMMARY2

2-2
PIM-PAnalyzer User’s Manual
Copyright AWT-Global, LLC. All rights reserved.
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
procedure, practice or instruction that, if not followed, could result in damage to or
destruction of part or all of the instrument and accessories. Do not proceed 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.
The following general safety precautions must be observed during all phases of
operation and maintenance of the AWT PIM-P Passive Intermodulation Analyzer. 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. AWT
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.

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PIM-PAnalyzer User’s Manual
Copyright AWT-Global, LLC. All rights reserved.
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.
DO NOT SUBSTITUTE PARTS OR MODIFY INSTRUMENT
Do not substitute parts or perform any unauthorized modification of the
instrument. Return the instrument to AWT 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 100 to 240 Volt AC. Prior to AC
connection always inspect the power cord and instrument case for damage.
If damage is observed, do not use this until inspected and repaired by an
authorized AWT Service center.
2.2 DISCLAIMER
PIM-P Analyzers transmit two settable CW RF signals, with a power of up to 25W each,
to measure passive intermodulation of components and transmitting systems.
ACEWAVETECH is under no circumstances accountable for use of PIM-P analyzer not
conforming to laws and regulations of national and local authorities. Customer / user bear
the full responsibility and legal accountability to use PIM-P only in a lawful manner.

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PIM-PAnalyzer User’s Manual
Copyright AWT-Global, LLC. All rights reserved.
2.3 POWER REQUIREMENTS
The PIM-P Series is equipped with a switching power supply that provides automatic
operation from a 100 to 240 volt, 47 to 63 Hz, single-phase, AC power source. Maximum
power consumption is 750W / 750 VA
Caution
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 right side vents of front panel, and the exhaust vents on the left side
vents of front panel 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.
2.4 PIM-P SERIES PACKING LIST
PIM-P Series Analyzer is shipped complete and is ready to use upon receipt.
Note
Save the original packing material and container to reship the
instrument, if necessary. If the original materials (or suitable substitute)
are not available, contact AWT Co., Ltd. to purchase replacements.
Store the packing materials always in dry environment. If frequent used
in the field with we strongly recommend purchasing our PIM-P Transit
Case. See chapter Accessories for ordering information.
Unless otherwise ordered *, your will receive:
• PIM-P Series Passive Intermodulation Test System
• Line Cord with 90 degree connector
• 1 Connector Saver
• Low PIM Cable 1m (3.3ft)
• Low PIM Load 50W
• Install CD & manual
* PIM-P and accessories are available in customized versions / packages. Please refer to Appendix A
for specific package lists.

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PIM-PAnalyzer User’s Manual
Copyright AWT-Global, LLC. All rights reserved.
PIM-P ELEMENTS3

3-2
PIM-PAnalyzer User’s Manual
Copyright AWT-Global, LLC. All rights reserved.
3.1 PIM-P FRONT PANEL
No.
Element
Description
A
Touch Screen Display
Touch screen display 800x600. Never use sharp devices to push
buttons on the screen
B
Type Label
Provides information about PIM-P Tx/Rx frequency bands
C
Audio
Loudspeaker for audio signals
D
Main Power Switch
PIM-P contains protection circuitry to control
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 Button to power the system down.
E
Main Power supply
AC Supply: 100-240V, 750W /750VA
use 90 degree connector only
Fuse: 4A /230V or 8A / 110V
F
USB Ports (3)
USB Ports for mouse, keyboard and Memory Stick
G
LAN connector
For factory use only

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PIM-PAnalyzer User’s Manual
Copyright AWT-Global, LLC. All rights reserved.
H
Power Switch
Function similar to a PC:
one short push –PIM-P powers up,
Another short push –controlled power down
Holding it for 3 second –powers unit down
immediately
See also chapter Powering PIM-P up/down.
Note: Main Power Switch on the front must be in ON Position
I
10 MHz Reference
out
10 MHz reference output to synchronize external equipment
J
RF Port w
RF Port.
K
RF Power On
RF-Power light indicates when RF Power is present.
L
Front Panel Air Vents
Always allow for proper airflow, prevent alien objects or dust
from being sucked in.

4-1
PIM-PAnalyzer User’s Manual
Copyright AWT-Global, LLC. All rights reserved.
PRECAUTIONS4

4-2
PIM-PAnalyzer User’s Manual
Copyright AWT-Global, LLC. All rights reserved.
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 PIM-P
Low PIM Cables
Low PIM Load
Low PIM Adapters
All components in the transmitting path of the System under Test
or DUT.
Caution
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.
Caution
DO NOT operate the PIM-P in any active systems.
The PIM-P is a very sensitive Test System that allows testing and
analyzing passive RF components. Under no circumstances should the
tester be operated when 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
instrument.
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 discharge - 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.

4-3
PIM-PAnalyzer User’s Manual
Copyright AWT-Global, LLC. All rights reserved.
Caution
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 PIM-
P 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.
Caution
DO NOT mount components directly on the PIM-P.
Always use a cable between PIM-P and DUT. The connector of the
PIM-P 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.
Caution
DO NOT block air vents.
Due to its high RF output power, PIM-P 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
Both sides of Front Panel
Keep clearance at least 15 cm / 6 inches for Front Panel Vents.
Caution
DO NOT bent cable tighter than 40 cm / 16 inches of diameter.
Cables that come with the PIM-P 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 AWT’s PIM cable offers customer
friendly utilization in the field and in the factory it allows for a bending
radius of 40 cm / 16 inches. Tighter bending will permanently alter the
cable structure, which will cause performance loss and can cause
permanent PIM, rendering the cable unusable. See also chapter: Using
the Cable
Caution

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PIM-PAnalyzer User’s Manual
Copyright AWT-Global, LLC. All rights reserved.
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 PIM-P.
Caution
DO NOT use sharp devices at the touch screen.
Users can operate PIM-P Analyzers 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.
Caution
Do NOT touch the cable during the measurement
Should not touch DUT and the cable which is connected to PIM-P
unit after RF Power ON. Touching the cable and DUT makes the
contact (the discontinuous contact point) between the unit and them
incomplete. The IMD, DFP, and VSWR values can be incorrect with
this incomplete contact.

4-5
PIM-PAnalyzer User’s Manual
Copyright AWT-Global, LLC. All rights reserved.
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-P 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.
Hint
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 torqueing and over torqueing.
Both, over and under-torqueing, 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.
Hint
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 compressed air.
Hint
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 entering the contact area. If you discover moisture use
RF contact cleaning tabs and blow dry with compressed air.

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PIM-PAnalyzer User’s Manual
Copyright AWT-Global, LLC. All rights reserved.
Hint
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.

4-7
PIM-PAnalyzer User’s Manual
Copyright AWT-Global, LLC. All rights reserved.
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 PIM-P cable delivered by AWT is 20cm / 8 inches. To prevent damage, coil
cable no tighter than 40 cm / 16 inches in diameter. A transit case for PIM-P 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 measurement device.

5-1
PIM-PAnalyzer User’s Manual
Copyright AWT-Global, LLC. All rights reserved.
POWERING PIM-P UP/DOWN5