Intermodulation Distortion in RF Connectors射频连接器的互调失真.pdfVIP

Intermodulation Distortion in RF Connectors Introduction Intermodulation distortion or IMD has always existed in RF transmission paths. Until about the early 1990’s, cellular communications had relatively low power carrier levels. Intermodulation distortion in passive devices was not necessarily a problem because the distortion levels were significantly below the noise floor of the broadcast system. The mobile communication industry grew rapidly and the need for greater channel capacity meant higher broadcast powers at base stations. Typical RF connectors such as the “N” connector satisfied the earlier demands but as the sensitivity of the receivers increased, a condition within RF connectors was exposed. What is IMD? IMD occurs when two or more signals occupy the same transmission paths as in full duplex systems. When the signals mix, a non-linear response manifests itself as bi-products of the fundamental frequency called intermodulation distortion or IMD. These unwanted signals typically show up in the receive band and can block a channel. The base station can interpret the carrier as being present when in fact it is not. IMD was typically not a concern at low power levels because the filtering components in the system would minimize the effects. IMD signals primarily show up on the transmit side usually between the diplexer and the antenna. With no filtering on these transmission paths, the distorted signals made their way to the receive end. With improved materials, technology and test equipment, solutions for reducing the effects are now possible. 800-233-1728 858-549-6340 F: 858-549-6345 E: tech@ W: www.RFP2.com 7610 Miramar Road, San Diego, CA 92126 Understanding PIM The basics of Passive IM (PIM) are the non-linear behavior in passive devices which causes the fundamental frequency to become distorted. Figure 1 shows the linear vs. non-linea