Reducing test time and costs, the IQ Fiber Master MT2780A is a multi-port CPRI-based RF and PIM analyser, claimed by Anritsu to be the first instrument to perform true passive intermodulation (PIM) analysis over fibre and present RF spectrum results derived from IQ data.
The MT2780A reduces test costs and time by providing field engineers, field technicians and third-party contractors with a single instrument to conduct RF interference measurements and PIM troubleshooting on LTE-based systems using CPRI front haul infrastructure.
The IQ Fiber Master uses patented PIM over CPRI and RF over CPRI measurement capabilities that allow tests to be conducted on the ground. This reduces tower climbs, reports the company. Field engineers and technicians can use the MT2780A to scan the uplink RF signals of a remote radio head (RRH) for in-band interference while simultaneously conducting PIM over CPRI measurements. It supports all Tier 1 LTE basestation radio manufacturers, reports Anritus and can determine if key performance indicators are being affected by interference or PIM.
Analysing CPRI IQ data allows users to view a radio’s uplink spectrum for interference troubleshooting. The IQ Fiber Master measures PIM over CPRI with four small form factor pluggable (SFP) inputs, enabling users to compare multiple bands and sectors. Measurements are performed on live cell tower traffic signals, enabling real-world testing to be conducted with no system downtime. As measurements are derived from baseband IQ data, the IQ Fiber Master can make measurements on any frequency RRH, or combination of frequencies.
The IQ Fiber Master analysis results provide a full PIM diagnosis. It will report the presence of PIM, whether it is internal or external, and the distance to PIM. In addition, the proprietary PIM heat map displays which transmitter contributes the most PIM. This collective diagnosis data shortens the entire PIM hunting exercise by directing field engineers and technicians to the most probable location and cause of the issues.
For on-going monitoring, the IQ Fiber Master can be installed at cell sites to conduct long-term PIM over CPRI measurements and provide analytical information. PIM-related problems, such as intermittent PIM occurring on specific days and times or changes in PIM due to basestation load during the day, can be measured in this configuration. Reports of the measurements can be generated and used for comparative analysis.
The IQ Fiber Master MT2780A also serves as a band-less PIM testing solution that can be a carrier’s first test tool when identifying an interference problem and its location.
All LTE bands are supported. The IQ Fiber Master MT2780A is compact and lightweight; it can fit in to the palm of the hand, says Anritsu. It weighs 1kg (2.2lbs) and measures 185 x 133 x 55mm (2.1 x 7.3 x 5.2-inches).
