The FCC recently released 100 MHz of bandwidth between 3.5 and 3.55 GHz frequencies at an auction that raised $22 billion. That means more 5G carriers and greater access to 5G in more places, like rural areas.
It also means more Passive Intermodulation (PIM) issues. In total, there is now 530 MHz of contiguous mid-band spectrum available to US operators spanning across the 3.45 GHz (DoD band), 3.5 GHz (CBRS band), and 3.7 GHz (C-band) spectrums.
Nearly every MHz of the mid-band spectrum is subject to PIM issues generated by existing 600 MHz, 700 MHz, 850 MHz, 1900 MHz and 2100 MHz systems installed at sites, according to an analysis by ConcealFab, a manufacturer of wireless installation infrastructure and PIM solutions. The study found that the existing low-order intermodulation products can elevate the noise floor, reducing the speed and coverage of new networks.
Several US operators are requiring PIM Hygiene at sites deploying new radio equipment to reduce the potential for PIM interference. By proactively and cost-effectively addressing potential PIM problems during mid-band spectrum deployment, operators can avoid issues later. According to ConcealFab, requiring low PIM cable support hardware and investing the time to perform PIM Hygiene while on site are simple steps that can help maximize the performance of new mid-band networks.
Learn more at https://concealfab.com/blog/ pim-interference-in-3-45-GHz-spectrum/. ConcealFab, headquartered in Colorado Springs, engineers and manufactures wireless infrastructure mounting and concealment solutions for Sub 6 and mmW deployments, as well as products that minimize passive intermodulation (PIM).
