PORTABLE DEVICE USED TO MEASURE PASSIVE INTERMODULATION IN RADIO FREQUENCY COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS

摘要

The present invention relates to a measurement method for characterizing passive intermodulation in radio frequency (RF) communication systems. The methods is particularly well suited for characterized the passive intermodulation level of fielded RF subsystems and components where AC line power may not be readily available. The method utilizes a minimum level of RF energy to perform the characterization, minimizing the disruption to nearby communication systems. By utilizing low average RF power levels, a device which utilizes this method can be designed for battery operation and hand-held use. This makes the device significantly less costly than currently available measurement solutions.