Intermodulation

‹ if two frequencies f1 and f2 pass through a non linear element (semi con-ductor
effect), harmonics of the original frequencies are created (2f1,3f2,...)
‹ combinations of these harmonics result in a frequency spectrum called
intermodulation products
‹ IM product of even order (e.g. f1 + f2 or 2f2 - 2f1) :
uncritical because of the big distance to original frequencies

2f2 - 2f1 f1 + f2

©Kathrein/Scholz 07/01
Intermodulation

‹ IM products of odd
orders :
dangerous due to their
closeness to the original
frequencies
† IM products falling into
the Rx band, cannot be
suppressed by filters
and may block the
equivalent channels

Example : GSM 900 Tx - Band Rx - Band

935 – 960 MHz 890 – 915 MHz
Intermodulation products f1 f2 fIM
rd
3 Order 2f1 - f2 936 MHz 958 MHz 914 MHz 2
th
5 Order 3f1 - 2f2 938 MHz 956 MHz 902 MHz

©Kathrein/Scholz 07/01
Intermodulation

‹ effects of intermodulation
- blocking of Rx frequencies
- overloading the system by creating non-existing subscribers
‹ GSM standard specification :
Level of 3rd order IM product below carrier : - 103 dBm
Ref. to two carriers of 20 W (43 dBm) each : - 146 dBc
‹ Kathrein antennas provide a typical intermodulation attenuation of the
3rd order product of -150 dBc (2 x 20 W carriers)

Comparison carrier IM - product

0 dBm - 150 dBm
Averaged distance earth - sun 150 Mill. kilometer
Äquivalent distance 0,15 mm
3

©Kathrein/Scholz 07/01
Intermodulation

‹ How to avoid intermodulation products in passive devices like antennas, cables or

connectors ?

† pure materials such as copper, brass or aluminum are recommended

- mixed materials like stainless steel are forbidden
† no material combination with a high chemical electrical potential
- a thin corrosion layer between the materials act like a semi conductor
† contacts have to be well defined and fixed
- no rivets or unlocked screws
† cable connections should be soldered
† 7-16 connectors provide better IM performance compared to N

‹ External creation : ‚Rusty bolt effect‘

©Kathrein/Scholz 07/01