IEC 62037-5:2021

Overview

IEC 62037-5:2021 is the IEC international standard that specifies recommended test fixtures and procedures for measuring passive intermodulation (PIM) generated by filters used in RF and microwave wireless systems. It defines qualification and acceptance test methods for filters intended for low intermodulation (low‑IM) applications. This second edition (2021) replaces the 2013 edition and includes updated dynamic testing requirements that define impact energy and impact locations for devices under test (DUT).

Key topics and technical requirements

• Scope and purpose
  • Measurement of passive intermodulation produced by filter assemblies (two‑port and multi‑port filters) for wireless communications.
  • Intended for qualification/acceptance testing of filters used where low PIM is required.
• Test fixtures and schematics
  • Examples of recommended test equipment schematics are provided for transmit‑band and receive‑band PIM measurements, including forward/reverse configurations and injected‑interferer techniques.
• Measurement procedure essentials
  • Calibration of carrier signal levels and IM receiver sensitivity per IEC 62037‑1:2012 (general requirements).
  • Guidance on DUT connection, frequency ranges, and documenting measured PIM values.
• Environmental and dynamic PIM testing
  • Discussion of common sources of error (e.g., back‑to‑back filters causing harmonic mismatches and standing waves).
  • Environmental or vibrational stress during live PIM measurement is generally not recommended due to repeatability and isolation concerns.
  • A practical dynamic test (post‑stress stability check) using a non‑destructive tapping/hammer method is specified. This references IEC 60068‑2‑75:2014 for hammer test parameters (example: 0.25 kg striking element dropped from 56 mm, ~0.14 J), with prescribed impact locations near connectors and along filter edges.
• Reporting
  • Test reports must state test severity (impact energy, weight/drop height) and PIM results across the tested frequency ranges.

Practical applications and who uses this standard

IEC 62037‑5:2021 is used by:

• RF/microwave test engineers and laboratories performing PIM measurement on filters.
• Filter designers and manufacturers validating low‑IM performance for base stations, repeater systems, and critical wireless infrastructure.
• Telecom operators and procurement teams specifying acceptance criteria for components installed in networks.
• Compliance engineers comparing filter performance against industry‑accepted PIM test methods.

Benefits include improved measurement repeatability, clearer test acceptance criteria, and guidance for realistic dynamic stress checks relevant to field performance.

Related standards

• IEC 62037‑1:2012 – General requirements and measuring methods for passive intermodulation.
• IEC 60068‑2‑75:2014 – Environmental testing - Hammer tests (referenced for dynamic impact testing).
• Other parts of the IEC 62037 series for broader PIM testing guidance.

Keywords: IEC 62037-5:2021, passive intermodulation, PIM measurement, filters, RF, microwave, test fixtures, dynamic testing, low intermodulation, DUT.