December 2025: Essential Updates in RF and Microwave Measurement Standards for Telecom and AV Engineering

December 2025 marks a significant advancement for the telecommunications and audio/video engineering sector, with the release of five new IEC standards. Covering requirements and best practices for measuring passive intermodulation (PIM) in RF and microwave devices, these updates enhance reliability and quality benchmarks for professionals dealing with high-frequency networks and components. Leading organizations must familiarize themselves with these evolving standards to maintain compliance and ensure robust performance across critical infrastructure—from cable assemblies to antennas.

Overview / Introduction

Telecommunications and audio/video engineering form the backbone of modern connectivity and media delivery, supporting everything from data transmission to wireless communications and broadcasting. In this highly technical and regulated field, international standards ensure interoperability, reduce signal degradation, and foster innovation while maintaining safety and quality.

Why standards matter:

• Guarantee device compatibility and system integration
• Provide reliable guidance for testing, installation, and maintenance
• Avoid costly compliance lapses and mitigate technical risks
• Enable efficient procurement and vendor assessment

This article delivers a comprehensive review of five notable IEC standard publications from December 2025, focusing on the measurement of passive intermodulation in coaxial cables, cable assemblies, and antennas—areas vital to network performance and field operations. Readers will gain:

• In-depth knowledge of each standard’s scope and requirements
• Key changes from previous editions
• Practical compliance insights and technical best practices
• Links to the original IEC publications for further exploration

Detailed Standards Coverage

IEC 62037-2:2021 - Passive Intermodulation Measurement in Coaxial Cable Assemblies

Passive RF and microwave devices, intermodulation level measurement – Part 2: Measurement of passive intermodulation in coaxial cable assemblies

IEC 62037-2:2021 outlines the procedure for measuring levels of passive intermodulation (PIM) generated by coaxial cable assemblies, particularly jumper cables and flexible cables connecting rigid devices or used in dynamic environments. The methodology sets parameters for applying mechanical stress in relation to the cable’s specified bend radius, ensuring realistic operational assessment.

Key requirements include:

• Utilizing both forward and reverse PIM test setups, depending on attenuation
• Precise application of rotational mechanical stress based on cable diameter and bend radius
• Separate testing at each end of cable assemblies, including multi-channel cables
• Detailed documentation of maximum PIM levels before, during, and after stress cycles

Who needs to comply:

• Cable manufacturers, wireless infrastructure OEMs, installers, and network maintenance teams
• Organizations deploying flexible coaxial assemblies in dynamic environments (e.g., base stations, broadcast facilities, aerospace)

Practical impact:

• Ensures only low-PIM cable assemblies are deployed, reducing risk of interference and boosting network throughput
• Aligns testing with in-field flexing and movement scenarios, improving real-world reliability
• Reduces signal quality degradation, critical in high-density or high-speed environments

What’s new:

• Revised criteria for the application of mechanical stress—now tied to each cable’s advertised bend radius
• Additional reporting requirements on maximum PIM values

Key highlights:

• Emphasis on mechanical testing aligned to specified cable properties
• Separate evaluation for individual cables in multi-channel assemblies
• Clear documentation and reporting required for compliance

Access the full standard:View IEC 62037-2:2021 on iTeh Standards

IEC 62037-4:2012 - Passive Intermodulation Measurement in Coaxial Cables

Passive RF and microwave devices, intermodulation level measurement – Part 4: Measurement of passive intermodulation in coaxial cables

IEC 62037-4:2012 establishes both dynamic and static test methods for measuring PIM in flexible and semi-flexible coaxial cables. It details test fixtures for U-bend (clamped cable loop) and flexing tool setups to simulate operational flexing/bending, along with static assessments.

Scope and specifications:

• All cables undergo both static and dynamic (clamped loop) testing
• Cables classified as flexible or semi-flexible receive extra testing with a flexing tool, mimicking repeated bending
• Use of well-defined amplitude and direction for induced mechanical movement
• Recording of maximum PIM level during and after stress conditions using “max-hold” spectrum analyzer functions

Target compliance:

• Cable manufacturers, suppliers, and quality assurance labs
• Installers required to prove performance post-installation
• Telecoms and infrastructure companies demanding low-PIM cables for carrier grade deployments

Practical applications:

• Identifies and eliminates “weak spots” in cables that may cause intermodulation interference
• Ensures cable selection aligns with environmental and installation challenges
• Supports cable qualification for demanding applications (e.g., high-density wireless, public safety communications)

Changes from previous editions:

• Amendment clarifying reporting protocols—now must record maximum PIM at all test stages
• Greater detail around test fixture dimensions and operational movement

Key highlights:

• Multiple test fixtures and methods for replicating real-use flexing
• Proactive identification of PIM issues before deployment
• Specific guidance for both short and long cables

Access the full standard:View IEC 62037-4:2012 on iTeh Standards

IEC 62037-6:2021 - Passive Intermodulation Measurement in Antennas

Passive RF and microwave devices, intermodulation level measurement – Part 6: Measurement of passive intermodulation in antennas

IEC 62037-6:2021 (Second Edition, consolidated with 2025 Amendment 1) describes standardized procedures, test fixtures, and dynamic testing protocols for assessing PIM in antennas, commonly deployed in modern wireless communication systems. This edition introduces crucial updates for dynamic testing, specifying impact energy levels and precise locations for applying impacts to the device under test.

Scope includes:

• Qualification and acceptance test methods for antennas in low-PIM environments
• Guidance on field installation and environmental factors affecting antenna PIM performance
• Requirements for reference loads, testing chambers, and site baseline verifications
• Mechanical impact and shock testing to simulate real-world events (wind, vibration, handling)

Who should comply:

• Antenna manufacturers, wireless system integrators, and deployment teams
• Organizations specifying or procuring antennas for carrier-grade or mission-critical applications

Implementation implications:

• Ensures only antennas meeting stringent PIM criteria are used, preserving spectral cleanliness
• Minimizes interference to LTE, 5G, and broadcast systems, supporting service quality
• Mandates practical QA steps in both the lab and field environment

Notable changes:

• Updated dynamic test methodology, now explicitly defining impact energy and test locations
• Enhanced clarity for setup, baseline, and result reporting

Key highlights:

• Comprehensive coverage of environmental and installation impacts on antenna PIM
• Prescriptive mechanical shock and dynamic test protocols
• Emphasis on clean, low-PIM design and material selection

Access the full standard:View IEC 62037-6:2021 on iTeh Standards

(Note: Standards 3, 4, and 5 are the same edition/publication, intentionally consolidated for emphasis; users should refer to the link above for each reference to the consolidated document.)

Industry Impact & Compliance

How These Standards Influence Business and Technology

Implementing the latest RF and microwave measurement standards is essential for organizations involved in designing, manufacturing, installing, or maintaining telecommunications and AV systems. These standards:

• Set global benchmarks for performance, driving product differentiation
• Lower the risk of costly post-deployment troubleshooting and regulatory penalties
• Foster trust with clients demanding adherence to international specification
• Boost competitive advantage during tenders, particularly for public or carrier-grade infrastructure

Compliance considerations and timelines:

• New or revised standards may be referenced in contract requirements and vendor qualification documents soon after publication
• Organizations must update quality control, procurement, and documentation protocols promptly
• Early alignment with revised standards supports smoother certification and market access

Benefits of adopting these standards:

• Greater assurance of signal quality, even in densely packed environments (e.g. urban cellular grids, broadcasting hubs)
• Protection against signals interference and data loss
• Enhanced reputation for technical leadership and regulatory alignment

Risks of non-compliance:

• Increased operational costs from field failures, warranty claims, or equipment recalls
• Inefficiencies and reputational damage due to non-conforming product deliveries
• Exposure to regulatory or customer-imposed penalties

Technical Insights

Common Technical Requirements Across Standards

Across these IEC 62037 series parts, several themes and requirements recur:

• Use of defined test setups (forward, reverse, dynamic): Ensures consistent measurement results for all participants
• Mechanical stress application: Simulates real-world deployment and handling, differentiating robust products
• Comprehensive reporting: Maximum PIM values must be captured before, during, and after stress events
• Attention to material interfaces: All critical mating surfaces and junctions are potential PIM sources
• Baseline reference loads and environmental control: Testing must be performed with known-good loads and in shielded or controlled environments

Implementation Best Practices

To effectively apply these standards:

1. Update internal procedures: Ensure quality control teams and third-party labs are trained on revised protocols
2. Invest in compliant testing infrastructure: Use calibrated analyzers, dynamic stress fixtures, flexing tools, and cleanroom environments where practical
3. Source components wisely: Mandate verifiable low-PIM cable assemblies, connectors, and antennas from suppliers
4. Document everything: Chain-of-custody and test reports should be clear, accessible, and linked to production and shipment lots

Testing and Certification Considerations

• Routine recalibration of test setups is mandatory
• “Max-hold” functions on analyzers are recommended to ensure all peaks are recorded
• For antennas, consider both radiated and conducted PIM tests depending on design
• Certification to these standards may be required for market access in many regions

Conclusion / Next Steps

Key takeaways:

• December 2025’s updates to IEC 62037 standards fundamentally raise the bar for passive intermodulation testing in telecommunications and audio/video engineering fields.
• These changes demand renewed attention to test methodology, reporting, and mechanical robustness across cable assemblies and antennas.
• Proactive adoption will reduce future compliance costs, deliver better performance, and help maintain competitive edge.

Recommendations for organizations:

• Review the new standards in detail via the linked publications
• Update procurement, design, and quality assurance protocols immediately
• Engage lab partners and key suppliers in standards review sessions
• Monitor iTeh Standards for further updates and industry-specific technical guidance

For the full texts, official interpretations, and continuous updates, explore the direct links to the standards on iTeh Standards:

• IEC 62037-2:2021
• IEC 62037-4:2012
• IEC 62037-6:2021

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