Measurements on leaky feeders

Crucial for proper operation of mobile networks - Part 3 of the series on Cable and Antenna verification

Key points:

Critical Infrastructure: Leaky feeder systems are a crucial, yet costly to modify, element of in-building and tunnel infrastructure for mobile communication coverage.

Vulnerability to Environmental Factors: The leaky feeder system's exposure to high humidity, extreme temperatures, and physical stress makes it prone to water ingress, corrosion, mechanical damage, and material degradation.

Fundamental Properties: Changes in a leaky feeder system's characteristic impedance cause reflections of forward RF energy, resulting in discontinuities, which can occur at connectors, kinks, or compressions in the cable.

Measurement Techniques: Due to practical limitations, leaky feeder system testing typically involves measuring insertion and return loss, supplemented by evaluating key performance indicators (KPIs) and user equipment reports to assess actual coverage and identify potential defects.