CommScope Andrew 7160614 2100 MHz 4-Way Input Combiner Card

The CommScope Andrew 7160614 (also referenced as 7160614-00 or 7160614 Rev.00) is a 4-way input combiner card designed for the ION-M series optical distributed antenna system (DAS). It operates in the 1920–2170 MHz frequency band, corresponding to the 2100 MHz (Band 1 / IMT 2100) spectrum commonly used in 3G UMTS and 4G LTE deployments. The module combines four separate RF input signals into a single common output port, enabling efficient signal aggregation within the ION-M master unit or expansion unit for multi-operator or multi-sector DAS configurations.This combiner card is part of a family of band-specific combiner modules used in CommScope ION-M DAS systems. It features a nominal insertion loss/attenuation of approximately 10–11.5 dB (with some references indicating a range up to 21.5 dB depending on configuration and measurement conditions), while maintaining low intermodulation distortion and high isolation between input ports to prevent signal interference. The design supports 50 ohm impedance and is optimized for indoor or controlled-environment DAS installations where multiple remote units or signal sources need to be aggregated before optical conversion and distribution over fiber to remote antennas.
Mechanically, the 7160614 is a plug-in card format (typically 3HU height) that installs directly into compatible ION-M subracks or chassis. It provides a compact solution for expanding system capacity without requiring additional external hardware. The combiner supports standard RF connectors on the front or rear panel (exact connector type is usually SMA or N-type depending on the specific ION-M variant). It is intended for use in conjunction with other band-specific combiners such as the 7160615 (1710–1990 MHz) and 7161269-00 (698–960 MHz) to enable multi-band operation within the same DAS head-end.
Key operational features include passive combining architecture with no requirement for external power on the RF path, high port-to-port isolation to minimize crosstalk, and reliable performance across the full 1920–2170 MHz bandwidth. The module is engineered for continuous operation in telecommunications environments, with attention to thermal management and long-term stability under varying load conditions. Proper installation requires adherence to CommScope ION-M system guidelines, including correct slot assignment in the master unit and verification of input power levels to avoid overdrive or intermodulation issues.
This 4-way combiner is commonly deployed in in-building wireless solutions, stadiums, airports, campuses, and other venues requiring distributed coverage for cellular networks. It facilitates multi-input signal management before transport over single-mode fiber to ION-M remote units, helping operators reduce cabling complexity and optimize head-end rack space. The card is backward-compatible within legacy ION-M systems and is frequently used during system expansions, upgrades, or multi-operator neutral host DAS implementations.
Maintenance involves periodic inspection of RF connections and verification of insertion loss using standard test equipment. The combiner does not include active components for amplification or monitoring but integrates seamlessly with ION-M alarm and management features through the host chassis.