CommScope Andrew 7161269-00 698-960 MHz 4-Way Input Combiner Card

The CommScope Andrew 7161269-00 (also referenced as Comb 4:1 or 7161269-00 with internal code CS7762040.01) is a 4-way input combiner card designed for the ION-M optical distributed antenna system (DAS). It operates in the 698–960 MHz frequency band, covering common cellular spectra including 700 MHz, 800 MHz and 900 MHz bands used for 2G, 3G, 4G LTE and 5G NR deployments. The module combines four separate RF input signals into a single common output port, facilitating efficient signal aggregation at the head-end of ION-M DAS systems for multi-operator, multi-sector or multi-band in-building and outdoor distributed coverage.This passive combiner card belongs to the family of band-specific modules used in CommScope ION-M master units and expansion units. It provides nominal attenuation in the range of approximately 11–12 dB while delivering high port-to-port isolation to minimize crosstalk and intermodulation between inputs. The design maintains 50 ohm impedance across the full operating band and supports standard RF power levels suitable for DAS head-end applications. It is typically paired with other ION-M combiner cards such as the 7160615 (1710–1990 MHz) and 7160614 (1920–2170 MHz) to enable multi-band signal combining before optical conversion and transport over single-mode fiber to remote units.
Mechanically, the 7161269-00 is a plug-in card format (usually 3HU height) that installs directly into compatible ION-M subracks or chassis slots. It features standard RF connectors (commonly SMA or N-type depending on the specific ION-M configuration) for input and output ports. The passive architecture requires no external power supply for the RF path, simplifying installation and reducing points of failure. The card is engineered for reliable long-term operation in controlled telecom environments, with attention to thermal stability and consistent electrical performance under varying signal loads.
Key operational characteristics include low passive intermodulation (PIM) performance where applicable, high isolation between input ports, and compatibility with ION-M system management and alarm functions through the host chassis. The combiner supports aggregation of signals from multiple base station sources or sectors, reducing cabling complexity and optimizing rack space in the master unit. It is commonly deployed in neutral-host DAS installations for venues such as stadiums, airports, office buildings, campuses and high-rise structures requiring uniform cellular coverage.
Installation requires adherence to CommScope ION-M guidelines, including correct slot placement, verification of input power levels to prevent overdrive, and proper torque on RF connectors. Periodic maintenance involves inspection of connections and measurement of insertion loss and isolation using standard RF test equipment. The module integrates seamlessly with ION-M optical transceivers, remote units and monitoring platforms without introducing active amplification or additional noise.
This 4-way combiner card enables operators to scale DAS capacity efficiently while maintaining signal integrity across low-band frequencies. It is backward-compatible within legacy ION-M systems and is frequently utilized during network expansions, technology upgrades or multi-operator deployments. Correct cable selection and system-level power balancing are essential to achieve optimal performance and avoid intermodulation issues in multi-carrier environments.