The People Powering Hutchinson – Peter O’Brien, Passive Intermodulation
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In my 17 years at Hutchinson’s Telecoms department, I’ve had the privilege to learn from a myriad of talented individuals and form friendships that have lasted for many years.

Meet Peter O’Brien

A Journey of Growth and Innovation

In my 17 years at Hutchinson’s Telecoms department, I’ve had the privilege to learn from a myriad of talented individuals and form friendships that have lasted for many years. From the launch of 3G to the emergence of 5G, my role has constantly evolved. The rapid advancements, especially with 5G, have propelled our entire department to adapt and stay at the forefront of telecom innovations. My role is largely based around the testing of the antennas required for our structures before they are fitted. This is to ensure they work correctly before deployment.

What is Passive Intermodulation Testing?
PIM testing is vital for ensuring the pristine signal transmission in our modern telecom systems. When two or more carrier frequencies interact within an antenna, undesired signals can arise. To PIM test an antenna correctly, it has to be powered to a high level. Given the potential dangers of the emitted Radio Frequency (RF) in regular conditions, to keep this process safe we conduct tests inside a large anechoic chamber, uniquely lined with foam spikes made of material designed to absorb RF energy. Within this controlled space we use specialised piece of equipment called a PIM analyzing machine which can detect even low-level PIM.
The evolving landscape of PIM Testing

As telecoms transition to 5G, the need for impeccable PIM testing becomes even more pressing. However, with more frequency bands and denser networks, the potential for PIM issues increases. My role, and the importance of PIM testing, will be paramount in identifying and rectifying these issues before deployment, ensuring that 5G delivers on all its promises. As we embrace this new era, staying ahead of PIM challenges will be crucial for maintaining the seamless connectivity we all anticipate.

Team spotlight

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Luke Bradburn

CNC Machine Apprentice

For me, a normal day at Hutchinson is about getting better at what I do, learning new skills, and improving my knowledge in various aspects of engineering. I've always wanted to be in engineering because it's a tradition in my family.

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Dave Hodge

Welding Chargehand

In welding, there's always more to learn. Taking pride in my work and seeking insights from seasoned welders can be a game-changer. I relish the constant learning curve, the joy of improving my welding skills, and the support from management.

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Peter O'Brien

Passive Intermodulation Tester

From the launch of 3G to the emergence of 5G, my role has constantly evolved. The rapid advancements, especially with 5G, have propelled our entire department to adapt and stay at the forefront of telecom innovations.

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Neil Gabbitas

Senior Design Draughtman

Since joining Hutchinson in 2002, I've advanced to the role of Senior Design Draughtsman. I design complex structures for diverse sectors like telecommunications, renewables, oil & gas, rail, and more recently the nuclear industry.

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Aleksandra Jankowska

Welding Engineer

I play a vital role in ensuring that every welding project meets the highest standards of strength, safety, and durability. By developing precise welding procedures, I help guide the process from start to finish.

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