Continuous-Wave Propagation Channel-Sounding Measurement System - Testing, Verification, and Measurements

Area of Science:

• Electrical Engineering
• Radio Systems Engineering
• Electromagnetics

Background:

• Channel sounders are crucial for characterizing radio systems.
• Various sounder types exist, each with pros and cons.
• Continuous-wave (CW) sounders offer advantages like larger dynamic range and extended data collection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a CW channel sounder system for radio propagation loss measurements.
• To detail the setup, validation, and verification procedures for reliable measurements.
• To showcase results from measurement campaigns, including repeatability, clutter loss, and reciprocity.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing a continuous-wave (CW) channel sounder system.
• Conducting extensive propagation loss measurements in diverse urban environments across the USA.
• Implementing rigorous validation and verification protocols to ensure measurement integrity.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated the accuracy and reproducibility of CW channel sounder measurements.
• Quantified clutter loss, defined as excess loss beyond free-space transmission.
• Presented reciprocity measurements, indicating signal path symmetry.

Conclusions:

• The CW channel sounder system provides accurate and reproducible radio propagation measurements.
• The established methodology ensures reliable data collection free from artifacts.
• The results contribute to a better understanding of radio wave propagation in urban environments.