Intra-building digital communications at 460 and 1300 MHz

The author describes experiences with experimental 460-MHz and 1300-MHz wireless data networks operated within adjoining multistorey steel-reinforced office-type buildings. The experiments have been conducted using a single fixed station and portable stations at various locations within the buildings. The fixed station was moved to compare locating it within a wiring closet or near terminal equipment. The fixed station location was also varied among the floors of the building to compare relative performance. Station transmitter and receiver parameters, including transmitter power, receiver sensitivity, and antenna feedline gain, varied. Antennas compared include standard lambda /4 groundplane, discone, and slot antennas. For operation between the floors, once the power was sufficient to achieve link integrity, operation was reliable. Positional fading was noted, however. Link operation was satisfactory for normal usage.<>