First path component delay measurements in UWB positioning system

The majority of UWB positioning systems rely on the first path component time of arrival measurements. In most systems, positioning algorithms assume that obtained results correspond to direct path component related to the distance between transmitter and receiver. Unfortunately, indoors, first path signal component is often delayed or even blocked by the walls or elements of interior design, what leads to positioning errors. The paper describes experiments focused on the investigation of the first path component delays. It presents the method for propagation time determination and test setup used for measurements. The results of performed tests are shown and discussed.