Site Specific Propagation Model Development

Propagation models are used to inform scientists and engineers on how radio propagation through an environment will affect the radio signal received on the other end of the link. Many propagation models have been developed: some are curve-fitting models, some are based on the physics of the propagation path. Some models have been developed that incorporate the presence of vegetation and man-made structures (clutter) to more closely approximate measured data. However, no model thus far predicts path loss in all environments (urban, suburban, rural, forested, etc.). This paper introduces various propagation models and compares them to measured data. In the end, we present another predictive model that includes objects within the first Fresnel zone as a predictor for a more inclusive propagation model.