Modeling atmospheric effects on wireless networks

Abstract

Wireless communications infrastructures can extend command and control rapidly across the battle space. This study analyzed signal propagation measurements from an 802.16 link in comparison to effects-based model output. The atmospheric data included in situ measurements, numerical weather model data, and standard profiles routinely used by operators. The network studied was located in a region of highly variable terrain and vegetation in Northern Thailand during the COASTS 2007 field experiments. Received signal data showed a weak correlation with predicted values using Advanced Refractive Effects Prediction System (AREPS) with in situ and model weather data. Additional comparisons with Interactive Scenario Builder (Builder) did now show similar performance as a tactical decision aid using variable propagation conditions.