Channel models for IEEE 802.11b indoor system design

Wireless local area networks (WLANs) based on IEEE 802.11b standard are widely deployed to provide network connectivity without being tethered off of a wired network. An accurate planning of indoor radio networks and/or the setup of localization procedures based on IEEE 802.11 requires the characterization of the propagation channel. Starting from experimental data obtained in the campus area of the University of Rome Tor Vergata we evaluated the parameters for different multiwall (MVV) like path loss models. Differently from the standard MW model indicated in the literature, we included losses due to doors and fire proof doors that according to their status, open or closed, may lead to significant contributions to the overall attenuation. The developed channel model was used in a computer simulator for the optimal positioning of the access points inside the campus´ buildings.