Factors affecting the use of over-the-horizon links in telecommunication networks

The scatter propagation mechanism has placed a new tool in the hands of the communication engineer. Long spans with great reliability have become feasible, and a supporting technology of high-powered transmitters, huge antennas and multiple receivers is available. In order that scatter circuits be used to full advantage as integral parts of the communication structure, more than determination of acceptable performance standards is required. It is necessary to assess the extent to which these links can be incorporated in existing facilities, and can supplement existing techniques.