Comparison of signal coverage for mobile radio systems in the 150, 410 and 850 MHz bands

This paper presents the results of a propagation study done in a treed rural environment, and compares the coverage areas in the 150, 410 and 850 MHz bands. The field measurements were done in Alberta utilizing one of Alberta Government Telephones radio relay sites, as the transmitting site. Initial tests in 1979 were limited to less than 20 km distance due to the non-availability of high power transmitting equipment in the 850 MHz band. Established computer projection programs were therefore utilized to project the coverage beyond that range. These computer projections were later verified by the use of high power transmitters in 1981. The results indicated a significant coverage penalty for the use of 850 MHz instead of 410 MHz. Optimum coverage was achieved at 150 MHz.