Propagation models at 5.8 GHz-path loss and building penetration

This paper presents a propagation study at 5.725 GHz-5.825 GHz, within the U.S. Unlicensed National Information Infrastructure (U-NII) band. Propagation path loss is measured at 5.8 GHz in a residential area near Boulder, Colorado. Experimental sets of data are collected for a 100 MHz broadband channel, used to establish a high-speed (T1) data link. A plurality of propagation models are referenced, reviewed and commented upon. Data sets are separated into line of sight (LOS) and non-line of sight (NLOS) subsets, and in each case a suitable model is found to match our measured data. We show in particular that, under certain conditions, and with a LOS/NLOS distinction, the use of widely known models may be extended to a broadband channel at 5.8 GHz. These results are noteworthy since these propagation models were designed for cellular and PCS use at lower frequency and narrow-band channels. Subsequently we study indoor propagation: penetration losses into residences are measured, average and standard deviation values are derived for in-building penetration. These values are analyzed in conjunction with the previous modeling, and lead to guidelines for indoor coverage