Experiences in building an open area test site

The author discusses experience gained from the construction of an open-area test site (OATS) in an urban area with high ambient radiofrequency wave levels. It is shown that a high-quality site (as determined by site attenuation measurements) can be achieved by adhering to basic design practices and using conservative design practices when uncertain. The design approach taken to minimize site anomalies while minimizing OATS cost is discussed. Site attenuation performance as measured by the method given in ANSI Standard C63.4 is given for measurement setups with 3- and 10-m separation distances. Construction details are given