Modelling the simulcast radio transmission

Simulcasting is a total area coverage technique expected to play a significant role in the new generation PMR systems. This paper provides a detailed model and a simulation analysis for the radio channel experienced under a simulcast coverage scenario. Specifically the developed model can evaluate the levels of simulcast interference whilst incorporating the time dispersive nature of the encountered propagation conditions. To this end the impact of the standardised propagation channels in the new pan European PMR system, TETRA, is fully assessed and reported. Moreover, the extracted model is utilised in quantifying the effect of such network design parameters, as the transmitter separation and the propagation path loss exponent on the expected quality of the link, thus providing guidelines for the deployment of a simulcast network. Finally the RMS delay spread of the simulcast channel is identified as a suitable parameter to characterise the most critical spots of the area covered.