Path loss model for radio wave propagation at VHF/UHF Bands using electric field strength measurement over Ilorin Middle-belt, Nigeria

Propagation models are useful tools for communication system planning and optimization of the radio spectrum which is a limited natural resource. An investigation on the suitable propagation model for Ilorin (8°30´N, 4°33´E), a sub-urban area in the Middle-belt of Nigeria is presented here. Experimental data consists of electric field strength obtained through drive test for two television transmitters on 203.25 MHz and 583.15 MHz. Validated predictions for Free space, Okumura and Hata models were compared analytically. Result shows that these empirical models neglect the actual terrain profile for television broadcast in Ilorin. Okumura model stands as the most suitable with optimal values of root mean square error (RMSE) and average relative error of 0.1319 and 0.4447 for 203.25 MHz and 583.15 MHz respectively. Better results can however be obtained if Okumura model is optimized for Ilorin to enhance electric field strength prediction and coverage estimation.