Ray tracing as a design tool for radio networks

Efficient radio ray tracing programs developed particularly for reflector-rich environments are described. These image-based, dual-grid, scalar, coherent, ray tracing programs generate maps, (two-dimensional slices) of three-dimensional standing wave patterns for continuous wave illumination. The calculated maps are used to estimate system coverage quality in a macroscopic sense and to investigate design alternatives regarding antenna beamwidths, boresight orientations, spatially averaged signal strengths, and so forth. The programs run fast enough on engineering workstation to support indoor radio system design, but not fast enough for interactive use. Examples are given to illustrate the use of the programs.<>