A simplified method for calculating UHF base-to-mobile statistical coverage contours over irregular terrain

Abstract

The paper describes a simplified procedure based on the use of the FCC F(50,50) signal strength charts to provide an approximate determination of the statistical coverage contours for a UHF base-to-mobile radio system operating over irregular terrain. Appropriate adjustments are included in the procedure to account for mobile antenna height-gain variations, signal strength reduction due to shrubbery, trees, etc. in the immediate vicinity of the mobile units, signal strength reduction due to terrain variations differing from a Δ h of 50 meters, and signal probability requirements differing from 50 percent. Procedures are also discussed for estimating the net signal-strength probability characteristics due to two or more contours of known probability.