Microwave scatters evaluation for indoor/outdoor broadband coverage and data transmission

Abstract

This study focuses on the investigation of microwave scatter for data transmission relay to extend the signal coverage whether indoor or outdoor for non-line-of-sight (NLOS) applications. This provides an economic solution to improve broadband access to subscribers in remote places. A series of CW measurements over 29-30 GHz was conducted indoor at an intersection of two hallways in presence of a microwave scatterer such as flat surface metallic reflector. Also measurements were carried outdoor to target an office building in the campus of the CRC. Whether indoor or outdoor, Results show that microwave scatter provides better signal coverage and data throughput. Its strength depends strongly on the scatterer's type and surface. Results also indicate that, for systems operating at a short range, microwave scatter provides an alternative to LOS systems, cables or the use of retransmission systems. The measurement system involves a new evolutional method of providing phase coherence between transmitter and receiver where both transmitter and receiver are connected by means of a single-mode optical fiber cable.