Geospatial Coverage and Signal Quality Measurements of Terrestrial DAB+ Network in Northern Poland

Abstract

Modern signal coverage maps are prepared based on industry-standard radio propagation models, which take into account a number of parameters, including: type of antenna, distance from the transmitter, type of terrain, etc. However, such simulations are prone to location-specific inaccuracies, and should be verified with in-situ measurements. This paper presents results of a field test of a terrestrial DAB+ (Digital Audio Broadcasting plus) network in the metropolitan area of the Tricity, the largest agglomeration in Northern Poland. Obtained results were compared to previously generated radio signal coverage maps. The study shown that terrain topology has a profound impact on signal strength, and should be more accurately implemented in coverage modeling, particularly in order to provide a stable and reliable high-quality connection.