Empirical path loss models for low power wireless sensor nodes deployed on the ground in different terrains

Sensor nodes deployed In some applications to obtain Information drop to the ground. For these sensor nodes that are on the ground to adequately relay the gathered information to processing center will require accurate propagation model. A comprehensive search of the literature reveals the need for accurate propagation models to support reliable deployments of wireless sensor networks (WSN) in such deployment conditions. This information is essential to support the deployment of large-scale networks as part of the vision of Internet of Things (IoT) systems and mission-critical services. This research provides empirical path loss models for low power wireless sensors deployed on the ground in eight different terrains. The study compares the proposed models with theoretical models to demonstrate their inadequacy in predicting path loss between sensor nodes deployed in these environments. Results show that theoretical models deviate from proposed models by 15 to 49 %. Finally, results also show that models established at low packet error rate and high signal-to-noise ratio are more reliable than those formed without considering these parameters. The provided models, as well as the measured data, can be used for proficient design and deployment of large-scale networks that enable IoT in various similar environments.