Propagation measurements at 28 GHz to investigate the performance of local multipoint distribution service (LMDS)

Abstract

This paper presents the results of a propagation measurement campaign at 28 GHz in Brighton Beach, Brooklyn, to investigate the performance of local multipoint distribution service (LMDS). LMDS could be used to provide wireless access to fixed networks providing services ranging from one-way video distribution and telephony to fully-interactive switched broadband multimedia applications. These measurements provide valuable information on the coverage limitations imposed by path loss in an operational LMDS environment. The measurements investigated path loss characteristics and the presence of specular reflections as a function of antenna height. The measurements indicate that building blockage is a major limitation on the ability to cover a particular location. Strong signals were only received at locations where a line-of-sight path was available between the transmitter and receiver. In addition, at many locations, the signal disappeared completely as the antenna was lowered below the roofline of a building directly between the transmitter and receiver. Specular reflections were detected at many locations, but the presence of reflected signals did not significantly increase the number of locations where strong signals were received.