Automated Performance Analysis Model for Ground-Wave Communication Systems

Nicholas DeMinco

Abstract: An automated analysis model is presented for the prediction of system performance of communication circuits that use the ground wave as the primary mode of propagation. The computer program Ground Wave Automated Performance Analysis (GWAPA) is a user–friendly program that can predict propagation loss, electric field strength, received power, noise, received signal–to–noise power ratio, and antenna factors over lossy Earth. The smooth–Earth and irregular–Earth propagation loss prediction methods can be used over either the homogeneous or mixed paths. A special antenna algorithm is integrated into the computer program for rapid prediction of antenna performance as a function of antenna geometry, ground constants, frequency, and azimuthal direction for a variety of antennas. A description of the computer program GWAPA, a discussion of its capabilities,instructions for its use, and illustrative sample calculations are included in this report.

Keywords: irregular terrain; MF propagation; mixed path; ground-wave propagation; lossy Earth; smooth Earth; surface waves; ground-wave antenna model

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Disclaimer: Certain commercial equipment, components, and software may be identified in this report to specify adequately the technical aspects of the reported results. In no case does such identification imply recommendation or endorsement by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, nor does it imply that the equipment or software identified is necessarily the best available for the particular application or uses.

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