Joseph E. Farrow and Susan L. Rothschild

Abstract: This report provides a description of and operating instructions for Digital Line–of–Sight (DLOS) programs. These programs, which run on a desk–top computer, automate the calculations involved in design of line–of–sight microwave radio relay paths. The programs manipulate information about Earth geometry, terrain profiles, ray paths, median basic transmission loss, variability of loss, equipment effects, and path performance. The computer hardware and software configurations are designed to be convenient to operate and to give the design engineer immediate access to calculated results corresponding to changes in design parameters. The programs are intended to be used interactively by persons having no experience in programming. The algorithms may be applied over a wide range of path parameters. The frequency range is from 1 GHz to 10 GHz; the path length may be up to 200 km; and the path must have adequate terrain clearance. The results of the calculations are given in terms of the requirements of MIL–STD–188–323.

Keywords: computer software; digital radio; microwave radio; radio relay; MIL-STD-188-323 requirements; radio path performance

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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