Propagation research is being carried out over a broad range of radio frequencies and link geometries used by a variety of communications services. This research involves investigation of tropospheric phenomena (e.g., refraction and absorption) and surface environmental effects caused by terrain, vegetation and manmade obstacles. Much of the work is directed toward the development of better techniques for spectrum management and link design applications. A smaller, but no less significant, portion seeks a better understanding of propagation media and impairment mechanisms.

The increasing demand for wireless communications necessitates the exploration of ways to improve efficiency in the use of the radio spectrum and improve system reliability, and development of techniques to overcome adverse propagation effects. There is strong interest from both industry and the military in using the large transmission bandwidths that are allocated in the 20 to 100 GHz range, but where propagation information for new applications is sparse. At the same time, new wireless services, such as digital broadcasting and digital mobile (terrestrial and satellite) communications, require radio propagation knowledge and channel models in more detail and in different forms than was the case for analog systems.

Propagation experiments and modeling in communication bands, coupled with new applications of approaches such as ray tracing, are important aspects of ongoing work. In particular, new methods are being used extensively in research pertinent to mobile and multipoint systems. This work is useful in the development of techniques and engineering tools that can be applied to improve the design capabilities of future systems.

Further Information:

Dr. David Rogers
Manager
Propagation Research
Tel: (613) 998-5174
Fax: (613) 998-4077
E-mail: dave.rogers@crc.gc.ca