Assessment and Development of Path Loss Propagation Model for Ikire Metropolis, Nigeria

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to assess and develop path loss propagation model for terrestial radio broadcasting station in Ikire, Nigeria. In carrying out the study, the reception quality of Osun State Corporation (OSBC) broadcast signal strength within Ikire metropolis in Irewole Local Government Area of Osun State, Nigeria was assessed using BC1173 Field Strength meter. The data obtained from the signal strength measurements around the metropolis were subsequently analysed and used for the development of an ideal propagation path loss model for the metropolis. The developed path loss model for the metropolis was evaluated and found to outperform the COST-231 Hata model in literature. The comparative performance evaluation result of the developed model and the COST-231 Hata model buttresses the need for developing different path loss models for different radio signals in different locations under different environmental factors. In addition, the finding of the study establishes a standard propagation path loss model that can be used for planning and designing efficient wireless communication link for terrestrial radio broadcasting station in the metropolis and any other environments with similar environmental factors.