Measurement and Prediction of Short-Range Path Loss between 27 and 40 GHz in University Campus Scenarios

Abstract

In this paper, we present the results of short-range path loss measurement in the microwave and millimetre wave bands, at frequencies between 27 and 40 GHz, obtained in a campaign inside a university campus in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Existing empirical path loss prediction models, including the alpha-beta-gamma (ABG) model and the close-in free space reference distance with frequency-dependent path loss exponent (CIF) model, are tested against the measured data, and an improved prediction method that includes the path loss dependence on the height difference between transmitter and receiver is proposed. The main contribution of this paper is the use of the Fuzzy technique to perform path loss predictions for short links in the millimetre wave range, from 27 to 40 GHz, providing lower errors when compared to the traditional ABG and CIF models. However, it should be noted that the Fuzzy technique uses a set of equations to perform the prediction and the attenuation coefficient is not explicit as in the classical models. Also, a non-negligible correlation between the difference in height between transmitter and receiver positions and the path loss in such short links (i.e., the path inclination) has been observed and requires further investigation. If confirmed, it could provide an additional parameter to improve the accuracy of the traditional ABG model.