Measuring characteristics of microwave mobile channels

A description is given of the application of a high resolution (6 ns) pseudo-random noise (PN) channel probe for evaluating the transmission character of a land-mobile communication channel. Preliminary measurements were performed at a microwave frequency in a number of locations in Boulder, Colorado. Examples of data are presented which characterize the frequency correlation of the channel transfer function, and provide additional information on the spectral distortions caused by multipath. The data processing and analysis techniques are emphasized in the report, as they are ideally suited to developing a useful statistical summary of channel parameters. The methods are rapid, and are made from data recorded in standard analog magnetic tape in the field locations. It is recommended that a wideband channel characterization program be undertaken in the near future before spectrum congestion precludes obtaining useful data.