Calculation of Data Rates for Varying Scenarios Using Free Space Path Loss and Okumura-Hata Model in the TVWS Frequency Band

Abstract

Path loss models can be used to obtain the path loss for a signal transmission. This information can be utilized to obtain the received power which in turn can be used to identify the maximum possible data rate that can be transmitted. This paper uses the free space path loss equation and the Okumura-Hata model to obtain the data rates. The Okumura-Hata model's equations are used to create numerous `scenarios' which vary from large to small-to-medium urban, sub-urban, and rural regions. The Television White Space (TVWS) frequency band is used, which ranges from 470-790 MHz. Data from a commercially available White Space Device (WSD) manufacturing company is used to calculate received power. The transmission end will comprise of a commercially available omnidirectional antenna and the receiving end will comprise of two different antenna types: a commercially available log-periodic antenna and a fabricated microstrip antenna. All the antennas are designed for the TVWS band. The results suggest that the antennas are better suited for smaller urban settings rather than dense urban regions and are quite ideal in rural regions. The research sheds light into how TVWS technology is useful in rural regions, and how microstrip antennas, with their smaller size, lighter weight, and easier fabrication procedures, is a strong contender for WSD use.