Comparison of HF Groundwave Propagation Models

Abstract

The groundwave component of high frequency (HF) radio propagation is utilized in both civilian and military applications. A variety of groundwave propagation models exist to predict field strength loss over the transmission path. In this thesis, groundwave field strength predictions were compared for programs which employ such models: GRWAVE, MIXPATH, and ADVANCED PROPHET. A range of parameter values was used to generate predictions for comparison. HF groundwave field strength predictions by PROPHET were 3 to 10 dB stronger than those of the other programs. GRWAVE and MIXPATH field strength predictions were in close agreement, the difference generally being less than 1 or 2 dB. Field measurements of path loss for two AM broadcast frequencies were evaluated by comparison with estimates provided by ADVANCED PROPHET. The measured groundwave field strengths were found to be from 8 dB weaker at short distances to 18 dB stronger at large distances it is recommended that future efforts be directed toward improving and validating the accuracy of the groundwave propagation models used in these programs. It is also recommended that more extensive documentation be developed for GRWAVE. Groundwave, HF Propagation, Mixpath, GRWAVE, Advanced prophet.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jun 01, 1993
Accession Number
ADA273146

Entities

People

  • Celso V. Davila

Organizations

  • Naval Postgraduate School

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Advanced Electronics
  • Energy and Power Technologies
  • Ground and Sea Platforms
  • Space

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Computer Programs
  • Computers
  • Data Transmission
  • Department Of Defense
  • Electromagnetic Wave Propagation
  • Engineering
  • Environment
  • Equations
  • Line Of Sight
  • Military Communications
  • Radio Frequency
  • Surface Waves
  • Tactical Communications
  • Transmission Loss
  • Urban Areas
  • Water
  • Wave Propagation

Readers

  • Acoustical Oceanography.
  • Computational Modeling and Simulation
  • Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) Technology.