Abstract:
This thesis describes research undertaken as an initial step in the development of a nationwide land mobile coverage area prediction model for New Zealand. The most suitable approach is shown to be a computer-based method which includes corrections for both environmental and terrain features. Extensive field trials performed in Auckland at 76 and 465MHz to develop a propagation data base are described. Measurements have been made in a variety of environments over unobstructed, obstructed and mixed land-sea paths. An analysis of these measurements indicates that, subject to the availability of suitable topographic and environmental data bases and with the exception of two special cases, a plane earth based prediction method is suitable for incorporation in a nationwide land mobile coverage area prediction model for New Zealand. Recommendations are made for the implementation and further development of this model.