Multipath propagation is essential in todays antenna world. In an ideal world for wireless communication there would be no object in-between or around the transmitting and receiving antennas. With proper set up and no objects between the antennas, an ideal line of sight can be achieved. However, in the real world there are trees, buildings, hills, etc. that make a perfect line of sight just about impossible. Wireless signals reflect off these objects on their way from the transmitting antenna to the receiving antenna. This creates multiple paths for the signal to travel. This phenomenon is known as multipath propagation.
The receiving antenna receives the transmitted waves via multiple signals because the waves are reflecting off other objects. Therefore, the signal is picked up multiple times. In the figure below there are two “signals” being transmitted. One signal has a direct line of sight. The other signal is being reflected off of another object.
The reflected signal has a longer distance to travel than the direct line of sight signal. This could cause the signals to arrive at different phases and thus, cause deconstructive interference. When deconstructive interference occurs the radio will see a weaker signal from the receiving antenna. It could also cause the signal to drop out completely.
When your cell phone loses all of its available bars, or when your car radio cuts out completely, your issue is most likely multipath Propagation. Most people know, that by moving to a different location, the signal may improve. With multipath propagation, you are moving to a spot where the reflected signals, bouncing off of everyday objects, reaches a magnitude where interference between them is lower. Stay tuned for next week’s #TechTuesday where we discuss how multi-polarized antenna designs, mitigate multipath propagation in wireless deployments!
MP Antenna, LTD. is the exclusive developer and manufacturer of advanced Multi-Polarized antennas. They are well-suited for a range of applications including public safety, wireless broadband systems, WiFi, WiMax, video monitoring systems, 3G, CDMA, GSM, PCS and LTE. The company’s product line improves signal penetration and connectivity in obstructed deployments. This provides increased data throughput, enhanced voice clarity and multi-path mitigation. MP Antenna’s products are protected under numerous US patents with many US and foreign patents pending. MP Antenna is privately held and designs and manufactures its products at their headquarters located near Cleveland, Ohio, USA. Thi