Spatio-temporal variability analysis of the wideband microcellular environment

This paper reports initial results obtained from a comprehensive wideband UHF radio channel measurement programme conducted in Bristol, UK. Measurements were made both at single locations and along roads in a dense urban area, constituting a microcell, using a high-resolution swept time-delay cross-correlator sounder (STDCC). The measurements were repeated to provide data on both short- and long-term temporal and spatial variability and repeatability of the channel. This provides bounds on the meaningful prediction accuracy of deterministic cellular planning tools. A novel high resolution volume aperture measurement technique provided radio images of the environment thus supplying detailed information regarding the modes of propagation between transmitter and receiver. As the measurements provide a complete description of the radio channel, the results can be used in the design and testing of key transceiver sub-systems such as equalizers, RAKE receivers and multi-user detectors (MUDs).