Comparative analysis of mobile radio path loss models for suburban environment in Southern India

Path loss models are widely used in the planning and implementation of a mobile radio system, and to evaluate the quality of service. Path loss indicates the attenuation of the radio signal as it propagates through various terrain conditions. Empirical path loss models for mobile systems are largely used in research due to their high speed, and improved accuracy. This paper estimates the path loss of mobile signals, recorded during a set of experiments performed in the areas around Osmania University at Hyderabad city in southern India. The data is collected in the frequency range of 940-950 MHz, within the coverage area of the base stations, by using suitable outdoor equipment. The field strengths obtained, are used to calculate the path loss. Least square regression analysis is performed on the measured values, and the results are compared with path loss computed from standard empirical models such as Cost-231 Hata model and Stanford University Interim (SUI) channel model. The performance of the path loss models are evaluated in terms of mean prediction error, and average relative error. Compared to Least Square analysis, the average relative error is 5.56% for SUI model, and 39.72% for Cost 231-Hata model. The lesser values of mean prediction error and relative error of the SUI model, suggests that it is more suitable for the specified environment.