Software tools for the planning of VHF, UHF and microwave systems

Propagation software tools are an essential part of the planning capability of the GEC-Marconi Research Centre. Several tools have been developed driven by demand for computer assistance with major planning activities. These tools are used for planning area coverage systems and fixed links in the VHF, UHF and microwave bands. All the tools calculate either interactively or in batch mode on a minicomputer and produce graphics output. A common core of software is used by all the programs but different propagation algorithms are used for different classes of radio systems. The development work includes the creation of field strength prediction algorithms, the creation of digital terrain and ground cover databases and comparison of predictions with available measurements to determine prediction accuracy. The authors describe the main features of the software, concentrating on prediction algorithms and their validity