Microwave Site Selection in Undeveloped Country

This article discusses a method by which microwave systems are laid out in rugged undeveloped country, where maps alone cannot be used to indicate path clearance. The first step is to gather all available information and, by careful study of the topography, to lay out several possible microwave routes. The next step is to conduct a methodical low level aerial survey by means of inexpensive light aircraft, making descriptive notes of the proposed relay sites and measuring the height of all hills on or close to the propagation line. If the first plan fails the height data obtained contribute to a more enlightened second plan and the process is repeated until an attractive system develops. A third step is necessary in order to establish tower heights and assure that sites picked out from the air are practical from an installation viewpoint. Field parties carrying simple equipment visit the sites and conduct additional tests, on the basis of which tower heights are computed and construction parties are able to move in.