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ITU Terrain Model
ITU Terrain Model
The ITU terrain loss model is a radio propagation model that provides a method to predict the median
path loss for a telecommunication link. Developed on the basis of diffraction theory, this model predicts the
path loss as a function of the height of path blockage and the First Fresnel zone for the transmission link.[1]
This model accounts for obstructions in the middle of the telecommunication link, and therefore, is suitable
to be used inside cities as well as in open fields.
Coverage
Frequency: Any
Distance: Any
Mathematical formulation
The model is mathematically formulated as:
Where,
= The height difference (negative in the case that the LOS path is completely obscured)
(m)
To use the model, one computes the additional loss to each path obstruction (A). These losses are summed
and then added to the predicted line of sight path loss which is calculated using Friis transmission equation
or a similar theoretical or empirical model.
Limitations
This model is considered valid for losses over 15 dB and may be valid for losses as low as 6 dB. In the
event that the loss is less than 6 dB or is negative (i.e., gain), this A-value should be discarded.
This model's output is only as good as the data on which it is based and the LOS model it is used to correct.
See also
Egli model
Radio propagation model
Longley–Rice model
References
1. Seybold, John S. (2005). Introduction to RF propagation (https://archive.org/details/introducti
ontorf00seyb). John Wiley and Sons. pp. 144 (https://archive.org/details/introductiontorf00se
yb/page/n162)–146.