Outdoor Channel Modeling at D-Band Frequencies for Future Fixed Wireless Access Applications

Abstract

Fixed wireless access networks at millimeter wave frequencies enable an alternative to fiber-optic installations for providing high-throughput Internet connectivity. In this letter, we present outdoor channel measurements at D-band frequencies ranging from 120 GHz to 165 GHz, contributing to the design of future fixed wireless access networks. We measure angular path loss (PL) for both Line-of-Sight (LOS) and non-Line-of-Sight (NLOS) scenarios and calculate angular spread. We also measure building reflection loss for different angles and building facades. Directional LOS PL equals free-space PL, whereas omnidirectional PL is slightly lower. The angular spread of the LOS measurements is 19.7 degrees. The omnidirectional NLOS PL model has a higher PL and the angular spread increases to 54.4 degrees. Losses up to 11 dB should be taken into account for reflection on a fiber cement or building brick facade. and up to 15.6 dB and 18.5 dB for roughcast and stone bricks. Even though wireless communication via the direct path is preferred, reflected paths can enable high-throughput wireless communication if the direct path is obstructed.