Path-loss prediction model for microcells

Empirical path-loss formulas for microcells in low-rise and high-rise environments are established from measurements conducted in the San Francisco Bay area. Using the 1-km intercepts and slope indexes of the least square fit lines to the measurements at cellular and personal communication services (PCS) frequencies for three base station heights, simple analytic expressions are obtained. Separate formulas are presented for environments of low buildings and for the high-rise urban core. Following the formula development processes for individual test routes, in low-building environments, a single nonline-of-sight (non-LOS) formula that is applicable to all non-LOS routes is derived. Due to the anisotropic property of wave propagation, cell shape of microcells is no longer circular. As examples, cell shape is presented when base stations are on the street in the middle of a block and when they are placed in the backyard.