Propagation modelling for indoor wireless communication

It is important to characterise the indoor radio propagation channel to ensure satisfactory performance of a wireless communication system. Site measurements can be costly; propagation models have been developed as a suitable low-cost alternative. The existing models can be classified into two major classes: statistical models and site-specific propagation models. Statistical models rely on measurement data; site-specific propagation models are based on electromagnetic wave propagation theory. The ray-tracing technique is very useful in site-specific propagation modelling. This paper gives an overview of indoor propagation modelling and concentrates on a discussion of the ray-tracing modelling technique because of its practical appeal and its applicability to any environment.