Comparative Analysis of Cellular Radio Wave Pathloss in Urban Sub-Urban and Rural Environments

Accurate path loss characterization is essential for wireless network design and optimization. This study compares radio wave path loss in urban, suburban, and rural environments based on field measurements at 1870 MHz in Lhokseumawe, Indonesia. The Log-Distance Path Loss model was used to estimate the path loss exponent and average path loss. Results show that received power decreased and path loss increased with distance. Average path loss values were 103.897 dB, 146.791 dB, and 155.589 dB for urban, suburban, and rural environments, respectively. The findings highlight the importance of site-specific measurements for accurate propagation modeling and wireless network planning.