Path Loss Prediction for Some GSM Networks for Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria
Path loss prediction for some Global System of Mobile Communication (GSM) networks for Akwa Ibom State in the Federal Republic of Nigeria was undertaken in this study in order to obtain a suitable path loss model for path loss prediction for the State. Received Signal Strength (RSS) and path loss were obtained from MTN and GLO base stations (networks) located in Uyo, Eket, Ikot-Ekpene, Onna, Etinan and Oruk-Anam which are some major towns in Akwa Ibom State. Path loss plots from theoretical models and experimental data against Basic Transceiver System (BTS), mobile device distance, gave positive linear relationships resulting in the proposed path loss model for Akwa Ibom State. Comparative analysis of Mean Square Error (MSE) obtained showed Hata model to be the most reliable and suitable path loss prediction model for Akwa Ibom State. The MSE value for each town was 5.9dB, 4.09dB, 5.93dB and 4.03dB for Uyo, Eket, Onna and Etinan, respectively. It was found that Egli model with MSE value of 5.97dB is suitable for path loss prediction in Ikot- Ekpene due to its irregular terrain. Results also showed that none of the models being considered gave acceptable MSE value for Oruk-Anam. In this case, the proposed path loss prediction model for Akwa Ibom State should be used for Oruk-Anam. The results of this investigation therefore lend credence to the fact that terrain and infrastructural development affect not only path loss, but also the suitability of a given path loss model for a particular environment.
