Fundamental Concepts: Propagation in Free Space.- The Surface Wave.- The Sky Wave.- The Space Wave.- Noise.- Examples of Microwave Systems.- The Effect of Materials on Propagation.

Understanding the propagation of radio waves in the vicinity of the earth’s surface can be quite complex, especially if detailed theoretical knowledge is required. The transmission path is complicated by atmospheric, tropospheric and ionospheric - fects, and the earth’s surface itself, and other obstacles, can interact with the passage of radiation between a transmitter and receiver. Time of day and season of the year can also be important. A full treatment of these aspects usually requires a detailed understanding of electromagnetic theory and Maxwell’s celebrated equations and yet many prac- tioners, even electrical engineers, may not have that background in suf cient depth. Nevertheless, with the proliferation of wireless applications, particularly in the VHF and UHF ranges, there is often the need for the non-specialist to gain a working knowledge of the properties of radio waves and how they are affected by factors such as those outlined above. That is the purpose of this book. It treats the essential elements of radio wave propagation without requiring recourse to advanced elect- magnetic concepts and equations; however it provides suf cient detail to allow those concerned with wireless systems to acquire quickly a practical working knowledge of the important concepts.