MASc Project Proposal

Project Title Project Proposer Analysis of Radio Frequency Radiation with WIMAX Transceiver Loading Mr Sean Rocke

Project Supervisor Mr Sean Rocke Thematic Group Communications

Project Keywords Radio frequency radiation, RF exposure, WIMAX, Spectrum occupancy

Background
In investigating radio frequency radiation (RFR) at WiMAX transceiver sites, many location-specific, installation, and network parameters can potentially affect RFR levels measured at a particular location. These include co-located transceivers, antenna mounting height, antenna down-tilt, transmitter power, proximity to other transmitting devices, cell loading, sectorization, and spectrum allocation. Analytical and computer-simulation techniques can be used to predict RF levels using models that may not take account of several of the previously listed factors. If an empirical approach is used for site evaluation, measurements may not take account of the above factors either. Through this project the relationship between channel occupancy and RFR levels for a WIMAX transceiver site will be investigated.

Objectives
At the end of this project the student should demonstrate their accomplishment of the following: 1. Comparative analysis of the WIMAX radio layer including spectrum allocations and modulation schemes 2. Development of a taxonomy for characterization of WiMAX transceiver deployments aligned to factors affecting RFR levels 3. Investigation of metrics used in WIMAX transceiver performance evaluation at the radio layer 4. Investigation of spectrum utilization assessment approaches for WIMAX 5. Comparison of WiMAX transceiver site evaluation techniques 6. Development of WiMAx transceiver site evaluation methodology 7. Collection of data, including spectrum data at selected WiMAX transceiver sites 8. Development of a model for the relationship between spectrum occupancy and RFR levels

9. Model testing and validation, using additional empirical data

Implementation and Methodology

Main activities: 1. Investigate relevant fields of practice, such as RF engineering 2. Desk research into WIMAX technologies 3. Experimental setup for investigation 4. Data collection 5. Data analysis (including some programming) 6. Model testing and validation

Summary of Requirements
At the end of ECNG 6021 the student should have acquired knowledge of statistical analysis techniques, spectrum analysis basics, and be able to implement programs in Matlab/Maple. Additionally, the student should have covered all required background research and development of investigation methodology. Ideally the student should be in the data-collection stage. At the end of ECNG 6022 the student should have collected all required data for analysis and should have proposed a model for the relationship between the parameters under investigation. The student should be in the model validation stage. ECNG6023 should be used for ensuring the completion of the objectives and as well as completion of the final report. The above represents the nominal 3-semester path for a student. However, the requirements for a student attempting to complete the project in a 2-semester timeline would be more advanced than the above.

Prerequisite Skills and Knowledge

Basic programming skills (Matlab/Maple experience would be an asset)

General Hardware Requirements

In addition to the use of a Spectrum analyzer, the student should have access to a laptop, tripod (preferably non-metallic and at least 1.5m high), and digital camera for on-site data collection.

General Software Requirements

Data analysis software (Matlab or Maple preferred), Spectrum analyzer software