DESIGN OF FREQUENCY MODULATION RADIO SERVICE FOR THE FEDERAL UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY, AKURE COMMUNITY

Abstract

Communication is an important aspect of human life. As man continues in his daily life, the need to continually communicate, acquire and share information becomes more obvious. It then becomes important and necessary to be more information conscious not only in the content but as well as the speed of its transfer. This work centers on the design of a broadcast Frequency Modulation Radio Service for the Federal University of Technology, Akure Community which could later be integrated into the community's existing communication network in order to reduce communication problems and improve information dissemination within the community. The whole work in general involved topographical study of FUTA Community, spot coordinates and height measurements, visual inspection and measurement of signal strength of some neighbouring FM stations. The results of these studies and measurements were used to recommend suitable transmitting location and antenna height; to develop appropriate model for field strength distribution prediction and evaluation of transmitting parameters such as radiated power, radiation pattern, polarisation, transmitter power, antenna gain and operating frequencies specifications. with a view to recommending appropriate broadcast equipment Also, antenna design by hardware modeling and software simulation for the recommended radiation pattern was carried out. A model of a suitable broadband antenna system was tested (It 1400 I\1Hz using Antenna Lab System and Discovery Software Antenna Instruments 2.50. The designed antenna for the actual service band (VHF II band) and its array of 3 antennas was simulated on WIN-NEC Antenna Analysis 1.0 and radiation characteristics generated and examined. A 3, 5- element Log Periodic Dipole Antenna array orientated in West- East and South direction with equal amplitude and co- phased excitation on 3.0metres free standing steel tower erected on Obanla Sports Complex ridge would produce satisfactory radiation pattern and horizontal polarisation. A minimum radiated power (EIRP) of 15W is adequate for the community.