EFFECT OF MOUNTAINOUS TERRAIN ON RADIO WAVE RECEPTION IN THE UHF FREQUENCY BAND, IDANRE AS CASE STUDY

Abstract

The research is focused on the effect of mountainous terrain on radio wave reception at UHF band. Since the wave in the high frequency range travels straight from the transmitter to the receiver, it is limited by the line of sight: This implies that reception at this frequency range may be disturbed by factors such as Hills, Mountains, Trees, foliage, and high-rise buildings. Hence, television signal reception in hilly areas surfers from ghosting and noise. Despite the high antenna used, television subscribers in the valley areas, behind the high mountain, (shadow region) receive very poor signal. Idanre is chosen as the case study due to its topographical situation, which could be referred to as the worst case in Ondo State. The line of sight distance from the chosen broadcasting station to the selected areas and the height of the obstructing hills were determined. Spot height above sea level measurements were taken. Measurements of signal field strength and quality of the picture signal were carried out round the town and its environs using the appropriate field strength meter. Then, Fourier analysis method is used to analyse the results obtained to show the impact of rnultipath and reflection off the hills on the quality of the picture signal received on the signal field strength meter. The result obtained here could then be applicable to other areas of similar topography like Akoko and Okegbo/Ileoluji areas of Ondo State, though there might be slight variations in the results obtained due to distance from the transmitter and the topography of area.