Probabilistic Omnidirectional Path Loss Models for Millimeter-Wave Outdoor Communications

TL;DR

This paper introduces a probabilistic omnidirectional path loss model for 28 GHz and 73 GHz millimeter-wave outdoor communications, incorporating real-world measurements and environmental factors to improve accuracy.

Contribution

It proposes a novel probabilistic model that combines line-of-sight and non-line-of-sight conditions using a weighting function based on environmental data.

Findings

Probabilistic model matches traditional models in accuracy.

Model effectively incorporates environmental information.

Both LOS and NLOS models yield similar results.

Abstract

This letter presents a probabilistic omnidirectional millimeter-wave path loss model based on real-world 28 GHz and 73 GHz measurements collected in New York City. The probabilistic path loss approach uses a free space line-of-sight propagation model, and for non-line-of-sight conditions uses either a close-in free space reference distance path loss model or a floating-intercept path loss model. The probabilistic model employs a weighting function that specifies the line-of-sight probability for a given transmitter-receiver separation distance. Results show that the probabilistic path loss model offers virtually identical results whether one uses a non-line-of-sight close-in free space reference distance path loss model, with a reference distance of 1 meter, or a floating-intercept path loss model. This letter also shows that site-specific environmental information may be used to yield the probabilistic weighting function for choosing between line-of-sight and non-line-of-sight conditions.