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GENERAL PURPOSE LINK BUDGET CALCULATOR


For arbitrary wireless communication radio links, this calculator explains the terms in the link budget and gives the user the opportunity to enter or change the parameters.  Macros invoked by clicking on buttons guide the user through the various options for selecting and entering the parameters.  For definiteness, the calculator uses the Hata outdoor propagation loss model.

The calculator was developed as an Excel spreadsheet application by Leonard Miller.   It uses a new method for calculating the link margin needed to achieve a desired reliability when there is both lognormal shadowing and Rayleigh fading.

SOFTWARE DOWNLOAD FILE
  • Excel spreadsheet: download request form

    • Version 1.24, added reminder to recalculate noise power when rate is changed 1/17/06
    (Complete revision history listed on page 1 of spreadsheet)
Related link: Bibliography on wireless propagation
Project Contact

For inquiries regarding this project, contact Leonard Miller (LMiller at nist.gov).