Radio Coverage

Reliable Radio Coverage Starts with Accurate Propagation Analysis

Combine the advanced analysis capabilities of Carmenta Engine to ensure reliable radio coverage through detailed radio propagation analysis. Carmenta Mission Kit equips you with the tools, training, and support needed to succeed.

For Uncrewed Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) to operate effectively and transmit vital data such as photos, videos, and telemetry, reliable radio communication is essential. This communication must be maintained throughout the entire mission, taking into account factors such as terrain, distance, and environmental conditions. In Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) operations, radio planning is far more than a technical detail – it’s a mission-critical capability.

To support mission-critical communication planning, Carmenta Engine can integrate custom propagation models to analyse signal propagation in real-world environments. This proven feature has been integrated into Carmenta UAS Mission Kit using the well-established Longley-Rice radio propagation model.

Detailed Coverage Insights Based on Terrain, Altitude, and Equipment Parameters

The radio coverage analysis in Carmenta UAS Mission Kit provides mission planners with detailed information on areas where UAVs can maintain sufficient signal strength with a Ground Control Station (GCS), based on the UAV’s altitude and environmental conditions. This allows mission planners to design robust and reliable communication strategies that are tailored to each operational scenario.

This analysis is highly configurable, enabling users to adapt the analysis to specific mission parameters.

  • Antenna height
    Adjust the height of the GCS antenna to reflect realistic deployment scenarios and optimize signal reach.
  • UAV flight altitude
    Define the altitude of the UAV either above mean sea level (AMSL) or above terrain, to ensure accurate modelling of signal paths relative to ground features.
  • Emitter and receiver properties
    Customize technical parameters such as transmission power, frequency and receiver sensitivity to match the communication equipment used in the mission.

The image shows use of a radio coverage analysis to display the area (in purple) with sufficient radio coverage.