Issue link: https://resources.randsim.com/i/1449540
Quick Summary - RF Signal Propagation RF signal propagation is the way radio waves travel—or propagate—from antennas functioning as either transmitters or receivers: ► Transmitters generate radio waves and send modulated signals such as audio, video, or digital data ► Receivers accept radio waves and demodulate the signals into their respective waveform (data bitstream, audio, video) The Case for Simulation Whether you are communicating life-saving information or facilitating a gamers' convention, the reliability of the Wi-Fi signal is important. Distance, antenna locations, and material in the wave's path, such as turf, walls, glass, and plastic will impact the strength of the wave. To gain the benefits desired from a wireless system, you must characterize the RF path to ensure the system will deliver and/or receive the data quickly and clearly. This is often performed in the form of an RF Link Budget. An RF Link Budget takes into account antenna gains, the frequency of operation, receiver sensitivity, transmit power, and distance of travel. The challenge arises when the RF signal does not take a direct path from the transmitter to the receiver. Traditionally, this pitfall is often realized during field testing of the antenna installation. This often leads to a costly and lengthy iterative approach of testing multiple placement locations on-site until a sufficient coverage is attained. To prevent this occurrence from happening during a wireless installation, a better method of evaluating the true RF link budget should be considered. Simulation is the answer. Through engineering simulation solutions, a 3D model of your facility will be uploaded into a virtual environment where you can test numerous scenarios, placing different types of antennas in different locations, identifying problems, gaining insight, making informed adjustments, and confirming viability prior to field deployment. With this simulation process, you will be prepared to rapidly optimize your wireless system with the right: ► Types of antennas for your facility ► Number of each type of antenna ► Placement and positioning of each antenna Why Ansys Simulation Software? Ansys HFSS (high-frequency structure simulator) is the premier 3D electromagnetic simulation software for designing and simulating high-frequency electronic products, including antennas, antenna arrays, RF or microwave components, and printed circuit boards. SBR+ (Shooting Bouncing Rays) is a tool within HFSS software used to predict installed antenna performance. Together, Ansys HFSS and SBR+ will help you reduce design development time while boosting reliability and performance. High-level Example The facility – A large stadium with obstacles that impact wave transmission, such as metal bleachers, turf, glass windows, cement walls, and plastic kiosks The challenge – Ensuring visitors in all areas can access the free wireless they are installing to help boost attendance The need – Understand how RF signals propagate in the environment to ensure an optimal antenna placement