Spatial distribution of frequency modulated signals in Uyo, Nigeria
UJ Ekah, AO Adeniran, OE Shogo
Abstract
The kernel of this study is to x-ray the extent of radio coverage of two Frequency Modulated (FM) radio stations (AKBC 90.5MHz and Passion FM 94.5MHz), both located in Uyo, Nigeria. Measurement of signal strengths were carried out across 14 locations using a digital spectrum analyzer. A GPS app was used to take measurements of distance, elevation, longitude and latitude. The collected data was analyzed in the form of scattered plot, contour plots, bar charts, graphs and correlation analysis. For AKBC, good reception was received by users at locations N, C, L, and F. For Passion FM, excellent reception was obtained at locations N, F, A and B. For both stations under investigation, location N had the best reception while location E had poor reception. To establish the effects of Line of Sight (LOS) distance on signal strength, correlation values of – 0.84 and - 0.67 were obtained for AKBC and Passion FM. For signal strength against elevation, 0.71 and 0.55 were the correlation values obtained for AKBC and Passion FM. This shows that an increase in distance from the transmitting antenna led to a decrease in reception while an increase in elevation led to an increase in reception. Existing and intending radio stations in Uyo, are advised to increase the height of their transmitter and transmitting power for better reception and coverage.