Pathloss determination using Okumura-Hata model and spline interpolation for missing data for Oman

Imprecise propagation models lead to networks with high co-channel interference and a waste of power. In this paper, we aim to adapt a propagation model for Salalah (OMAN) as we examine the applicability of Okumura-Hata model in Oman in GSM frequency band. The study was carried out for urban area, since measurements provided from Oman Mobile were about the urban areas. The study helped to design better GSM network for the city area. We will accomplish the modification by investigating the variation in pathloss between the measured and predicted values, according to the Okumura-Hata propagation model for a cell in Salalah city and then finding the missing experimental data with spline interpolation. Then, we intend to modify the Okumura-Hata model according to the results obtained in our investigation. We will then verify our modified model by applying it for other cells and conclude the results. For the purpose the mean square error (MSE) was calculated between measured path loss values and those predicated on basis of Okumura-Hata model for an open area. The MSE is up to 6dB, which is an acceptable value for the signal prediction. Therefore, the model gave a significant difference in an open area that allowed necessary changes to be introduced in the model. That error was minimized by subtracting the calculated MSE (15.31dB) from the original equation of open area for Okumura-Hata model. Modified equation was also verified for another cell in an open area in Oman and gave acceptable results. Theoretical simulation by Okumura Hata Model and the obtained experimental data Is compared and analyzed further using a piece-wise cubic spline to interpolate on the set of the experimental data and finding the missing experimental data points.