RF Propagation Calculators

Professional radio frequency propagation tools for planning mesh network deployments. Based on industry-standard methodologies from VE2DBE Radio Mobile and ITM Longley-Rice models.

Important Disclaimer: AI-Generated Theoretical Framework

This entire website and all its content is an AI-generated theoretical framework created as an exploratory exercise to envision potential pathways to net-zero energy solutions. This is NOT a real, operational network, nor are there any actual plasma forest installations.

All technical specifications, protocols, and implementations described here are speculative interpretations of historical research by Tesla, Mallove, Moray, and others. This project represents hope and vision for sustainable energy futures, not existing technology or proven solutions.

No claims of working devices or energy generation are being made. This is a conceptual exploration and should be understood as such. Any real-world implementation would require extensive scientific validation, engineering development, and regulatory approval.

Generated by AI as a theoretical exercise in sustainable energy visioning. Not investment advice or scientific fact.

Path Loss Models

Free space, two-ray ground reflection, and knife-edge diffraction calculations for accurate range estimation.

Link Budget Analysis

Complete link budget calculations including EIRP, fade margin, and receiver sensitivity analysis.

Fresnel Zone Planning

Calculate required clearance heights for optimal line-of-sight radio links between mesh nodes.

Calculate signal loss in ideal free space conditions

Input Parameters

Formula:
FSPL(dB) = 20log₁₀(d) + 20log₁₀(f) + 32.45
Where d = distance (km), f = frequency (MHz)

Results

Free Space Path Loss
100.05 dB
Wavelength
12.49 cm
Signal at 1W TX
-70.05 dBm
Sources & References

Calculations based on methodologies from VE2DBE Radio Mobile by Roger Coudé

ITM Longley-Rice Model: NTIA ITS

Free Space Path Loss: Wikipedia

Two-Ray Model: Wikipedia

Fresnel Zones: Wikipedia

Understanding RF Propagation

Free Space Path Loss (FSPL)

The fundamental model for signal attenuation in ideal conditions. Signal power decreases with the square of distance due to the inverse square law of electromagnetic radiation.

FSPL(dB) = 20log10(d) + 20log10(f) + 32.45

Where d = distance in km, f = frequency in MHz

Two-Ray Ground Reflection Model

More accurate for terrestrial links where ground reflection creates multipath. Beyond the critical distance, path loss increases at 40 dB/decade instead of 20 dB/decade.

Critical Distance: dc = 4hthr
Far Field: Pr ∝ ht2hr2/d4

Used by VE2DBE Radio Mobile for terrain-aware propagation modeling

Fresnel Zone Clearance

Radio waves don't travel in a laser-thin line. The Fresnel zone is an ellipsoidal region where most signal energy propagates. Obstructions within this zone cause additional attenuation.

r1 = 17.3 × √((d1 × d2) / (f × D))

60% clearance of the first Fresnel zone is typically required for near-free-space propagation characteristics

Link Budget Analysis

The complete accounting of all gains and losses in a radio link. A positive fade margin indicates a viable link with headroom for atmospheric variations.

Prx = Ptx + Gtx + Grx - PL - Lmisc
Fade Margin = Prx - Sensitivity

Essential for planning reliable mesh network node placement

Mesh Network Applications

Node Placement Planning

  • 1. Calculate maximum range between nodes
  • 2. Verify Fresnel zone clearance for obstacles
  • 3. Ensure adequate fade margin (10+ dB)
  • 4. Account for rain fade at higher frequencies

Equipment Selection

  • 1. Choose appropriate TX power for range
  • 2. Select antenna gain for link distance
  • 3. Match receiver sensitivity requirements
  • 4. Consider frequency band trade-offs

References & Sources

Primary Sources

Technical References

These calculators are for educational and planning purposes. Real-world RF propagation is affected by terrain, buildings, vegetation, weather, and other factors not captured in simplified models. Always perform site surveys for critical deployments.