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Methods
WinProp includes empirical and semi-empirical models (calibration with measurements possible), rigorous 3D ray-tracing models as well as the unique dominant path model (DPM).
Propagation Models
Propagation models differ based on their assumptions, prediction accuracy and computational resources. Select an appropriate propagation model for the application.
Terrain Models
Different models for macro-cellular prediction exist with differing accuracy and computational resource requirements.
Further Approaches
Approximate the terrain profile in large with simple geometrical objects, use ray optical methods or use empirical models for improved accuracy.

Welcome
Release Notes
See what's new in the latest release.
Get Started
The WinProp Getting Started Guide contains step-by-step instructions on how to get started with WinProp.
Examples
The Altair installation directory contains a collection of examples that shows you WinProp concepts and essentials.
Introduction to WinProp
WinProp is a complete suite of tools in the domain of wireless propagation and radio network planning. With applications ranging from satellite to terrestrial, from rural via urban to indoor radio links, WinProp’s innovative wave propagation models combine accuracy with short computation time.
Typical Workflow in WinProp
View the typical workflows when working with propagation simulations in specific scenarios, how to add a network planning to a propagation simulation, include a receiver pattern, set up a time-variant scenario, include multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) at both the base station and the mobile station, connectivity analysis of sensor networks and optimization.
WallMan
The WallMan component offers a convenient facility to generate and edit vector building databases.
TuMan
The TuMan tool enables you to generate and modify tunnel scenarios.
AMan
Use AMan to generate, edit and analyze a single antenna. Superimpose multiple antennas radiating similar signals to determine the actual antenna pattern while taking into consideration the local environment.
ProMan
The ProMan component includes wave propagation models for different scenarios and network planning simulators for various air interfaces.
Methods
WinProp includes empirical and semi-empirical models (calibration with measurements possible), rigorous 3D ray-tracing models as well as the unique dominant path model (DPM).
- Propagation Models
  Propagation models differ based on their assumptions, prediction accuracy and computational resources. Select an appropriate propagation model for the application.
  - Motivation for Different Propagation Models
  - Terrain Models
    Different models for macro-cellular prediction exist with differing accuracy and computational resource requirements.
    - Required Databases
      Topographical databases (digital elevation model or DEM) are required for the prediction of propagation.
    - Hata-Okumura Model
      The Hata-Okumura model is a simple empirical approach for macro-cellular areas with vertical polarization. This model features a very short computation time.
    - Parabolic Equation Method
      The parabolic equation method efficiently describes diffraction and forward-scattering processes in inhomogeneous terrains.
    - Comparison between the Hata-Okumura and Parabolic Equation Models
      Differences between the Hata-Okumura and parabolic equation models are exemplified in the prediction of shadowing.
    - Further Approaches
      Approximate the terrain profile in large with simple geometrical objects, use ray optical methods or use empirical models for improved accuracy.
  - Urban Models
  - Indoor Models
  - Description of the Output Files and Cell Parameters
  - Literature
Main Applications
In WinProp various air interfaces and applications are pre-defined: broadcasting, cellular, wireless access, WiFi, sensor networks, ICNIRP and EM compliance.
WinProp Utilities
The WinProp utilities consist of the Launcher utility and the Updater.
Appendix
Reference information is provided in the appendix.

Further Approaches

Approximate the terrain profile in large with simple geometrical objects, use ray optical methods or use empirical models for improved accuracy.

There are further approaches to the prediction of the field strength in large areas based on topographical databases.

Replacement Obstacles Technique

Simple geometrical objects represent the terrain profile. An approximation of the terrain profile is obtained by replacing the terrain obstacles by absorbing cylinders, wedges or knife edges depending on the elevation curve considered. This leads to a so-called replacement obstacles technique. Hence the propagation is described as multiple diffraction phenomena where reflections are neglected.

Figure 1. Replacement of the terrain profile by obstacles.

Ray-Optical Methods (Ray Tracing) Using GTD/UTD

For these objects, expressions exist to compute the UTD diffraction coefficients. For efficient computations, algorithms for the multiple diffractions calculation are derived. Forward scattering processes can be considered heuristically.

Empirical Models Considering the Shape of the Individual Obstacles

Based on measurement data and the dominant path above the path loss can be calculated taking the obstacles into consideration. An additional consideration of morphological data is possible by empirical correction factors depending on land usage. Models based on the replacement of the terrain profile by obstacles are available in ProMan.