Frequency Planning

2.2.1 Frequency Planning Objectives

The goal of the frequency planning is to assign the minimum number of
frequencies to MBN�s microwave links with respect to the required link
quality and level of interference in the network [11].
During the frequency planning process many aspects are taken into
consideration. Thinking over the propagation conditions (path length, site
location, terrain topography, and atmospheric effects), a frequency band
that is suitable for the specific case is determined. Within the appropriate
frequency band, the frequency subset that minimizes the mutual
interference (e.g. interference among radio frequency channels in the actual
path, interference to and from other radio paths, interference to and from
satellite communication systems) must be selected. Furthermore, the
selected bandwidth must be enough in order to support the required
capacity.
2.2.2 Frequency Channel Arrangements
The available frequencies are grouped into segments that are called
channels. Depending on the required capacity of the link, every channel has
a specific bandwidth, which defines the maximum number of carriers that
can be supported [11].
20
FDD technique is used to support full-duplex communication in
microwave links. The available frequency band is divided into two equal
halves for transmitting and receiving purpose (Figure 2.2).
The duplex spacing is defined by the difference of the lowest frequency
in the lower half and that of the upper half. The duplex spacing must be
sufficiently large in order to have interference-free duplex communication.