Office of Telecommunications OT Report 77-132
Radio Channel Capacity Limitations
November 1977
R. F. Linfield |
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Abstract: rred over any communications link in a unit of time
depends upon a number of factors—both technological and physical. This report discusses these
factors with emphasis on the fundamental physical limitations of radio channels. The maximum rate
of information transfer over a number of radio communication links is derived and compared with
an idealized system. The results obtained show that at certain signaling rates, dispersion in the
channel, (which is caused by multipath, for example) limits the number of permissible signaling
characteristics that can be changed. This may occur even when only two characteristics are
used—the minimum number required for information transfer. Thus, dispersive propagation
mechanisms limit a binary channel's capacity, and unlike additive noise, this limit cannot be
overcome by increasing the signal power. |
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Disclaimer: Certain commercial equipment, components, and software are identified in this report to specify adequately the technical aspects of the reported results. In no case does such identification imply recommendation or endorsement by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, nor does it imply that the equipment or software identified is necessarily the best available for the particular application or uses. |
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For technical information concerning this report, contact:
Paul McKenna, Electronics Engineer
Institute for Telecommunication Sciences
Voice: (303) 497-3474 or (303) 497-5237
pmckenna@its.bldrdoc.gov
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