Investigation of TV Signal Strength at Kwaluseni Campus

Abstract

A field strength meter (an instrument for measuring the strength of television (TV) signals) was designed, built and tested. It was then used in conjuction with a broadside array ultra-high frequency (UHF) antenna to measure the Swazi TV signal strength at different points around the Kwaluseni Campus of the University of Swaziland. Variation in the signal strength at various points of reception were observed to be mainly influenced by the time of day, the terrain of the land, atmospheric conditions and the buildings and thick tall trees in the vicinity. The signal strength at a given location is a guide as to how high the TV antenna should be to avoid obstructing objects like tall trees, buildings, as well as hills.

UNISWA Research Journal of Agriculture, Science and Technology Vol 3 (2) 2000: pp 77-83