Land cover / land use data classifies what is on top of the terrain. Our Terrain Analysis Package (TAP™) software uses land cover data to provide more accurate RF propagation models than we could achieve using just bare ground terrain. Click here to learn more about the TAP™ Land Use Module. The land cover data may be used to enhance propagation analyses to two primary ways:
- Loss values may be defined for any frequency ranges for each specified type of land use to permit the inclusion of localized environmental conditions in predicted system performance. Recommended loss values are readily available.
- Land Cover Clutter can be used to raise the terrain along an RF path based on the land cover category. Click here to see a tutorial video of how to include Land Cover Clutter in Propagation Studies.
Click here to read more about the USGS Land Use data program and how TAP™ uses the data to improve critical communication systems: https://www.usgs.gov/centers/eros/news/landsat-work-a-path-better-wireless-communication