We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.
Abdul Aziz Khan
You want to learn about network planning, especially the Access Network which is most fragile and ever changing part of the fixed and wireless network.
I have been working in the transmission field since last twenty years and I found that there is no basic training of the most commonly used access planning software and the new comers in Transmission planning learn this tool through hit and trial. That is why they are never able to fully utilize their potential.
Read more
You want to learn about network planning, especially the Access Network which is most fragile and ever changing part of the fixed and wireless network.
I have been working in the transmission field since last twenty years and I found that there is no basic training of the most commonly used access planning software and the new comers in Transmission planning learn this tool through hit and trial. That is why they are never able to fully utilize their potential.
Read more
You want to learn about network planning, especially the Access Network which is most fragile and ever changing part of the fixed and wireless network.
I have been working in the transmission field since last twenty years and I found that there is no basic training of the most commonly used access planning software and the new comers in Transmission planning learn this tool through hit and trial. That is why they are never able to fully utilize their potential.
Keeping this in view I have designed this course in order for you to learn the complete tool. Additionally I feel that you need to learn some basic ideas about Network Planning and Microwave Propagation as well. Even though I assume that most of you should have enough background knowledge still I have added some basic information so that no one is left behind.
The course is distributed in the below sections:
Introduction
Basic Network Planning
Microwave Propagation
Configuration of Path Loss
Planning your first link
Where to move forward now
Bonus Section
Tool Quiz
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/1ghxda/learn
What's inside
Learning objectives
- Microwave network planning
- Transmission network planning
- Path loss
- Planning tool
- Basic rf propagation concepts
- Microwave network planning
- Transmission network planning
- Path loss
- Planning tool
- Basic rf propagation concepts
Syllabus
What are different Antenna configurations and there uses?
In this section the students will be able to plan their first link.
Introduction to Section - 5
Read more
Syllabus
What are different Antenna configurations and there uses?
In this section the students will be able to plan their first link.
Introduction to Section - 5
Read more
Hi, Are you a network planner or a university student. Someone working in Telecom Domain or someone trying to switch to Telecom Domain?
I hope you will be eager to learn something good today.
Want to learn everything related to Path Loss?
How to do initial configurations?
What type of Equipment files are supported?
How to Plan your first link and then how to go ahead with the full network?
Bonus videos on advance topics like PTMP, Passive Repeaters, Adaptive Modulation and SD Link planning.
Additionally you will learn some Planning and Propagation background as well.
Then why are you waiting further. Also do share it with your friends. So that they can also get the benefits of it.
In this course the students will learn the below:
Section - 1: Introduction
Section - 2: Basic Network Planning
Section - 3: Microwave Propagation
Section - 4: Configuration of Path Loss
Section - 5: How to plan your first link
Section - 6: How to move forward now
Section - 7: Bonus Section
Section - 8: Quiz
In this Quiz we will check your learning in Section - 2
In this video I have demonstrated how to download SRTM Geographic Data files for path loss, two URLs mentioned in the video are below:
- NASA Web site: https://urs.earthdata.nasa.gov/users/new
- Fetch SRTM: http://www.pathloss.net/fssetup.exe (The file is uploaded in the resource section so that it can be downloaded directly as well)
This is a simple quiz about the tool
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Covers microwave network planning, which is essential for designing and implementing wireless communication systems, especially for professionals in the telecom industry
Explores Path Loss 5, a tool commonly used in the field for access network planning, offering practical skills for those working with fixed and wireless networks
Includes bonus videos on advanced topics like PTMP, passive repeaters, adaptive modulation, and SD link planning, which can help experienced professionals expand their knowledge
Teaches basic RF propagation concepts, which provides a foundational understanding for students studying telecommunications or related fields
Uses Path Loss 5, which may require a license or access that could pose a barrier for some learners, especially those without institutional support
Focuses on Path Loss 5, so learners should verify that this version is still current and widely used in their specific area of network planning
Save this course
Create your own learning path.
Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.
Save
Save
Reviews summary
Practical path loss 5 software guide
According to learners, this course provides a largely positive introduction to the Path Loss 5 software. Students appreciate the step-by-step guides, particularly for configuring the software and planning the first link, finding it a practical and essential resource for newcomers and junior transmission engineers. The course structure is clear and easy to follow. Some feedback notes that while it covers basic network planning and propagation, the depth is primarily focused on tool operation rather than underlying engineering theory. A key point raised is the course's implicit requirement for a Path Loss 5 license to fully participate.
Concentrates on Path Loss 5 software operation.
"This course teaches you exactly what you need to know to start using Path Loss 5 for microwave planning."
"The course covers the tool well enough..."
"This course is essentially a demo of Path Loss 5's basic features... It doesn't teach you *how* to plan... just how to click buttons in the software."
"Highly practical and focused."
Additional topics like PTMP and Adaptive Modulation.
"Bonus topics are great."
"the bonus sections add great value."
"The bonus videos on PTMP and Adaptive Modulation were a nice addition."
Helps beginners configure and use the tool.
"The step-by-step guides on Path Loss 5 configuration and planning the first link were exactly what I needed."
"A complete guide to Path Loss 5 for beginners. I appreciated the structured approach, starting with basics and moving to practical link design."
"Fantastic course for understanding Path Loss 5 from scratch. The instructor breaks down complex topics into manageable steps."
"The step-by-step approach for setting up and planning links in Path Loss 5 is invaluable."
Focus is on tool usage, less on 'why' behind planning.
"It doesn't teach you *how* to plan a network properly, just how to click buttons in the software."
"it's very specific to the Path Loss 5 software itself. It doesn't delve deep into the engineering principles behind the planning decisions."
"Good if you just need to operate the tool, less so if you need to understand the 'why' behind the planning."
Course assumes access to Path Loss 5 software.
"it assumes you already have access to a licensed version of Path Loss 5. This wasn't clear upfront."
"Trying to follow along without the software is difficult."
"Also, the software requirement should be upfront."
"Requires the software license."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Learn Path Loss 5 with these
activities:
Review Basic RF Propagation Concepts
Show steps
Reinforce your understanding of RF propagation concepts to better grasp the principles behind path loss calculations.
Show steps
-
Review textbooks or online resources on electromagnetic wave theory.
-
Practice calculating free space path loss using different frequencies and distances.
Read 'Wireless Communications' by Theodore Rappaport
Show steps
Gain a deeper understanding of wireless communication principles and path loss models.
View
Millimeter Wave Wireless Communications
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read chapters related to path loss, fading, and propagation models.
-
Work through example problems to solidify your understanding.
Calculate Free Space Path Loss
Show steps
Practice calculating free space path loss for various frequencies and distances to improve your proficiency.
Show steps
-
Choose a range of frequencies and distances.
-
Calculate the free space path loss for each combination.
-
Compare your results with online calculators or reference tables.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Explore Advanced Path Loss 5 Features
Show steps
Deepen your understanding of Path Loss 5 by exploring advanced features like multipath analysis and interference calculation.
Show steps
-
Find tutorials or documentation on advanced features.
-
Follow the tutorials to learn how to use these features.
-
Experiment with different settings and parameters.
Create a Path Loss Report for a Simulated Network
Show steps
Apply your knowledge by creating a detailed path loss report for a simulated network using Path Loss 5.
Show steps
-
Define the network topology and equipment parameters.
-
Use Path Loss 5 to simulate path loss for each link.
-
Generate a report summarizing the path loss results and identify potential issues.
-
Present your findings in a clear and concise manner.
Reference 'Microwave Engineering' by David Pozar
Show steps
Consult a comprehensive resource on microwave engineering for a deeper understanding of the underlying principles.
View
Microwave Engineering
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Identify relevant chapters on antenna theory and wave propagation.
-
Review the mathematical derivations and explanations.
Optimize a Real-World Network Design
Show steps
Apply your skills to optimize the design of a real-world microwave network, considering path loss and interference.
Show steps
-
Obtain network requirements and constraints.
-
Use Path Loss 5 to model the network and identify areas for improvement.
-
Adjust antenna heights, locations, and other parameters to optimize performance.
-
Document your design and justify your decisions.
Review Basic RF Propagation Concepts
Show steps
Reinforce your understanding of RF propagation concepts to better grasp the principles behind path loss calculations.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review textbooks or online resources on electromagnetic wave theory.
- Practice calculating free space path loss using different frequencies and distances.
Read 'Wireless Communications' by Theodore Rappaport
Show steps
Gain a deeper understanding of wireless communication principles and path loss models.
View
Millimeter Wave Wireless Communications
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read chapters related to path loss, fading, and propagation models.
- Work through example problems to solidify your understanding.
Calculate Free Space Path Loss
Show steps
Practice calculating free space path loss for various frequencies and distances to improve your proficiency.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a range of frequencies and distances.
- Calculate the free space path loss for each combination.
- Compare your results with online calculators or reference tables.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Explore Advanced Path Loss 5 Features
Show steps
Deepen your understanding of Path Loss 5 by exploring advanced features like multipath analysis and interference calculation.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find tutorials or documentation on advanced features.
- Follow the tutorials to learn how to use these features.
- Experiment with different settings and parameters.
Create a Path Loss Report for a Simulated Network
Show steps
Apply your knowledge by creating a detailed path loss report for a simulated network using Path Loss 5.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Define the network topology and equipment parameters.
- Use Path Loss 5 to simulate path loss for each link.
- Generate a report summarizing the path loss results and identify potential issues.
- Present your findings in a clear and concise manner.
Reference 'Microwave Engineering' by David Pozar
Show steps
Consult a comprehensive resource on microwave engineering for a deeper understanding of the underlying principles.
View
Microwave Engineering
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify relevant chapters on antenna theory and wave propagation.
- Review the mathematical derivations and explanations.
Optimize a Real-World Network Design
Show steps
Apply your skills to optimize the design of a real-world microwave network, considering path loss and interference.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Obtain network requirements and constraints.
- Use Path Loss 5 to model the network and identify areas for improvement.
- Adjust antenna heights, locations, and other parameters to optimize performance.
- Document your design and justify your decisions.
Career center
Learners who complete Learn Path Loss 5 will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Network Planner
Network Planner
A Network Planner designs and implements communication networks, making critical decisions about network architecture, capacity, and technology. This course on path loss helps build a foundation in understanding the intricacies of access network planning, a crucial skill for a network planner. The course's focus on transmission planning, microwave propagation, and the use of planning tools is highly relevant to the daily work of a network planner, who must also take into account physical and environmental factors. Understanding path loss, as detailed in this course, allows a network planner to optimize network performance by correctly configuring and utilizing planning software. A learner should take this course to gain hands-on experience in using the planning tool and gain necessary background in network planning and microwave propagation.
Transmission Engineer
Transmission Engineer
A Transmission Engineer is responsible for the design, implementation, and maintenance of transmission systems, including both wired and wireless technologies. This course directly aligns with the role of a transmission engineer, particularly in its focus on transmission network planning and microwave propagation. The course specifically teaches how to use a planning tool, a key part of this position since Transmission engineers rely greatly on planning tools. The course also covers important topics such as antenna configurations, setting antenna heights, and how to configure path loss. By completing this course, an aspiring Transmission Engineer learns hands-on methods needed for network planning. A learner should take this course to gain insight into critical aspects of the job, such as radio wave propagation, link planning, and how to generate reports.
Radio Network Planner
Radio Network Planner
A Radio Network Planner designs and optimizes wireless networks using radio frequencies; their work ensures efficient and reliable communication services. This course fits well because it covers concepts fundamental to radio network planning, including microwave propagation, path loss configuration, and antenna setup. A radio network planner needs to be familiar with the types of configurations and calculations that this course teaches. The course offers practical exercises such as how to plan your first link, which can be very useful to build skills in the field. This course includes training on using a planning tool and working with equipment files, both of which are important for a Radio Network Planner. A learner should take this course to learn about the basic skills needed to plan a radio network.
Telecom Network Designer
Telecom Network Designer
A Telecom Network Designer plans and designs communication networks, ensuring they meet the needs of customers while adhering to technical standards. This course aligns well with the responsibilities of a telecom network designer due to its emphasis on network planning and microwave propagation. Specifically, the course explains how to plan your first link and provides in-depth instruction on using planning software. A telecom network designer should be skilled in understanding path loss and calculating it, skills directly covered in this course. Additionally, the course delves into configuring and optimizing links, skills vital for a network designer to successfully complete network plans. A learner should take this course to learn about how to use a planning tool and learn the concepts that underlie good planning.
Access Network Engineer
Access Network Engineer
An Access Network Engineer designs, implements and maintains the access network of a telecommunications system. This course is highly relevant for an access network engineer as it covers critical aspects of access network planning, which is the primary focus of their job. The course teaches how to configure path loss and use a planning tool, skills needed to plan and optimize networks. An Access Network Engineer needs to fully understand how to calculate and plan for path loss. The course also includes instruction on microwave propagation, a key factor in access network design. A learner should take this course to understand the background of access network planning.
Wireless Network Engineer
Wireless Network Engineer
A Wireless Network Engineer specializes in the design, implementation, and maintenance of wireless communication systems, including mobile networks and Wi-Fi systems. This course is well-suited for an aspiring wireless network engineer because it provides training in microwave propagation and transmission network planning, both crucial to designing efficient wireless networks. The course covers important subjects such as setting antenna heights, calculating multipath, and optimizing links, all of which are skills that a wireless engineer uses frequently. The course also focuses on using a planning tool, which is a core software for a wireless network engineer. A learner should take this course in order to learn about planning a wireless network from the ground up.
Microwave Engineer
Microwave Engineer
A Microwave Engineer is an expert in the design and implementation of microwave systems; they typically work in wireless communications, radar, and satellite technology. This course helps a microwave engineer by offering the foundations in microwave propagation. The course also includes training on the use of planning tools to configure path loss and plan networks, which is critical to the day-to-day activities of a microwave engineer. A microwave engineer needs to know how to calculate loss and optimize pathways, and the course covers this specifically. A learner should take this course to get an understanding of microwave planning tools.
RF Engineer
RF Engineer
An RF Engineer works with radio frequency systems, designing and implementing wireless communication networks. This course may be useful as it covers important concepts in microwave propagation, a core aspect of RF engineering. The course’s detailed instruction on configuring path loss and planning a first link can help an RF Engineer understand how to properly utilize planning tools for optimizing network performance. An RF Engineer utilizes path loss and microwave basics, so learning the practical side of these concepts in a planning tool will help. The course also includes instruction on topics like antenna configuration and calculation of interference, which are very important for an RF Engineer. A learner should take this course to improve their skills in network planning, which is needed for radio frequency work.
Telecommunications Specialist
Telecommunications Specialist
A Telecommunications Specialist is responsible for the deployment, operation, and maintenance of telecommunication systems and infrastructure. This course on path loss may be useful because concepts such as transmission network planning and microwave propagation are part of a telecommunications specialist's work. This role involves a good understanding of how networks are planned, which this course explains in detail. The course also covers how to configure and optimize links, a skill needed to perform well as a Telecommunications specialist. A learner should take this course to gain familiarity with path loss calculation and basic planning tool usage.
Network Optimization Engineer
Network Optimization Engineer
A Network Optimization Engineer works to improve network performance by identifying and resolving bottlenecks and inefficiencies. This course may be helpful to a network optimization engineer by providing a deeper understanding of network planning, particularly in the access network. The course teaches configuration of path loss, and also how to optimize antenna heights and reduce interference, all relevant to optimizing network performance. The focus on microwave propagation will help a Network Optimization Engineer to better understand signal behavior. A learner should take this course to learn how to use a planning tool to optimize networks.
Telecommunications Engineer
Telecommunications Engineer
A Telecommunications Engineer is involved in the design, development, and maintenance of telecommunication systems. This course might be useful since it provides a good foundation in network planning and radio wave propagation, both essential in telecommunications. The course delves into how to configure path loss and make use of planning tools and configuration files, which are practical skills in telecommunications engineering. The course also covers topics like antenna configurations and setting antenna heights, concepts that are directly related to network planning and implementation. A learner should take this course to gain basic skill with a planning tool and understand the concepts that go into using planning software.
Field Engineer
Field Engineer
A Field Engineer often works on-site to install, maintain, and troubleshoot telecommunication systems. This course may be useful to a field engineer because it provides background in transmission network planning and propagation. The course explains how to perform initial path loss configurations, which will improve a Field Engineer's understanding of network design. A Field Engineer may find the course's instruction on using a planning tool helpful in understanding how the network is intended to work. A learner should take this course to learn more about the planning portion of network deployment.
Systems Engineer
Systems Engineer
A Systems Engineer designs and manages complex systems, often requiring a broad understanding of different engineering disciplines. This course can contribute to the understanding of a Systems Engineer by enhancing their knowledge of network planning and radio wave propagation. By learning how to use a planning tool, the systems engineer gains deeper insight into this critical aspect of the system. Furthermore, the course's coverage of topics like antenna configurations and interference calculation is beneficial for assessing and improving overall system performance. This course may help a systems engineer gain perspective on the planning process. A learner should take this course to enhance their network planning knowledge.
Network Technician
Network Technician
A Network Technician installs, maintains, and troubleshoots network hardware and software. This course may be useful to a network technician because it provides some background on network planning and transmission systems. The course introduces the concept of path loss and gives specific training on how to initially configure it. The use of planning tools, as taught in the course, may be helpful for a technician to learn. A learner should take this course to better understand the planning process for a network.
Project Manager
Project Manager
A Project Manager oversees the planning, execution, and completion of projects, often within the telecommunications sector. This course may be useful to a project manager in telecommunications by providing a general overview of what a transmission network plan entails. The course may provide a helpful look at some of the considerations that need to go into project planning, such as path loss. A project manager may find it useful to learn a bit about a planning tool, giving them an understanding of what the project team is doing. A learner should take this course to get insight into some of the concepts that go into network planning.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/1ghxda/learn
Reading list
We've selected two books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Learn Path Loss 5.
Provides a comprehensive overview of wireless communication principles, including detailed explanations of path loss models and propagation phenomena. It widely used textbook in universities and by industry professionals. Reading this book will provide a deeper understanding of the theoretical foundations behind the Path Loss 5 software. It serves as an excellent reference for understanding the underlying physics and engineering principles.
Provides a rigorous treatment of microwave engineering principles, including antenna theory and wave propagation. While it may be more advanced than required for the course, it serves as an excellent reference for understanding the underlying physics of microwave systems. It is commonly used as a textbook for graduate-level courses in electrical engineering and provides a strong foundation for understanding path loss phenomena.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/1ghxda/learn
Share
Similar courses
Similar courses are unavailable at this time. Please try again later.
Our mission
OpenCourser helps millions of learners each year. People visit us to learn workspace skills, ace their exams, and nurture their curiosity.
Our extensive catalog contains over 50,000 courses and twice as many books. Browse by search, by topic, or even by career interests. We'll match you to the right resources quickly.
Find this site helpful? Tell a friend about us.
Affiliate disclosure
We're supported by our community of learners. When you purchase or subscribe to courses and programs or purchase books, we may earn a commission from our partners.
Your purchases help us maintain our catalog and keep our servers humming without ads.
Thank you for supporting OpenCourser.
© 2016 - 2025 OpenCourser