Microwave radio network design is a subset of activities that constitute the overall transmission network design. Transmission networks are sometimes called transport networks, access networks, or connectivity networks. For many wireless carriers, microwave is becoming a popular preference over wireline (leased lines) transport for many reasons, especially as microwave radio equipment costs decrease and installation becomes simpler. Low monthly operating costs can undercut those of typical single (and especially multiple) T1/E1 expenses, proving it to be more economical over the long term usually two to four years. Network operators also like the fact that they can own and control microwave radio networks instead of relying on other service providers for network components.

Most people in the telecommunications field, especially transmission engineers, project managers, and network planners in wireless systems, should have at least a basic understanding of the planning, design, and deployment process of the microwave network.

For clarity and technical correctness, we should be very clear and consistent in the terminology used throughout this book. It is important to remember that not all microwave systems are point-to-point, and not all point-to-point systems are microwave. Although many principles are common to other microwave systems, this book predominantly deals with the terrestrial microwave point-to-point systems in 2 to 60 GHz.

This book covers all stages of terrestrial microwave point-to-point network build-out from initial planning and feasibility studies to real system deployment. Emphasis is given to practical guidelines and activities involved in putting microwave system into operation. It describes the process...