Causality&Prediction of Radio Frequency Encroachment on Test&Training Ranges

The project goal is to build a software tool to predict man-made signals and RF noise levels at large distances (km"s) from the sources to enable management of the RF environment at DoD test ranges. These test ranges have a low level of man-made noise, which is critical for the testing of various DoD SIGNIT, communications and jamming systems. As urban development increases in the areas surrounding the test ranges, the level of man-made signals increases in a complex and hard to predict manner. The tool estimates the increase of the RF noise within the DoD range, enabling DoD to work with local policy makers and with the developers to either limit the growth or to impose restrictions on the equipment located near the range. The tool also interfaces to network simulation tools to provide either man-made noise levels or man-made noise waveforms. This enables higher fidelity simulation and the ability to develop modems and algorithms to counter the noise. The project leverages existing dynamic spectrum sensing and access technology developed under DARPA XG program, existing urban spectrum measurement tools deployed for the National Science Foundation and current works in wireless microphone detection for TV white space applications.