Interference Filters for Robust VHF/UHF Communications in Densely Foliated Regions

The work described in this proposal is intended to lay a foundation for the development of filtering technology that would be used in VHF and UHF tactical radios and which would greatly improve the reliability of communications in densely foliated regions.It is intended that these software filters would mitigate the effects of multipath scattering from foliage. The filters would be implemented as part of an external modification package (applique), would cost about $200 per unit, and would improvesignal-to-noise performance by better than 20 dB. Therefore, for a relatively low price, and with an additional weight of around 2 lb, reliable VHF/UHF fixed and mobile communications could be established over 10 to 15 km distances through heavily forestedareas and in areas where path loss makes communications marginal. The commercial applications of this technology are manifold. Commercial wireless companies would benefit from the availability of an inexpensive method for increasing the range andreliability of their equipment in heavily foliated regions. Mobile, aeronautical and maritime VHF and UHF radio manufacturers would also benefit from the technology that is the intended product of this research and development effort. The ability toprovide enhanced reliability and extended range in commercial transceivers would clearly be an advantage to all companies in the RF communications business.