A Practical Understanding of RF Propagation
Our Introduction to Radio Frequency Propagation course provides participants with an accessible and practical understanding of how radio signals travel through terrestrial, atmospheric and satellite environments.
Introduction to Radio Frequency Propagation
26-27 November 2026
The two-day Introduction to Radio Frequency Propagation course provides participants with an accessible and practical understanding of how radio signals travel through terrestrial, atmospheric and satellite environments. Beginning with essential concepts—including electromagnetic waves, frequency bands, polarisation, noise, decibels, reflection, refraction and the influence of the atmosphere and Sun—the course builds the foundation needed to understand the opportunities and limitations of radio communications.
Participants explore the principal RF propagation modes: ground wave, surface wave, skywave and scattered wave. The course explains the physical mechanisms behind each mode, the conditions that affect signal range and reliability, suitable planning approaches and representative applications. Topics include radio path loss and capability, path-profile analysis, diffraction, clutter, atmospheric loss, abnormal refraction and ducting, satellite and mobile channels, ionospheric behaviour, frequency planning, troposcatter, ionospheric scatter and meteor-burst communications. The relationship between propagation modes and antenna characteristics is also examined, including antenna gain, bandwidth, radiation patterns, arrays and antennas used for HF, VHF, UHF and satellite communications.
Examples and practical exercises reinforce the material and help participants connect propagation theory with real communications scenarios. By completing the course, participants will be better equipped to recognise the propagation mechanisms affecting a radio link, understand the factors that influence coverage and performance, contribute to link-planning discussions and make more informed decisions about radio communications systems.
No previous technical or engineering expertise is required. The course is ideal for anyone seeking a clear, structured introduction to RF propagation or greater confidence when working with radio, mobile, satellite or other wireless communications systems.
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