When building a wireless network, non-free space loss (transmission distance) is often encountered. Which of the following types of loss include? (Multiple choice)

Question

Options

• Areflection
• BDiffraction
• CScattering
• DTransmission

• A
  100% (48)

Explanation

All four options describe real-world wireless signal impairments that occur beyond simple free-space path loss, which only accounts for signal spreading over distance in an open, obstacle-free environment. Reflection (A) happens when signals bounce off large surfaces like buildings or the ground, creating multipath interference. Diffraction (B) occurs when signals bend around sharp edges or obstacles, allowing coverage in shadowed areas but at reduced power. Scattering (C) happens when signals strike objects smaller than the signal's wavelength - such as rain, foliage, or rough surfaces - causing energy to disperse in many directions. Transmission (D) refers to signal attenuation as waves pass through materials like walls, glass, or floors, and is sometimes called penetration loss. Since all four are correct, there are no distractors to dismiss.

Memory tip: Use the acronym "RDST" - Reflect, Diffract, Scatter, Transmit - and picture a radio wave navigating a city: it reflects off a skyscraper, diffracts around a corner, scatters off a tree, and weakens as it transmits through a concrete wall. Any real-world wireless environment involves all four.

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