Getting

Started
With HTZ communications

Technical Assistance
Table of Contents
TABLE OF CONTENTS ....................................................................................................................................... 2

1. LIMITED WARRANTY ............................................................................................................................. 8

2. INSTALLATION ........................................................................................................................................ 8

2.1. Hardware and Operating System Requirements ............................................................ 8

2.2. Licensing and Operating Modes .................................................................................... 8

2.3. Installation of HTZ communications............................................................................... 9

3. INTRODUCTION TO HTZ COMMUNICATIONS .............................................................................. 9

3.1. Launching HTZ communications.................................................................................... 9

3.2. Project concept ............................................................................................................ 10

3.2.1. Project Organization – Layers ........................................................................................... 10

3.2.2. Handling Layers and Projects – Project Manager ........................................................... 11

3.2.3. Creating a Project .............................................................................................................. 12

3.2.4. Download maps ................................................................................................................. 14

3.2.5. Elevation Resampling ........................................................................................................ 18

3.2.6. Loading Projects ................................................................................................................ 19

3.2.7 Modifying Projects ............................................................................................................. 19

3.3. Graphical User Interface............................................................................................... 20

3.3.1. Display Area ....................................................................................................................... 21

3.3.2. Layer Display Mode ........................................................................................................... 24

3.3.3. Display Area in 3D ............................................................................................................. 27

3.3.4. Main Menu ......................................................................................................................... 28

3.3.5. Palette Area ........................................................................................................................ 30

3.3.6. Status Bar ............................................................................................................................ 31

3.3.7. Stations tree view ............................................................................................................... 31

3.3.8. Control Buttons .................................................................................................................. 32

3.4. Graphical Menu Bar ..................................................................................................... 32

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 3.4.1. Databases Button / LISTS / SQL ....................................................................................... 33

3.4.2. Latest Coverage Button ..................................................................................................... 33

3.4.3. Threshold and Limits Settings Button .............................................................................. 34

3.4.4. Height Mode Settings Button ........................................................................................... 34

3.4.5. Quick Network Analysis ..................................................................................................... 34

3.4.6. Buttons Mode..................................................................................................................... 37

3.4.7. Drawing Tools Buttons ...................................................................................................... 37

3.4.8. Coverage Calculation and analysis Button ...................................................................... 38

3.4.9. Path Profile ......................................................................................................................... 38

3.4.10. Project Selector Button...................................................................................................... 39

3.4.11. Zoom Options Button ....................................................................................................... 39

3.4.12. Overlay ON/OFF ................................................................................................................ 39

3.4.13. Display Refresh and Reset Buttons................................................................................... 39

3.4.14. Map Layer dialog ............................................................................................................... 40

4. MANIPULATING THE CARTOGRAPHY ........................................................................................... 40

4.1. Geographic Projection (Grid Code) .............................................................................. 41

4.2. Resolution .................................................................................................................... 42

4.3. Layers Superposition.................................................................................................... 43

4.4. Handling layers in Projects ........................................................................................... 43

4.4.1. Using maps in Display Area .............................................................................................. 44

4.4.2. Change Area / Resolution ................................................................................................. 45

4.4.3. Inserting External Maps ..................................................................................................... 45

4.4.4. Managing maps ................................................................................................................. 46

5. NETWORK ELEMENTS ........................................................................................................................ 47

5.1. Functional Types .......................................................................................................... 47

5.2. Iconography of Element’s Symbol ............................................................................... 49

5.3. Subscribers .................................................................................................................. 50

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5.4. Object Properties ......................................................................................................... 51

5.4.1. Site Color ............................................................................................................................ 52

5.4.2. Labels .................................................................................................................................. 52

5.4.3. Tx/Rx directivity .................................................................................................................. 52

5.4.4. Icon ..................................................................................................................................... 52

5.4.5. Zone around Tx/Rx ............................................................................................................ 52

5.4.6. Vector files .......................................................................................................................... 52

5.4.7. Subscribers ......................................................................................................................... 52

5.4.8. Databases ........................................................................................................................... 53

5.4.9. Interference/overlapping .................................................................................................. 53

5.4.10. Label Display ...................................................................................................................... 53

5.4.11. Interference Off .................................................................................................................. 53

5.4.12. Reference country .............................................................................................................. 53

6. BUILDING NETWORKS FROM ELEMENTS ..................................................................................... 53

6.1. Network Creation Modes ............................................................................................. 54

6.2. Tx/Rx Mode ................................................................................................................. 54

6.2.1. Tx/Rx Elements Setup Modes ........................................................................................... 54

6.2.2. Installing Network Elements with Mouse ........................................................................ 56

6.2.3. Specify/Modify Parameters of Network Element ............................................................ 56

6.2.4. Specifying Network Element Antenna Parameters ......................................................... 57

6.2.5. Install Network Element at Given Coordinates ............................................................... 65

6.2.6. Move a Network Element.................................................................................................. 65

6.2.7. Copying Network Elements .............................................................................................. 66

6.2.8. Duplicate a Network Element ........................................................................................... 66

6.2.9. De-activate/Isolate/Activate a Network Elements .......................................................... 67

6.2.10. Deleting network elements ............................................................................................... 67

6.3. Microwave Mode ......................................................................................................... 68

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 6.3.1. Install a Microwave Link with Mouse ............................................................................... 68

6.3.2. Install a Microwave Link by Specifying Coordinates of Two Ends ................................. 68

6.3.3. Move a Microwave Link..................................................................................................... 69

6.3.4. Delete a Microwave Link ................................................................................................... 69

6.3.5. Path Budget of Microwave Link........................................................................................ 69

6.4. Link Mode.................................................................................................................... 70

6.4.1. Create a Link between Network Elements ....................................................................... 70

6.4.2. Specify/Modify Link Parameters ....................................................................................... 70

6.4.3. Display Profile of a Link ..................................................................................................... 70

6.4.4. Changing the Link color .................................................................................................... 71

6.4.5. Delete a Link ....................................................................................................................... 71

6.5. Path Mode ................................................................................................................... 71

6.5.1. Create Path on the Map .................................................................................................... 71

6.5.2. Specify Mobile Parameters ............................................................................................... 72

6.5.3. Saving Path to Disk File ..................................................................................................... 73

6.5.4. Delete Path ......................................................................................................................... 73

6.6. Managing Installed Network Elements ......................................................................... 73

7. PATH PROFILES ................................................................................................................................... 74

7.1. Path Profile between Two Points on the Map .............................................................. 75

7.2. Path Profile between a Network Element and a Point on the Map .............................. 76

7.3. Path Profile between Two Network Elements .............................................................. 76

8. CALCULATING COVERAGE ............................................................................................................... 76

8.1. Propagation model ...................................................................................................... 77

8.2. Clutter Parameters ....................................................................................................... 79

8.3. Distance for Calculations ............................................................................................. 80

8.4. Coverage Threshold..................................................................................................... 81

8.5. Running the Coverage Calculations ............................................................................. 82

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8.6. Coverage calculation optimization............................................................................... 83

8.6.1. Calculation distance ........................................................................................................... 83

8.6.2. Resampling factor .............................................................................................................. 84

8.6.3. Grid step ............................................................................................................................. 84

8.6.4. Clutter filter......................................................................................................................... 85

8.6.5. Remote simulation ............................................................................................................. 86

8.7. Coverage Analysis........................................................................................................ 86

9. INTERFERENCE ANALYSIS AND FREQUENCY ASSIGNMENT ................................................... 91

9.1. Interference Analysis .................................................................................................... 91

9.2. Frequency Assignment ................................................................................................ 93

10. PRINTING .............................................................................................................................................. 96

10.1. Print map ..................................................................................................................... 97

10.2. Print Layout ................................................................................................................. 99

11. APPENDIX ........................................................................................................................................... 103

11.1. Multi-maps .................................................................................................................103

11.1.1. Multi-map Editor.............................................................................................................. 103

11.1.2. Preparing .RIM files in Batch Mode ................................................................................ 106

11.1.3. Using Multi-Map in a Project .......................................................................................... 106

11.2. Interference Rejection Factor (Net Filter Discrimination) .............................................107

11.2.1. Concept of IRF / NFD ...................................................................................................... 107

11.2.2. User-defined IRF Mask .................................................................................................... 109

11.2.3. IRF Matrix Manually Specified......................................................................................... 110

11.2.4. IRF Matrix Calculated with IRF Calc ................................................................................ 110

11.3. User Preferences .........................................................................................................112

11.3.1. Antennas ........................................................................................................................... 112

11.3.2. Stations ............................................................................................................................. 113

11.3.3. Interference ...................................................................................................................... 114

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 11.3.4. Palette / Display ............................................................................................................... 115

11.3.5. Coordinate Units .............................................................................................................. 115

11.3.6. Subscribers ....................................................................................................................... 115

11.3.7. User interface ................................................................................................................... 116

11.3.8. Buttons .............................................................................................................................. 117

11.4. Folder structure ..........................................................................................................117

11.5. File Types related to HTZ communications .................................................................118

11.6. Online documentation ................................................................................................120

11.7. Grid codes and DATUM list .........................................................................................121

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1. Limited Warranty
HTZ communications software and this manual are subject to the limited warranty conditions as
specified by the general operating license of the whole package. ATDI reserves the right to modify this
guide without warning.

2. Installation
2.1. HARDWARE AND OPERATING SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS
The recommended configuration to run HTZ communications is:

− x64 multicore (Intel™ I7 or better CPU) with 4 cores minimum

− RAM: 16GB and more (minimum 4GB)
− Graphics adapter with memory of 2 GB, OpenGL compatible, Full HD Display (1920 x 1080).
− Graphic card: 2GB, OpenGL compatible, Full HD (1920*1080)
− Hard disk: SSD 1To or more. Storage: 2 TB.
− Internet access (for map download and access to the online library).
− Microsoft Office™ x64
− X64 Operating systems: Windows™ 7, Windows™ 8, Windows™ 10, Windows Server™ 2012,
Windows Server™ 2016, Windows Server™ 2019.
The current version of HTZ communications is 64-bit and works fine on 64-bit Microsoft Windows™
operating systems. However, some components like HCM module, MFC DAO or SCRIBE could not be
64-bit based to maintain compatibility.

Operating File Usable

Multi-core
system management memory
32-bit 64-bit ≤ 4 GB Yes
64-bit 64-bit ≤ 128 GB Yes

From version 16.2, HTZ communications supports multicore, multithreading and parallel processing.
Several and concurrent HTZ communications working sessions could be run from one single
computer.

FIPS encryption is not compatible with our tools.

2.2. LICENSING AND OPERATING MODES

HTZ communications can be used on a single computer locally (standalone mode) or in several
computers attached to the LAN network (multi-licenses and multi-users mode).

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In the multi-licenses mode, the application is installed on a server that gives access to a specified
number of simultaneous users.

2.3. INSTALLATION OF HTZ COMMUNICATIONS

When updating, it is recommended to uninstall previous versions of HTZ communications from the
PC before installing the update. The program can be provided either as ANSI or UNICODE version.

Installation guides for standalone and server modes are to be found using the following links:
www.atdi-group.com/Software_Upgrades/DownloadLink/HTZ Software Activation.pdf
and www.atdi-group.com/Software_Upgrades/DownloadLink/HTZ License Server.pdf

3. Introduction to HTZ communications

HTZ communications is a powerful radio planning tool, providing all required functionality to design,
optimize and evolve radio or microwave links networks: terrestrial, maritime, aeronautical and air-
ground-air.

3.1. LAUNCHING HTZ COMMUNICATIONS

To start the program press button and then select: ‘ATDI Software → HTZ communications’.

Alternatively open Windows Explorer™ and navigate to the installation folder of HTZ communications,
then double click the executable ‘HTZcx86 / HTZcx64’ (x86 / x64 ANSI version) or ‘HTZcx86U /
HTZcx64U’ (x86 / x64 Unicode version) to run the program.

After launching the program, the splash screen shows up for a few seconds, providing basic information
about the product.

Figure 1 – HTZ communications start screen

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3.2. PROJECT CONCEPT
Once the user opens HTZ communications, the Strartup Project is loaded as shown below:

This project can be used only for:

- Accessing the Map download Manager to select a given cartographic dataset with the
rectangle tool (see below);
- Selecting an already existing project that appears with flags on the map.

DO NOT USE THIS PROJECT FOR CALCULATION PURPOSES!

A new project can be created from the "Project manager" window that is called from "File/Project
manager...". A project in HTZ communications is the structure that combines layers, networks elements,
simulation parameters, and the set of technical features on the desired area. Understanding the concept
of a project is crucial for optimizing the work with HTZ communications.

3.2.1. PROJECT ORGANIZATION – LAYERS

The project – working space of HTZ communications – is stored on the computer disk as file with .PRO
extension. The file (binary) stores the links to other files containing information used to build and
analyze an RF network.

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 Figure 2 – Filetypes and layers in a HTZ communications project

The file containing the digital elevation model (.GEO; .RGE; .MGE; .IC2) is the only mandatory layer
to create and load a project.

3.2.2. HANDLING LAYERS AND PROJECTS – PROJECT MANAGER

The Project Manager window allows easy handling of layers involved in projects. To access the Project
Manager window, go to the menu file on the top left then select ‘’Project manager’’.

Figure 3 – HTZ communications Project Manager

On the left side of Project Manager (Area Number 1), the list of Recent Projects can be found. The status
of the project indicates whether the project definition is valid or not. In the latter case, there may be a
problem with paths or existence of files. Buttons below the list of recent projects allow the user to select
the project for loading, remove individual projects from the list, or to clear the records.

The links to all layer files defined in project, are displayed within the Project Content List (Area Number
2). The status of each file is shown as well as its size and compatibility with the DTM file in cartographic
layers. The buttons below this list let the user clearing individual paths or browsing through Windows TM
Explorer to select the desired file(s).

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The right side of the Project Manager window (Area Number 3) presents a screenshot for the latest state
of the project. Namely, as soon as a part of the project is modified by adding or modifying a layer, a
screenshot showing the status of the project is saved in a BMP file. This file is then displayed in the
Project Manager unless no preview is available.

Finally, buttons below the preview area allow the user to:
− Download a new set of cartographic from the Map Download Manager (see http://data.atdi-
group.com/doc/Map%20Download%20Manager.pdf):

− Open the Multimap editor (see http://data.atdi-group.com/doc/Multimap%20editor.pdf).

− Create a New Project file, clearing the layer list.
− Save the project with the specified layers.
− Cancel (close) the Project Manager window.
− Load the project with the specified layers.

If the option ‘Force memory swap’ is checked in the Project Manager Window, HTZ communications
will use the disk memory in parallel with RAM, to optimize the usage of the latter. Activating this option
may help in projects that are automatically resampled to lower resolution due to excessive size of
cartographic layers.

3.2.3. CREATING A PROJECT

New projects can be set up from Project Manager window. Creating a project means setting paths to
cartographic files and other files required to run network simulation (parameter files, network files, etc.).

The user here has 2 options to create links to individual files involved in a project:

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 1. By setting individual paths
– double click on an item to
browse the file or use
‘Browse’ button. Click
‘Remove’ button to clear an
item.

2. By dragging and
dropping files onto the
Content area of the Project
Manager window. Use
‘Explorer’ button (for drag
and drop)’ intended at
Drag and drop
convenient file access
through Windows Explorer. Figure 4 –Creating a project using drag and drop for layers from, Windows
Explorer
- Click ‘Save project’ to save the links in a .PRO file

- Click ‘New project’ to clear the Content area and set up a new project

The projects are displayed on the Startup project according to their location by flags as shown in the
image below, and by clicking on a particular icon, the user can load the project or remove it:

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 Figure 5– Projects icon on Startup project

3.2.4. DOWNLOAD MAPS

HTZ Communications allows the user to directly download a dataset to start a project, to do that there
are two options:

1. From the Project Manager Window: Click on “download” to open the Map Download Manager
window. Select the map of interest, click on the arrow sign, then go to the ’’Downloads’’ tab on
the top right. Once the download is complete, go the destination directory and drag the file to
HTZ main screen as shown on Figures 6-9:

Figure 6 – Download map from the project manager window

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 Figure 7 – Maps list

Figure 8 – Opening the file in the explorer

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 Figure 9 – Drag the file to HTZ

2. From HTZ Communications Startup project: Using the interface where the World map is displayed,
the user can download the dataset of the desired zone:
Go to ,and click on “select rectangle area”;
• Select the zone to download;
• Left-click and select “download maps” to open up the Map Download Manager containing maps for
the selected rectangle.
• Select the map of interest, click on the arrow sign, then go to the ’’Downloads’’ tab on the top right.
Once the download is complete, go the destination directory and drag the file to HTZ main screen.

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 Figure 10 – Select the desired area

Figure 11 – Download maps

In addition, the cartographic data can be directly downloaded online using any web browser from the
client CRM account. Go to the Download Map tab, then follow the instructions displayed on the
webpage.

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 Figure 12 – Maps list

More information in http://data.atdi-group.com/doc/Map%20Download%20Manager.pdf.

3.2.5. ELEVATION RESAMPLING

DTM resampling factor is 1 by default, which means HTZ communications loads the cartographic layers
at maximum resolution. However, if is not possible to get the appropriate amount of memory (RAM),
the software automatically adjusts resampling factor so that the project can be loaded. The user can
check at what resampling factor the project is loaded from ‘Project Properties’, ‘Reduction factor’ field
by using <F3> key or reading SF info at main window title bar.

To speed up project loading and simulation time (with less accuracy), it is possible to modify DTM
resampling factor with a value greater than 1 in the DTM resampling edit field, located in the upper

right corner within the Content area of the project manager window .

The DTM file used in the project is resampled by user specified factor as well Clutter, and Building layers
if they are available. The image file is not resampled, and it is loaded at original resolution.

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3.2.6. LOADING PROJECTS

Loading a project can be done:

- Through Project Manager.
- From the main menu by opening the project file (.PRO).
- By dragging and dropping from the Windows Explorer the .PRO file.

Loading through Project Manager

The bottom area of the Project Manager window contains Recent Projects list. Click on the desired
project to display the attached links in the Content Area. Alternatively, highlight a project and click on
‘Select’ button. Finally, click ‘Load’ button to open the project into workspace.

A Project that is not listed in Recent Projects could be read directly by pressing ‘Open project’ button
and selecting the desired .PRO file. Its layers’ links are displayed in the Content area.

After a fresh installation of HTZ communications, the list of Recent Projects is empty and is populated
with projects on which user worked. Click ‘Remove from list’ to clear selected item or ‘Reset list’ to clear
entire list.

Checking the Status and cartography layers Compatibility column is important before creating a project.
Only valid projects can be loaded and the user must verify paths and if the Status column is invalid.
Moreover, if resolution and projection between cartographical layers are incompatible, the project may
not be loaded or loaded partially. For example, if the projection data of .GEO file is different from the
projection of other layers, only .GEO file is accessible after open the project. In case of .IMG file
incompatibility, an error message shows up and the link to the file is removed from the project.

All cartographic files should have the same grid code (projection) and it is recommended to keep the
same .GEO / .SOL / .BLG files resolution to avoid inaccuracies. In spite of this, the .IMG file resolution
can be better than .GEO layer one. More info please refer to 4-MANIPULATING THE CARTOGRAPHY.

Note: The above restrictions don't apply to compressed formats and Multimap layers.

Direct Loading from Main Menu

Use ‘File → Open project’ to browse for the *.PRO file and load it into memory. HTZ communications
only opens valid projects with compatible cartographic layers.

3.2.7 MODIFYING PROJECTS

The link to files containing each layer in the project can be modified through Project Manager window.
Select the project and then follow the instructions for creating a new project to make the desired
modifications. Click ‘Save’ button to save the project file either under the same or different name.

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3.3. GRAPHICAL USER INTERFACE
The main window of HTZ communications consists of:
1. Main Menu
2. Display Area (map)
3. Map layer information bar above the display area.
4. Palette area below display area.
5. A status bar at the bottom.
6. A vertical graphical menu bar on the left.
7. Stations tree view on the right.
8. Coverage & control buttons in the higher right corner.

Just after the project is loaded, the GUI displays either the image layer or – in case image is not
used for the project – the elevation layer.

Figure 13 – HTZ communications main screen

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Elevation layer displayed:

Figure 14 – Digital Terrain Model DTM

3.3.1. DISPLAY AREA

The Display Area is the working space of HTZ communications. It represents the map of the zone where
a user could design the network.

Figure 15 – HTZ communications Display Area and main workspace

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In this region, the user may:

- Visualize cartographic layers - background images, DEM, clutter, buildings, vectors in two or three
dimensions (actually for 3D visualization an additional layer in separate overlaid window is used),
- Watch the graphical progress of simulation (unfolding) in real-time
- Examine results of simulations that are superimposed onto the active cartographic file
- Install network objects and links in a visual manner. Objects are the subject for simulations.
The geographical extents shown by the Display Area depend on zoom level, which can be easily adjusted
by:

- The mouse wheel: Zoom in/out from the cursor location used as center point.
- Zoom button from graphical menu bar (see section 0-
- ZOOM OPTIONS Button)
Use <BACKSPACE> key or menu command ‘Map → Map area → Maximized, Display coordinates,
Display profile’ to switch between the following modes:

- Maximal Display Area (Maximized) – default.

- Additional coordinate axis on top, left, and rectangular grid (Display coordinates).
- Simplified path profile graph on top (Display profile).

Display Maximized Area

Go to menu ‘Map →
Map area → Maximized’.

Figure 5 – Display Area maximized

Figure 6 – Display Area with
coordinates
Figure 16 – Display Area maximized
Figure 7 – Display Area with simple
profile

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 Display Area with
coordinates and grid –
option. Menu ‘Map →
Map area → Display
coordinates’.

Figure 17 – Display Area with coordinates

Display Area with a

simplistic profile on top
– option.
Menu ‘Map → Map area
→ Display profile’

Figure 18 – Display Area with simple profile

Finally, it is possible to use anchors (North, South, East and West) around Display Area to open shortcuts,
as Figure 19 shows. To use this feature, pass the mouse over each anchor and their corresponding
window shows up. The user can activate/deactivate North and South anchors through Dynamic map
selector option in Preferences dialog (see 11.3 USER PREFERENCES).

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 North= Map selector (same as F4 key)

West = Report of number of de-activated stations;

South= Display options (see
Number of stations free from interference. This number is related 5.4 Object Properties)
to the interference OFF option;
Number of stations in database (total);
Number of MW links in database (total); East= Last commands
Number of subscribers in database (total); (same as space bar)
Clicking on active legend opens coordinates conversion dialog.

Figure 19 – Anchors in Display Area

3.3.2. LAYER DISPLAY MODE

By using <F4> key, it is possible to change the way the layer is displayed. Depending on which layer is
visualized in the Display Area, different modification rules are applied as following options.

Note: Selected option is displayed in the window with ‘>’ symbol before name.

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 It allows to visualize
different layers loaded in
the project such as
elevation model, map
image, clutter, buildings
and results.
In addition, the user can
choose between
superposition of these
layers, e.g. DEM + results.
If a layer is not available,
the option is deactivated
with a black shadow.
Figure 20 – Layer display mode: Base map Layer

Figure 8 – Layer display mode: Base map Layer

When the user selects map
image as base layer, it is
possible to choose
between different map
providers such as Google
Maps, Bing Maps, Here,
and so on, or specific
cartographic collection
from Geoportals which is
available in some countries
(Poland, France, Spain,
United States, etc.)
To select, click on the
provider and type of map
you want. The map is
Layer display mode: Map Type loaded automatically in the
display area.

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 Allows selecting the way in
which layers are drawn and
colors used. Also, it lets
adjusting DEM heights from
terrain, clutter layers,
buildings or the
combination of all.
Besides, this option offers
to switch between
maximized, grid or map +
profile display modes, as
shown in section 3.3.1
Display Area.
Finally, it is possible to
Layer display mode: Rendering enable, draw as isometrics
projected onto the ground
or hide the vector layer.

Horizontal sliders permit

changing color effects in
displayed map, as well
transparency and graphic
intensity of superposed
layers, in particular
between DEM and the
map one.

Layer display mode: Map color correction

Clicking 'Preview ' button

activates automatic
window hiding, allowing to
see changes in map
immediately. If option it is
disabled, Map Layer
window closes after layer is
selected.
Button 'Recall result
overlay' displays contextual
menus to add results
graphic layers such as
coverage, interference,
radar coverage, among
others. The 'Map options'
Layer display mode: Buttons and menus button shows options to
make by default or refresh
the current map, among
others.

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3.3.3. DISPLAY AREA IN 3D

HTZ communications displays in 3D the different layers. There are 2 modes of 3D:

- Static (only available in x86 release).

- Real time.

3D presentation in real time may consume a significant amount of RAM and processing resources.

In both cases, it opens a new window containing the 3D view.

Before activating 3D display – real time mode – select the ‘Map Layer’ option from ‘Map → 2D Display’
main menu.

To open 3D display – real time mode, from main menu

click on ‘Map → 3D display...’. A 3D display window
pops up to confirm use of building file during
construction of model. The user can alternatively
specify an external file to model building layer or use
the current vector layer. Finally, click ’OK’ to open 3D
display window.

Figure 21 – 3D real time display area

Options dialog in 3D real time display area, presents improvements to 3D model such as plot map on
building roofs, plot only terrain but not map and enable clutter layer. Besides, it is possible to analyze
paths when user has defined previously a path (see section 6.5 Path Mode). Press <F7> key or go menu
‘View → Path Perspective’ to start virtual trajectory from route.

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 Figure 22 – 3D real time path perspective

3.3.4. MAIN MENU

Figure 9 – Main Menu Bar

In HTZ communications, main menu is dynamic during network design. Submenus could change depending
on different items and situations within the project. More details on preferences can be found in APPENDIX
11.3.7 - USER INTERFACE.

Any command in menu followed by 3 dots, e.g.’ ’ means that a dialog or other window is
associated with the function and it shows once it is clicked. In this example, the Project Manager window will
show up.

Furthermore, HTZ communications admits menu configuration. Please refer to the document
http://data.atdi-group.com/doc/Menu%20configuration.pdf
Geographic East / West Coordinates in meters, decimal degrees or
degrees-minutes-seconds, depending on cartographic settings.

Geographic North / South Coordinates in meters, decimal degrees or

degrees-minutes-seconds, depending on cartographic settings.

Terrain elevation read from digital elevation model in meters.

Clutter code and clutter name if defined in the clutter options.
Max. Height (clutter, building) in meters.

Number of stations located below the current point.

Distance in km, feet, miles or meters (click button to select) and TOA in µs

3 angles in degrees: Azimuth, Elevation and Dynamic declination.

These angles are computed from the reference point (F2 key).

Results of analysis, this field may display other units, e.g. best server
number, time of arrival in µs, radar detection height in m. etc.

Power received or FSR in V/m. This field can also display other results
in other units depending on the current result.
Figure 23 – Information box and tool icons

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Map layer information bar resides on right of Display Area. The values shown are read from layers
loaded in the Display Area and are corresponding to the current cursor location (dynamic display).

Additionally, quick access buttons allow the user to open tool dialogs to change parameters related
with cartography, stations, propagation models and coverage.

Coordinate conversion dialog (see Section 4.1.Geographic Projection (Grid Code))

Site coordinates dialog (Section 6.2.5.Install Network Element at Given Coordinates)

Preferences (see Section 11.3. User Preferences)

Clutter parameters (See Section 8.2.Clutter Parameters)

Clutter parameters (See Section 8.2.Clutter Parameters)

Station list

Distance unit selector (Km, miles, meters)

Declination / North variation settings

Propagation model (See Section 8.1.Propagation model)

Threshold dialog (see Section 8.4.Coverage Threshold)

The following information is provided:

Coordinates display modes

Depending on cartographic settings, the coordinates may be displayed either as Easting / Northing
in meters or as degrees.

If degrees are used, X and Y coordinates may be presented in two ways:

✓ Classic degrees, minutes and seconds

dd mm’ ss’’ , e.g. 4 degrees, 24 minutes, 33.7 seconds East ; 45 degrees, 27
minutes, 19.7 seconds North

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✓ As a number with 5 decimal places, where integer part means degrees and digits after decimal point
mean minutes and seconds dd.mmsss , e.g. 4 degrees, 24 minutes, 33.7 seconds East;
45 degrees, 27 minutes, 19.7 seconds North.

Note: Decimal places for minutes change in range 00-59, while decimal places for seconds change in range 000 – 599
(00.0 to 59.9 seconds)

The way how degree coordinates are displayed can be adjusted in ‘File → Preferences → Unit’.
Check ‘DMS string mode’ to display coordinates in classic form.

Simulation results

Depending on the result being displayed on map, these may be (not all listed):

- Field strength value in dBµV/m, power level in dBm, and number of channels cx.
- Station number.
- Number of stations.
- Power in Watts or dBW.
- Distance/Height in m, m/10 (meters divided by 10).
- TOA in µsec.
- Percentage.
- Angle.
- Throughput in kbps/Mbps.
- Ratios in dB.

3.3.5. PALETTE AREA

Figure 25 - Palette Area

Palette area is the legend for the result map being displayed. The number of colors displayed and units
depends on:
- The type of information visualized in the Display Area (image, DTM, clutter, result). The appropriate palette is
shown automatically depending on what is currently displayed.

- User palette settings, available from menu command ‘Tools → User palette’.

Typically, the palette consists of 11 colors (coverage maps) or 12 colors (Server maps). For field strength
analysis, it is possible to “smooth” the map by using 256 colors palette checking the ‘256 color palette
(dBu)’ option in ‘Tools → User palette’ user palette settings.

The user may use default colors for the palette or set its own colors and save them to a palette file (.P11)
for further reuse.

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The unit value corresponds to the type of map displayed; the values may be expressed in:

- meters
- degree
- bits/s
- dB
- station number
- number of stations
- Watts
- µsec
- percentage

- dBµV/m and in dBm: the value in dBm is preceded by ‘+’ or ‘-‘ sign to indicate positive or negative value.

Values indicated are threshold values for each color.

3.3.6. STATUS BAR

Figure 26 – Status Bar

The status bar displays contextual hints (on the left side) for the current command or operation being
performed. It also shows progress of the simulation with time elapsed, increasing the time after each
iteration. Besides, the bar presents information regarding current cut-off threshold for coverage and
provides additional data in the right corner such as the number of processors/cores/threads, polygon
vertices drawn/left, simulations left/total.

3.3.7. STATIONS TREE VIEW

Station tree view provides the tree structure of the network in the project.

Activated objects are represented by a colored rectangle while the black ones (empty rectangles)
symbolizes de-activated objects. It is possible grouping sites according to coordinates, site code,
network ID, status and link hierarchy, doing right click on ‘Tx/Rx’ tree title to select the desired grouping
method. With an item (object) highlighted, doing a right click on it brings a context menu with functions
associated, such as parameters, coverage calculation, the possibility of linking to other objects, isolating
or showing on the map.

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 Figure 27 – Stations Tree View

3.3.8. CONTROL BUTTONS

Figure 28 - Menu Coverage and analysis

The set of buttons in upper right area, allows access to different tools and context menus during
network planning.

Last Commands Shortcuts Search

•Activates in •Shows context •Opens the

display area menu to Search dialog
the list of last activate, sort, to find stations
actions add and delete by Callsign,
performed. stations (not Adress,
Useful to all options are Frequency, etc.
repetitive task. listed).

Figure 29 – Coverage, Analysis, and Control Buttons

3.4. GRAPHICAL MENU BAR

Databases / Thresholds Quick Microwave Path Rectangle Coverage Overlay ON /

Map Layer
Lists / SQL and Limits Network Analysis Mode Mode Tools calculation OFF

Project Latest Height TX/RX Link Polygons Lines and Path Zoom Reset /
selector Coverage Mode Mode Mode Tools vectors Tools Profile options Stop

Figure 30 – Graphical Menu Bar

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3.4.1. DATABASES BUTTON / LISTS / SQL

Figure 31 - Databases / list / SQL

Database button facilitates access to:

- Station list.
- Microwave links list.
- Link list.
- Waypoint list.
- Internal and external databases.
- Bearings list.
- Localization lists.
- Vector polygon list.

3.4.2. LATEST COVERAGE BUTTON

Latest coverage button allows access to the different results computed during the work session such as
(not all listed):

- Interference.
- Visibility from a site.
- Transmitter coverage.
- Receiver coverage.
- Minimum Tx height calculation.
- Ec/Io.
- Best server margin.
- Delay spread.
Figure 32 – Latest coverage list

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3.4.3. THRESHOLD AND LIMITS SETTINGS BUTTON
Threshold and limits settings button allows defining constraints for calculations and analysis.

- Field strength or power threshold (cut-off level).

- Access to default profiles.
- Calculation distance.
- Angular sector limit.
- Grid step factor (for quicker calculations).

Figure 33 – Threshold and Limits Button

3.4.4. HEIGHT MODE SETTINGS BUTTON
Height mode button allows the user to set height reference for the simulations.

Figure 34 – Height Mode Button

AGL – Transmitter and Receiver antenna heights are referenced Above Ground Level.

TxASL – Height reference for Transmitter antenna is Sea level (Transmitter over Sea) and Height
reference for Receiver antenna is Above Ground Level.

RxASL – Height reference for Transmitter antenna is Above Ground Level and Height reference for
Receiver antenna is Above Sea Level (Receiver over Sea).

TxRxASL – Transmitter and Receiver antenna heights are referenced Above Sea Level.

3.4.5. QUICK NETWORK ANALYSIS

Button Quick network analysis button provides easy access to quick analysis of specific point on map

Figure 35 – Quick Network Analysis

- MFN / SFN interference

- COFDM tracking
- 4G/5G analysis

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- 3G analysis
- Scanner - C/I mode

Tip: Use right-click on a map location to analyze it.

The MFN analysis

calculates, at a particular
point, the interference
produced in a
multifrequency network
from best server given
minimum threshold
conditions for coverage.

To see results, right-click

on desired point in map.

Quick Analysis: MFN Interference

SFN analysis allows

intersymbol
interference
calculation, symbol
time of arrival and
received field strength
in single frequency
networks.
After setting
parameters, right-click
on desired point in map
to open analysis dialog.

Quick Analysis: SFN Interference

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 4G/5G analysis calculates
received field strength as
well as reference signal
received power, quality,
and interference-to-
noise levels from best
servers in a given point.
After setting parameters,
right-click on desired
point in map to open
context menu.

Quick Analysis: 4G/5G Analysis

3G analysis calculates for

a given point, received
signal code power as well
as bit energy levels with
respect to noise, symbol
time of arrival from 3g
best server, and co-
channel interference
between these if it exists.

Quick Analysis: 3G Analysis

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 Scanner analysis displays
information regarding
interference and
protection margin required
to prevent co-channel
interference from a user-
defined frequency range.
After setting frequency
range in dialog, right-click
on desired point in map to
open a context list.

Quick Analysis: Scanner

3.4.6. BUTTONS MODE

Buttons mode allow the user to select the desired mode of operation.

- Tx/Rx mode (1st top button) allows “installing” on the map such network objects like transmitters,
direction finders, radars.
- Microwave mode (2nd button) is the mode for creating microwave links between points or network
objects.

- Link mode (3rd button) allows creating visual links between network objects. Use ‘Database Button
→ Link List’ to access link table and set parameters for the links.

- Path mode (4th button) offers the possibility to create a mobile path (vector-alike) and analyze it as
well as run specific simulations in dynamic mode for the waypoints within.

Figure 36 –Buttons Mode

3.4.7. DRAWING TOOLS BUTTONS

This group of 3 drawing buttons allows:

- drawing, loading and importing polygons (masks)

- drawing or loading rectangles

- drawing lines: vectors or paths, clutter line or DEM/indoor line.

Figure 37 – Drawing Tools Button

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Figure 38 – Drawing Mask Tool Figure 39 – Drawing Rectangle Tool

Figure 40 – Drawing Line / Vector Tool

Draw mask and rectangle tools are associated with many useful functions, which are available from
the context menu that shows up once the mask or rectangle is drawn/loaded/imported and the user
selects ‘Continue’. Clicking ‘Continue’ before an object is drawn/loaded/imported has no effect.

3.4.8. COVERAGE CALCULATION AND ANALYSIS BUTTON

Contextual menu in Coverage Button Allows starting coverage
simulations and other network analyses such as:

- Tx/Rx coverage.
- Tx/Rx uplink coverage.
- 3D coverage.
- Composite coverage.
- Best server and best activated server coverage.
- Site overlapping
- Simultaneous server and channels map.
- Differences between sites.
- Interlaced servers.
- Radar coverage map.

Figure 41 – Coverage calculation and analysis menu

3.4.9. PATH PROFILE

This tool button allows to display profile

between 2 points on the terrain or between
network elements (if they exist on the map). To
show results in 2 points other than network
elements, the user is requested for equivalent
site transmission parameters (frequency,
power, antenna heights) and receiving site
antenna height. More details on preferences
can be found in CHAPTER 7.PATH PROFILES. Figure 42 – Path Profile parameters window.

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3.4.10. PROJECT SELECTOR BUTTON

The project selector Button closes the current project and open the Startup project.

Figure 43 – Project selector

Button

3.4.11. ZOOM OPTIONS BUTTON

Zoom button allows adjusting the zoom for the map. Various incrementing/decrementing options are
available:

Figure 44 – Zoom Button

After selecting an option, do click in the required zoom map point.

'+' Button '-' Button x2 Button :2 Button

•Increases the •Decrases the •Increases twice •Decreases the

drawing zoom in map zoom in the map view. current view by
one unit step, one step. half.
depending on
cartography
resolution.

'1:1' Button 'FIT' Button [] Button Zoom factor

•Adjust zoom to •Allows seeing •Allows drawing •Displays current

pixel size (grid entire map in the a rectangle on zoom factor.
step), depending Display Area. map and zoom
on cartography in to the extent.
resolution.

Color
button
•Allows user to Tip: to draw a rectangle on map and zoom in to the extent, keep
change cursor
color in display
Shift button pressed and -click on the first corner, then
area. enclose the area of interest and finally click again.

3.4.12. OVERLAY ON/OFF

This tool button allows to toggle between results layer on map, giving same results than <F11> key.

3.4.13. DISPLAY REFRESH AND RESET BUTTONS

Reset display / Stop button, allows refreshing, also removes the coverage result from the map.
Figure 45 – Stop and Reset Button

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3.4.14. MAP LAYER DIALOG
Map layer button Shows the Layer Display
Mode Window to select layers in work area. See
section 3.3.2. Layer Display Mode.

Figure 46 – Map layer window

4. Manipulating the Cartography

In HTZ communications, the cartography files used for the project are the following:
1. Digital Elevation Model (.GEO, .RGE, .IC2, .MGE) – it
contains the altitude model of the ground surface: 2. Clutter (.SOL) – with the ground occupancy:

3. Buildings (.BLG) – the layer with building footprints

and heights: 4. Image (.IMG) – the cartographic background image:

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At least one valid Digital Elevation Model layer file is mandatory for working with a project but other
layers are optional. All layers are loaded into memory excepting .IMG file which is read directly from
hard disk.

As background image layer, the following items can be used:

- Single map with associated color palette file – format .IMG + .PAL.
- Single map, including information about color palette – compressed format .RIM.
- Multi-map, containing links to various compressed .RIM images – format .MIM.
- Multi-map, containing links to the main online maps services (Bing, Google, Here maps, etc.) – format .BIM.

Especially .MIM and .BIM formats presents an attractive approach for background maps, as it can link
layers of different resolution and cartographic grid system. If .MIM file is used as image layer, HTZ
communications automatically selects the appropriate component image according to the current
zoom level. For example, the .MIM file can contain links to .RIM files, which can be made of: overall
country (region) map, city plans and satellite images of high resolution. The tool can automatically
switch the proper file consistent with actual zoom level.

More about multi-map files and multi-map editor utility, which facilitates the creation of .MIM files can
be found in APPENDIX section 11.1 - MULTI-MAPS and in technical document MULTIMAP EDITOR available in
http://data.atdi-group.com/doc/Multimap%20editor.pdf

4.1. GEOGRAPHIC PROJECTION (GRID CODE)

Each cartographic file, being a matrix or grid of cells, is created in certain projection or geographic
coordinate system. Files in HTZ communications format have the appropriate grid code hard coded.
Therefore, the tool knows the projection of each file.

The grid code employed in the project is determined by the grid code of .GEO file.

It is necessary for other cartographic files in uncompressed formats to be in the same projection, that
means, have the same grid code. Otherwise, it could generate an incompatibility status. This restriction
does not apply to compressed formats (RGE/MGE, RIM/MIM, RSO/MSO, RBL/MBL). To check projection
or grid code in HTZ communications nomenclature, the Map information may be viewed through Map
Properties key (press <F3>).

Please note that coordinates in the Display Area may be presented in a different projection than
originally coded – see Map properties Dialog information about Input / Output codes. The conversion
can be performed through the Coordinate Conversion Tool accessible from ‘Tools → Cartographic
conversions’.

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Figure 47 shows an example for Grid IN code EPSG3035 converted into Grid OUT code 4DMS (4 stands
for ellipsoid WGS84, DMS stands for Degrees Minutes Seconds), which is the default output grid. Other
output codes can be set either by specifying the desired grid code or by selecting the combination of
Coordinate System and Datum from the lists. Grid codes conversions that are often used may be
shortcut by pressing ‘Add Shortcut’ button. ‘Del Shortcut’ button deletes the highlighted shortcut and
‘Del list’ clears the entire list of shortcuts. ‘No conversion’ – if checked – ensures that original projection
is used.

Site coordinates Site

before coordinates
converting after
(from grid code) converting
Cartographic
conversions tool

Figure 47 –Cartographic conversions tool

More about available grid codes and datums can be found in 11.7 - GRID CODES AND DATUM list BŁĄD!
NIE MOŻNA ODNALEŹĆ ŹRÓDŁA ODWOŁANIA. of APPENDIX SECTION.

4.2. RESOLUTION
The file resolution, or pixel size (grid step), is the dimension of the single cell in cartography file. Same
resolution is recommended for .GEO / .SOL / .BLG files, except for the .IMG one, which can be better.
This restriction does not apply to compressed formats (RGE/MGE, RIM/MIM, RSO/MSO, RBL/MBL).
It is possible to work with Clutter and BLG layers with enhanced resolution than the DTM layer whenever
the ratio between both resolutions is an integer. All files are resampled to the resolution of the DTM
layer automatically.
If DTM resampling factor is used during project loading, all layers (except Image layer) are resampled
either.
The resolution of cartographic layers that need to be loaded into memory has a direct relation with
available RAM memory and processing speed. If free RAM is limited, the project could be resampled
automatically.
One should bear in mind that resampling could enable project fast loading but at the cost of accuracy
in display and calculations.

The ‘Project Manager’ dialog offers the option ‘Force memory swap.' If this option is checked, HTZ
communications maximizes RAM and disk memory in parallel. This option helps to avoid the
automatic resampling of the cartographic files.
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Finally, if an object is created on resampled cartography, its position is visually shifted to the nearest
pixel, while the actual position from input coordinates may be slightly different.

4.3. LAYERS SUPERPOSITION

The geographical extent of each cartographic layer may be different:

2
3
1
Case 1 Case 2 Case 3 Case 4

Figure 48 – Superposed cases for cartographic layers

Case 1: The Image and DTM are covering the same area. The display extent is identical for both and at
all points in this area may be reached.

Case 2: The Image covers only a part within DTM. DTM may be displayed in its totality by selecting ‘Map
→ 2D display → DTM layer’. All points having coordinates in common may be reached. The points
contained in the DTM file outside the Image are also considered, but the objects deployed at these
points can only be viewed if the entire DTM is displayed.

Case 3: The DTM covers only a region within Image. By default, Display Area shows the part of Image
common with DTM. Points common to both files may be reached. However, points located in the Image
outside the DTM file are ignored.

Case 4: The network file (.EWF) is loaded on the DTM. For instance, within a network consisting of 4
objects, which have been previously simulated and each object has an associated coverage, one of the
4 items (object #4 in Figure ) is located outside the DTM. However, a portion of its coverage is
overlapping the DTM. In this case, the object may be either completely ignored or included in Display
Area as well in calculations such as interference, composite coverage with other objects inside the DTM.
To include such an object, which is outside DTM, the option ‘Ghost Tx Accepted Tx outside map’ in ‘File
→ Preferences’ should be selected.

More about user preferences can be found in section 11.3 - USER PREFERENCES.

4.4. HANDLING LAYERS IN PROJECTS

− HTZ communications allows handling different layers during project creation. To review project
creation procedure, please refer to Section 0-

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PROJECT concept.

4.4.1. USING MAPS IN DISPLAY AREA

The display area offers different views in function of selected layer. See Section 3.3.2-LAYER DISPLAY
MODE. To navigate the current map in Display Area, Drag and Drop the map, that means do click and
move the pointer in opposite direction of what you want to present while keeping the mouse button
pressed. For instance, if you want to shift the map to North, hold down left click and move mouse to
South.

To zoom in and out using a mouse, rotate the wheel. Rolling wheel forward increases the zoom level,
and moving backward diminishes it. If it is not possible to use the mouse wheel, use the shift key and
draw a rectangle as is defined in Section 0-

ZOOM OPTIONS Button. Additionally, double click on map makes a zoom in the selected point.

Note: if you are using an online map layer version, it may take some seconds to update the display
area.

Drag
to
south

Figure 49 – Manipulating the map: dragging to south example

-It is possible to get a preview in selected location doing Right-click to get the context menu and
choosing ‘Street View <F7>’ or pressing <F7> key.

Figure 50 – Street view

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4.4.2. CHANGE AREA / RESOLUTION
It is possible to redraw and resample only a specific region within map using the rectangle tool. This
feature also resamples loaded layers. To perform this action:

Draw a rectangle in the selected area. See Section 3.4.7-DRAWING TOOLS BUTTONS.

Choose ‘Change area / Resolution’ from context menu.

Select new Sampling Factor from context menu.

A new project with area selected is displayed using the selected resolution

To preserve resampled area, it is necessary to save the project with a new name in menu in ‘File → Save
Project as... ‘

Figure 51 – Save project window

Note: Original layers and their links in loaded project are not modified performing an area/resolution
change. For more details, please refer to CUT MAP AND CHANGE AREA document, available in:
http://data.atdi-group.com/doc/Cut%20map%20and%20Change%20area.pdf

4.4.3. INSERTING EXTERNAL MAPS

When it is required inserting other cartographic files with different resolution than the current loaded
project for a specific region, it is possible to draw a rectangle and use Insert external map tool.

The files to be inserted must be in compressed formats (RGE, RSO, RBL) and located in a specific folder
per file type (or all inside a single folder).

Draw a rectangle in desired area. See Section 3.4.7-DRAWING TOOLS BUTTONS.

Choose ’Insert external maps’ from context menu.

A Define Area dialog pops up. Select the adequate parameters regarding coordinate code, step
(resolution), sampling factor, and the link to external map location.

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 Figure 52 – Inserting external maps

4.4.4. MANAGING MAPS

HTZ communications offers different ways to edit the extents of maps and layers loaded in a project.
For instance, it is possible to cut a map region and create a new .GEO, .SOL, and .BLG file containing
only desired areas.

Cutting maps

To perform a map cut, draw a rectangle in desired area. See Section 3.4.7-DRAWING TOOLS BUTTONS.

Choose ‘Manage uncompressed maps → Cut map (GEO/SOL/BLG)’ from context menu.

A new dialog indicates resampling factor and required disk

space in new layers.

After clicking ‘Yes’, it is necessary to create a new project

which contains new layers, and the new name as well
location for each individually. During the map cut, a .GEO, .BLG, and .SOL files are created.

Note: before cutting a compressed project, it is necessary to convert it and uncompressing each layer
using the conversion tool.

Other maps converting tools

HTZ communications presents options to perform map conversion and compression. For more
information, please refer to MANAGING MAPS document, available in: HTTP://WWW.ATDI-
MAPS.COM/DOC/MANAGING%20MAPS.PDF.

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5. Network Elements
HTZ communications supports various types of network elements or objects, which can be located on
the map to build a network.

A single project can display on map up to 20 000 fixed network elements, including microwave end
stations. A microwave link is an object containing 2 stations; therefore a maximum of 10 000 microwave
links can be added on the map.

Also, one Mobile Path element which represents the path trajectory composed of segments separated
by nodes called Way Points, may also be settled on the map. A Path object can have up to 49 waypoints.

Network elements can be divided with regards to functionality and type of “ownership,” as it shown
below.

5.1. FUNCTIONAL TYPES

From functional designation viewpoint, the element may be a:

Network element Default Symbol on Map

Transmitter / Receiver (Tx/Rx)

Direction Finder (DF)

Radar

Satellite earth station

(may be Tx/Rx or Rx)

Subscriber

User

(treated as Tx/Rx element)

Mobile (AGL)

Mobile (ASL)

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 Wind turbine

Microwave

Space object (satellite)

Objects having 2 ends are:

Microwave link (consists of two network elements of Microwave type and a connection between
them, uni- or bi-directional)

Link (uni- or bi-directional)

Network element Default Symbol on Map

Microwave Link

(uni-directional from 1 to 2)

Microwave Link

(bi-directional)

Microwave Link

(free space path, margin ≥ 2 dB, no TD)

Microwave Link

(diffracted path, margin ≥ 2 dB, no TD)

Microwave Link

(free space path, margin < 2 dB)

Microwave Link

(diffracted path, margin < 2 dB)

Microwave Link

(free space path, margin ≥ 2 dB, TD > 0 dB)

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Microwave Link

(diffracted path, margin ≥ 2 dB, TD > 0 dB)

Deactivated Microwave Link

Link

(uni-directional from 1 to 2, end stations of Tx/Rx type as

example)

Link

(bi-directional, end stations of Tx/Rx type as example)

Moreover, a Path object which could reflect the trajectory of a moving object, can be defined on top.

Figure 53 – Mobile trajectory example

5.2. ICONOGRAPHY OF ELEMENT’S SYMBOL

Network elements may be represented on terrain by:
− Default symbols: e.g.
− Cross:
− Custom 16-colour icon of 16x16 or 32x32 size: e.g.

The way in which element symbol is displayed on the map can be selected globally through ‘Object
Properties’ dialog (<F5>) or individually through element parameters window (site tab).

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5.3. SUBSCRIBERS
HTZ communications provides a powerful tool to analyze radio frequency objects and networks from
the perspective of users – subscribers.

The concept of subscribers is useful to perform:

− Quick network design over given terrain.
− Quick network planning along vector lines or within a polygon.
− Network growth planning.
− Network optimization, e.g. tuning the parameters of transmitters.
− Analyzing networks from the uplink perspective.
− Frequency assignment to stations and subscribers.
− Analysis with existing fixed subscribers/users locations.

To start working with subscribers, it is necessary to create an internal database that can store subscriber
records. Select Database/list/SQL button from the graphical menu bar, then ‘DB subscriber’. From
main menu select – ‘Database → Subscriber database → Subscriber database configuration’.

‘New link…’ button allows creating a new database file while

‘Load…’ button allows linking an existing database file. Right
click on selected record shows additional options, which
allows managing of the highlighted item:

Figure 55 – Right click in Subscribers Database Window

Double click on the selected database to select and work with its content.

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 Figure 56 -Subscribers database

Once the database is created or loaded, the subscribers can be generated (‘Subscriber → Generate
subscribers’) – and placed in the records. Subscribers can also be imported from external ASCII file
(‘File → Import → Import generic stations / subscribers’, button ‘Import to subscriber database’).

Having subscribers in the database allows using the functions grouped in menu ‘Subscriber → ‘. Before
the first analysis, it is necessary to set up a subscriber objects on the map. To set up a subscriber, select
it from the corresponding record in the database. For example, ‘Select all’ button may be clicked to
have all subscribers displayed on the map. Additionally, the option ‘Display subscribers’ in ‘Object →
Object properties (F5)’ needs to be checked; otherwise, subscribers are not displayed on the map.

Binding a subscriber with a station that serves it is called "Parenting". Thus, a subscriber can be either
connected (parented) or not connected (orphan). Parenting of subscribers is used by many subscriber-
related functions to analyze or plan a network. Parented subscribers can be made orphans by clicking
‘Change tech’ button from subscriber database and specifying value “1” for the field ‘declare orphan’.

5.4. OBJECT PROPERTIES

The way how objects are displayed on the map can be adjusted by settings found in window ‘Object →
Object properties (F5)’. It is recommended to customize these settings depending on current needs.

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 Figure 57 – Object properties

5.4.1. SITE COLOR

Defines the color of the object on the map, selecting between default or specified by the user. The user
can modify the color through the Site tab in their Parameters dialog.

5.4.2. LABELS
These options allow displaying a label next to each object providing selected information.

5.4.3. TX/RX DIRECTIVITY

Options allow displaying the pictogram for antenna pattern and azimuth arrow.

5.4.4. ICON
Options for choosing the types of object icon displayed on the map.

5.4.5. ZONE AROUND TX/RX

Options for choosing what type of zone can be displayed around objects on the map.

5.4.6. VECTOR FILES

Options influencing the outlines of vector and population files on the map.

5.4.7. SUBSCRIBERS
Options influencing the visibility of subscribers on the map and controlling what type of information
associated with subscribers can be displayed as labels.

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5.4.8. DATABASES
These options allow displaying on the map the locations of objects stored in station and microwave
databases. If ‘Callsign’ is checked, the location pixel gets a label additionally with station call sign.

5.4.9. INTERFERENCE/OVERLAPPING
The color selected in this dialog is used to visualize interference or overlapping of coverage on the map.
By default, pink color is used. It is recommended to keep this setting at the default value. Also, it is
possible to enable inter-station visibility distance.

5.4.10. LABEL DISPLAY

These options allow to modify the background color and size in labels containing the network element
info on map.

5.4.11. INTERFERENCE OFF

When this option is checked, during Interference Analysis calculation the stations with selected status
are not considered.

5.4.12. REFERENCE COUNTRY

Select from the drop list the reference country to be considered by default in the cross-border
coordination features.

6. Building Networks from Elements

Network elements in Section 0 -

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NETWORK Elements are used to build networks. The built network can be saved in network file (.EWFx /
.EWX).

At any time, a network file can be:

− Loaded into the project: ‘File → Load → Load network file (.EWFx/.EWX)’. The network file loaded
replaces all objects present on the map

− Added into the project: ‘File → Load → Add network file (.EWFx / .EWX)’.

Additionally, all network files from given folder can be loaded at one go: ‘File → Load → Load all
network files (.EWFx) from folder’.

Network file will store not only the objects of the network but also associated individual coverage data.
Therefore, the file contains the complete picture of the network under design.

6.1. NETWORK CREATION MODES

There are few modes available for creating networks. They can be activated from the graphical menu
bar.
Tx/Rx

Microwave

Link

Path
• Place fixed • Establish • Set links • Allow
network microwave between drawing
elements links. Tx/Rx path
elements trajectory
(other than for a
microwave mobile
links). object.

6.2. TX/RX MODE

The Tx/Rx mode is intended to place on the map any fixed station, in multiple RF technologies. It is the
basic mode of using HTZ communications.

6.2.1. TX/RX ELEMENTS SETUP MODES

There are two network elements setup modes available:

− Standard
Objects are placed on the map according to given coordinates and with technical/administrative parameters
specified by the user for each object via the ‘Tx/Rx parameters’ window.

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 Figure 58 - Tx/Rx Parameters Configuration

‘Tx/Rx parameters’ window allows setting all technical and general parameters of a network element. It
includes among other options:
- Callsign and other common parameters as well as transmitter technical characteristic - tab
‘General’.
- Antenna patterns, azimuths, and tilts – tab ‘Patterns’.

- Specification on frequencies and channels – tab ‘Channels’.

- Geographical position – tab ‘Site’.

- Advanced technical parameters – tab ‘Advanced’.

Note: ‘Tx/Rx parameters’ window may be adjusted (i.e. additional tabs added) depending on the type of network
element being characterized. For example, in case of radar object, an additional ‘Radar’ tab is shown.

− Semi-automatic
Objects are shown on the map according to given coordinates and technical parameters which are taken
from a pre-defined Tx/Rx equipment database. Specify the desired height and frequency for the object to
be installed and make a double click on the chosen equipment record on the database list. The selected
equipment is positioned on the map. Before using it, go to ‘File → Preferences’ dialog by checking the option
‘Add Tx/Rx from list’ to activate Semi-automatic mode.

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 Figure 59 –Adding Tx/Rx stations from a list

It is recommended to build up the database of equipment parameters before use this mode. The database
is available from the main menu at ‘Database → Library → Tx/Rx parameter database → List’.

6.2.2. INSTALLING NETWORK ELEMENTS WITH MOUSE

Locate the mouse cursor at desired location.
Right click to get context menu.

Choose ‘Add station → [Tx/Rx, DF, Radar, ...]’, depending on type of desired station.

Depending on the preference ‘Add Tx/Rx from list’:

(if checked) choose the wanted equipment from equipment database and make a double click.

(if unchecked) specify technical/administrative parameters of the new element in the ‘Tx/Rx parameters’
window followed by clicking ‘OK’ button.

The new network element is installed and its symbol displayed on the map.

6.2.3. SPECIFY/MODIFY PARAMETERS OF NETWORK ELEMENT

It is possible to specify appropriate values in the ‘Tx/Rx parameters’ window automatically shown just
after a network element has been added in the standard setup mode.

Locate the mouse cursor over the desired network element; the cursor should become a hand, which indicates
its pointing to the network element.
Make left or right click and select the station to modify; the context menu appears.

Choose ‘Parameters’ from context menu; ‘Tx/Rx parameters’ window is shown.

Specify/modify appropriate parameters on given tab(s).

Click ‘OK’ to confirm new parameters and close the window.

The parameters of network element(s) can also be changed globally (for all activated stations) by
selecting appropriate ‘Change’ function from ‘Object’ menu.

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6.2.4. SPECIFYING NETWORK ELEMENT ANTENNA PARAMETERS
In antenna parameters for each network element, some characteristics like radiation pattern, gain, tilt,
polarization and so on can be modified.

Open the ‘TX/RX Parameters’ dialog for desired network element.

Choose ‘Patterns’ from tabs.

Specify/modify appropriate parameters on given tab(s).

Click ‘OK’ to confirm new parameters and close the window.

Figure 60 –Antenna parameters dialog

It is possible employing standard antennas references or preloaded commercial patterns. Some 2D

antenna models represent preloaded horizontal and vertical radiation patterns, for instance, those that
are defined by ITU. However, it is possible to load a 3D antenna model file or convert it from a 2D
model when necessary.

User can choose between different antenna types, such as:

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 2D antenna

3D Patterns (1
polarization)

Parabolas (ITU, Wien fix)

Spectrum XXI

NSMA 2D files (2
polarizations + XPD
from RPE database)

3D Parabolas
Antennas selection list
Figure 61 – Antennas selection list

For 2D antenna patterns, user can import pattern data from an external file, select them from the
internal database, from predefined patterns or define them manually.

Importing antenna patterns from external files.

From “Pattern” tab., expand the list as Figure indicates and select ‘2D antenna H+V (1 polarization)’.

From ‘:…’ button, Select ‘Import’ with the

appropriate antenna
filetype and navigate to its
location. Compatible
filetypes are .PLT, .FCC;
.TXT, ADF, SPH and .MSI.
Figure shows an example
for ADF filetype.

Specify/modify correct
antenna parameters
on given tab(s).

Click ‘OK’ to confirm

new parameters and
close the window.

Figure 62 –ADF filetype and 2D radiation pattern

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 Selecting antenna patterns from internal database.

From “Pattern” tab, select ’Antenna database’ button.

Select desired element from

database with double click.

Selected element appears

on Patterns dialog tab.

Modifying antenna patterns from editor.

For cases when it is required bring the radiation pattern model via ASCII file or manual input, it exists the antenna
editor dialog.

From “Pattern” tab., expand the list as Figure indicates and select ‘2D antenna H+V (1 polarization)’.

From ‘:…’ button, select ‘Edit/select H- pattern.'

In the ‘Horizontal pattern editor’

dialog, write the corresponding
azimuth value (degrees) and attenuation (in dB) in text fields. Confirm
with <Enter> key. Additionally, user can look for related values within list next to polar pattern graph and
select them to modify.
Figure 63 –3D Antenna visualization

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 Specify the azimuth autoincrement value in degrees (optional).
Finally, the user also can select attenuation value directly from the polar graph, doing click in the corresponding
azimuth.

Click ‘OK’ to confirm new parameters and close the window.

Tip: to paste H pattern attenuation values from text strings like:
4.4|5.5|7.5|9.0|11.0|13.0|13.0|13.0|13.0|12.0|13.0|13.0|13.0… or
4.4;5.5;7.5;9.0;11.0;13.0;13.0;13.0;13.0;12.0;13.0;13.0;13.0…,
click on ’Paste’ button in lower corner. The supported separators are:
<;> <|> <CR> <TAB> and number of values can be either 36, 72 or 360.

Selecting predefined patterns from editor.

From “Pattern” tab., expand the list as Figure indicates and select ‘2D antenna H+V (1 polarization)’.

From ‘:…’ button, pick

‘Edit/Select H-pattern’ or
‘Edit/Select V-pattern’ to
modify Horizontal or Vertical
values correspondingly.

Click in ‘Omni,' ‘419/GE84’, ‘699’ or ‘Select’ from ‘Horizontal pattern editor.'

Click ‘OK’ to confirm radiation pattern and close the window.

For 3D antenna patterns, user can select or

import pattern data from an external file, as well
as converting a 2D into a 3D model.

Importing 3D antenna patterns from external files.

From “Pattern” tab., expand the list as Figure 61 – Antennas selection list indicates and select ‘3D antenna (1
polarization + XPD)’.

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 From ‘:…’ button, click on ‘Select’ or ‘Import’
according to appropriate filetype.
and navigate to its location.
Compatible file types are .3D PLT
or 3D PAT.
Figure shows an example for 3D
PAT filetype. Click on ‘View’ from
‘…’ button to open a new 3D dialog with selected antenna.
Specify/modify correct antenna parameters on given tab(s).

Click ‘OK’ to confirm new parameters

and close the window.

HTZ communications implements some reference radiation patterns defined by ITU in fixed, mobile
and satellite antennas services for different services. The user can select them directly from list in
‘Patterns’ tab.

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 ITU 1213Parabol ITU 1336 ITU1428

ITU 1851 ITU 509

ITU 1245

ITU 699 Wien Fix

Some antenna vendors provide patterns in NSMA (National Spectrum Managers Association) format
through RPE text,ADW or .DAT files.

Selecting NSMA antenna patterns from antenna selector.

From “Pattern” tab., expand the list as Figure indicates and select ‘NSMA
Antenna H+V (2 polarizations + XPD)’.
From ‘:…’ button, click on ‘Edit/Select.' The Antenna Selection Dialog
pops up.
Look for vendor and reference in list and select antenna.

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 Click ‘OK’ to confirm new
parameters and close the
window.

Importing NSMA antenna paterns from external files.

To load an RPE NSMA antenna pattern from an external file, expand the list as Figure indicates and select
‘NSMA Antenna H+V (2 polarizations + XPD)’.
From ‘:…’ button, click on ‘Edit/Select.' The Antenna Selection Dialog pops up.

Click on ‘Edit’ button to open ADW Antenna File

Editor.

Select menu ‘File->Open’ and navigate to folder

containing ADW file to load the RPE pattern.

It is possible to modify the pattern points clicking

on Notepad button or for each polarization in
their corresponding Edit button then changing
azimuth and gain in left text box.

Click ‘OK’ to confirm new values and close the RPE Pattern diagram editor.

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 Note: To add the new RPE antenna file to antenna selection list, select Save as from File menu. Then, navigate to
RPE folder in Library path, defined in Folder Locations. Finally, Save the ADW antenna file in their
corresponding vendor Folder. Finally, return to Antenna selection window and click on Rebuild Index File with
adequate Manufacturer selected.

For 3D parabolic patterns, user can import data from an external file, select them from the internal
database, from predefined patterns or define them manually.

Importing 3D parabolic patterns from external files.

From “Pattern” tab., expand the list as Figure indicates and select ‘Parabol (2 polarizations + XPD)’.

From ‘:…’ button, click on ‘ Edit/Select’. The Antenna

Selection Dialog pops up.
Look for vendor and reference in list and select antenna.

Click ‘OK’ to confirm new parameters and close the window.

Importing RPE parabolic patterns from external files.

To load an RPE NSMA antenna pattern from an external file, from “Pattern” tab., expand the list as Figure
indicates and select ‘Parabol (2 polarizations + XPD)’.

From ‘:…’ button, click on ‘Edit/Select’. The

Antenna Selection Dialog pops up.

Click on ‘Edit’ button to open ADW Antenna File

Editor.

Select ‘File->Open’ menu and navigate to folder

containing ADW file to load the RPE pattern.

It is possible to modify the pattern points clicking on Notepad button or for each polarization in their
corresponding ‘Edit’ button then changing azimuth and gain in left text box.

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 Click ‘OK’ to confirm new values and close the RPE Pattern diagram editor.
Note: to add the new RPE antenna file to antenna selection list, select Save as from File menu. Then, navigate to
RPE folder in Library path, defined in Folder Locations. Finally, Save the ADW antenna file in their
corresponding vendor Folder. Finally, return to Antenna selection window and click on Rebuild Index File with
adequate Manufacturer selected.

6.2.5. INSTALL NETWORK ELEMENT AT GIVEN COORDINATES

(optional) Locate the mouse cursor at approximate site location.
Right click to get context menu.

Choose ‘Add Station → From coordinates’ or press <p> key (small caps); the ‘Site coordinates’ dialog
shows up.
Specify site coordinates according to currently chosen geographic projection; if working with 4DMS projection,
the ‘Alphanumeric grid’ converter may be used to provide coordinates in degrees/minutes/seconds string
format.

Click ‘Preview’ button to visualize the map around the coordinates and to verify entered coordinates. ‘Found
altitude’ text displays the altitude found both in memory (resampling may be in force) and in the elevation file.
A ‘Position error’ dialog emerges if specified coordinates are incorrect.

1. Click ‘Update’ to close the ‘site coordinates’ dialog.

Note: closing the ‘site coordinates’ dialog with ‘x’ icon in the top right corner cancel
the operation.

The new network element is installed at given coordinates and its symbol displayed on the map.

6.2.6. MOVE A NETWORK ELEMENT

Locate the mouse cursor over the desired network element; the cursor should become a hand, which indicates
its pointing to the network element.
Make left or right click and select the station to be moved; the context menu appears.

Choose ‘Move’ from context menu. The symbol of the element changes black.
Locate the mouse cursor on new geographic position.

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 Click to locate the station at new geographical point.

Alternatively, press <p> key (small caps) to specify exact coordinates in the current projection.

The new network element is moved to new location.

Note: Station(s) may also be relocated by using rectangle tool or mask tool. These tools allow move group of
stations as well.

6.2.7. COPYING NETWORK ELEMENTS

By copying network elements, it is possible to create its exact copy in another or same location.

1. Use ‘ → Draw rectangle’ to draw a rectangle around station(s) to be copied. A context menu
appears.

2. Choose ‘Stations → Copy/paste activated stations’.

3. Locate the mouse cursor at the location to place a copy of the network element(s).
4. Click to create a copy; copied network elements are shown on the map.
5. To make additional copies of network element(s), repeat steps 3 and 4.

6. Press <Esc> key to stop copying. The network element(s) is (are) copied.

Note: If more than 1 station is selected by rectangle tool, the copy function place all copied stations at the same
location.

6.2.8. DUPLICATE A NETWORK ELEMENT

By duplicating a network element, it is possible to create its copies at the same position (site) to
constitute, for instance, sectored solution.

1. Locate the mouse cursor over the desired network element; the cursor should become a hand, which
indicates its pointing to the network element.
2. Make left or right click and select the station to be moved; the context menu appears.

3. Choose ‘Duplicate’ from context menu to show ‘Parameters’ dialog.

4. Specify parameters for the duplicated objects, i.e. number of copies, azimuth spacing, callsign rules,
coverage copying.

5. Click ‘OK’ to create duplicate objects. The duplicated objects are created at the same location (site).

Note: station may also be duplicated by using rectangle tool or mask tool. These tools allow, as well, duplicating
a set of stations.

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6.2.9. DE-ACTIVATE/ISOLATE/ACTIVATE A NETWORK ELEMENTS
Deactivating network element(s) it means that the element(s) is switched off.

Isolating a network element denotes that all other network elements are switched off but the selected
one.

Activating a network element(s), it signifies that it is switched on.

Note: Only active elements may be de-activated or isolated but only de-activated elements may be
activated.

1. Locate the mouse cursor over the desired network element. The cursor should become a hand, which
indicates its pointing to the network element.
2. Make left or right click and select the station to change. The context menu is shown.
3. Depending on the desired task:

(de-activating an active element) choose ‘De-activate’.

(isolating an active element) choose ‘Isolate’.

(activating a deactivated element) choose ‘Activate’.

The network element is de-activated / isolated from others / activated.

Note: Multiple network elements may be deactivated or isolated using rectangle or mask drawing tool.

Network elements may also be deactivated/activated /isolated from station list – open ‘Station list’ by

clicking button then, highlight desired stations and choose ‘Activate’, ‘Deactivate’ or ‘Isolate’.

‘Object’ menu provides additional ways for activating, deactivating or isolating network elements. For
instance, the stations may be isolated based on specific rules (‘Object → Isolate’).

6.2.10. DELETING NETWORK ELEMENTS

Deleting network elements means that they will be removed from the project.

1. Locate the mouse cursor over the desired network element. The cursor should become a hand, which
indicates its pointing to the network element.
2. Make left or right click and select the station to be deleted. The context menu pops up.

3. Choose ‘DELETE’. A ‘Confirmation’ dialog appears.

4. Click ‘Yes’ to delete the object. The Station is deleted from the map.

Note: Multiple network elements may be deleted using rectangle or mask drawing tool.

De-activated network elements may also be eliminated from station list – open ‘Station list’ by clicking
button, highlight desired stations and choose ‘Del deactivated’.

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 ‘Object → Delete’ menu provides additional means for deleting network elements. For example, stations
may be removed according to the type.

6.3. MICROWAVE MODE

The Microwave mode is intended to place on the map microwave links.

A microwave link on the map consists of 2 fixed stations A, B, and a line connecting them.

6.3.1. INSTALL A MICROWAVE LINK WITH MOUSE

1. Select the ‘Microwave Mode’ from graphical bar.

2. Locate the mouse cursor on the geographical location intended for station A.
3. Right click. A small pink rectangle indicates station A’s location.
4. Move the mouse cursor to the geographical location intended for station B.

5. Right click. ‘Microwave link parameters’ window shows up.

6. Define technical/administrative parameters.

7. Click ‘OK’ to install the link on the map.

The microwave link is installed on the map.

6.3.2. INSTALL A MICROWAVE LINK BY SPECIFYING COORDINATES OF TWO ENDS

1. Select the ‘Microwave Mode’ from graphical bar.

2. Press <p> key to show the ‘Microwave link parameters’ dialog.

3. Go to ‘Site’ tab.

4. Click the button with reference coordinates for site A. ‘Site coordinates’ dialog appears.
5. Set location coordinates for station A according to currently chosen geographic projection. If working with
4DMS projection, the ‘Alpha numeric grid’ converter may be used to provide coordinates in
degrees/minutes/seconds string format.

6. Click ‘Preview’ button to visualize in vignette the map around the coordinates and to verify position. Label
‘Found altitude’ displays the altitude found both in memory (might have been resampled) and in the
elevation file. A ‘Position error’ dialog shows up if specified coordinates are incorrect.

7. Click ‘Update’ to close the ‘site coordinates’ dialog.

Note: Closing the ‘site coordinates’ dialog with ‘x’ icon in the top right corner cancel the operation without
updating the site.

8. Repeat steps 4 through 7 for end station B.

9. Define technical/administrative parameters of the microwave link.

10. Click ‘OK’ to install the link on the map.

The microwave link with end stations A and B at given geographical coordinates is settled on the map.
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6.3.3. MOVE A MICROWAVE LINK
Moving a microwave link is meant that one or both stations are moved.

This can only be performed in Tx/Rx mode.

Apply steps described in Section 6.2.6 - MOVE A NETWORK ELEMENT to move microwave link’s end stations.

6.3.4. DELETE A MICROWAVE LINK

Microwave link(s) can be removed by:

− Deleting entire microwave link from the ‘Microwave list’ – Recommended method.

− Deleting its end stations in Tx/Rx mode – see section 6.2.10 - DELETING NETWORK ELEMENT for details. This
way only removes one link element and It is necessary to delete the other end manually.

To delete entire microwave link:

1. Choose ‘Database / List / SQL’→ ‘Microwave list’ from graphical bar. The list shows up.
2. Highlight desired microwave link.
3. Right click to show popup menu.

4. Choose ‘Delete’. A ‘Confirmation’ dialog appears.

5. Click ‘Yes’. The record associated with the microwave link is deleted.

The microwave link is deleted from the map.

6.3.5. PATH BUDGET OF MICROWAVE LINK

The path budget of microwave link can be analyzed by generating the path profile, the report, and
profile sheet.

To generate path budget profile:

1. Choose ‘Database / List / SQL’→ ‘Microwave list’ from graphical bar. The list shows up.
2. Highlight desired microwave link.
3. Right click to show context menu.
4. Select appropriate profile: from station A to station B or opposite (only obtainable in bi-directional links).

A new Path profile window with path budget calculation shows up.

Additionally, it is possible to generate path budget report and profile sheet from Path Budget profile
window:

1. Generate the path budget profile as described from steps 1 to 4 above.

2. Left-click on the upper part of the ‘Profile’ window (above profile chart) and select ‘Report’.

Path budget report for the link appears in a new dialog.

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Finally, it is possible to generate a complete profile sheet, including layers in DTM, for the microwave
link from Path Budget profile window:

1. Generate the path budget profile as described from steps 1 to 4 above.

2. Left-click on the upper part of the ‘Profile’ window (above profile chart) and select ‘Profile sheet’ from the
popup menu.

3. Provide information regarding ‘Tx name’ (side A), ‘Rx name’ (side B), and ‘Path name’ and click ‘OK’.

A new dialog with the Profile sheet for the link shows up.

6.4. LINK MODE

The Link mode is intended to create links between network elements other than microwave links.

6.4.1. CREATE A LINK BETWEEN NETWORK ELEMENTS

1. Select the ‘Link mode’ from graphical bar.

2. Locate the mouse cursor over desired network element corresponding at the 1st side of the link (station A).
The cursor should become a hand, which indicates its pointing to the network element.
3. Click over the chosen network element.
4. Locate the mouse cursor over desired network element related with the 2nd side of the link (station B); the
cursor should become a hand, which indicates its pointing to the network element.
5. Click over the chosen network element.
6. To a create bi-directional link, repeat steps 2 through 5 in the opposite direction, i.e. from station B to station
A.

A link from station A to station B is created and shown on the map.

6.4.2. SPECIFY/MODIFY LINK PARAMETERS

1. Select ‘Database / List / SQL’→ ‘Link list’ from graphical bar. The list shows up.
2. Right click on desired link and select ‘Link parameters’. A new ‘Parameters’ dialog appears.
3. Modify the link parameters with new values.

4. Click ‘OK’ to confirm new parameters.

Parameters of end stations can be modified by selecting ‘Station A parameters’ or ‘Station B parameters’
in step 2.

6.4.3. DISPLAY PROFILE OF A LINK

1. Select ‘Database / List / SQL’→ ‘Link list’ from graphical bar.

2. Doble click on desired link and select appropriate profile option.

The window containing selected profile is opened.

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 Note: Context menu offered after making a double click on link record provides some additional analysis for the
link such as Interference and frequency checking.

6.4.4. CHANGING THE LINK COLOR

1. Select ‘Database / List / SQL’→ ‘Link list’ from graphical bar. The list shows up.
2. Right click on desired link and select ‘Link parameters’. A new ‘Parameters’ dialog appears.
3. Modify the color with values form 0 to 15: 0 Automatic Color, 15, White..

4. Click ‘OK’ to confirm new color.

Parameters of end stations can be modified by selecting ‘Station A parameters’ or ‘Station B parameters’
in step 2.

6.4.5. DELETE A LINK

1. Open ‘Station link list’ window by choosing ‘ Database / List / SQL’→ ‘Link list’ from graphical bar.
2. Right click on desired link and choose ‘Delete’
or

Highlight the link to be removed and click ‘Del selected links’ button on the left.

The link is erased.

Note:
Multiple links can be removed by highlighting the desired records and using ‘Del selected links’ button.

6.5. PATH MODE

With Path mode, the user may reproduce a trajectory of a mobile object on the map. The path consists
of nodes – waypoints and interconnecting lines. A single path with up to 49 waypoints can be created
in HTZ communications.

6.5.1. CREATE PATH ON THE MAP

1. Select the ‘Path mode’ from graphical bar.

2. Locate the mouse cursor at desired location.
3. Right click on position. The waypoint 0 is created and shown on map.
4. Repeat right clicks along desired route. Each click set a waypoint numbered consecutively. Right click on a
waypoint to delete it.

The path trajectory is created and shown on the map.

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 Note: Waypoint 0 is for reference only and is not considered during calculations.

6.5.2. SPECIFY MOBILE PARAMETERS

All parameters of a mobile object related with the path trajectory can be set up from the ‘Mobile Report’
window.

Figure 64 - Mobile Report window

1. Select the ‘Path mode’ from graphical bar.

2. Locate the mouse cursor over waypoint 0 of the track. The cursor should become a hand, which indicates
its pointing to the network element.

3. Right click to open ‘Mobile Report’ window.

4. Select the type of mobile object, which can be a DF or Tx/Rx.

5. Click on ‘Parameters’ button to open parameters window associated with selected object.
6. Set up all desired parameters, in the same way as a fixed network element.

7. In the ‘Items’ subgroup of ‘Mobile report’ window, choose the component to display and change value
in each waypoint: height (ASL, AGL, relative to elevation at waypoint 0), power, field strength or tilt.
8. If it is necessary, provide values for the object such as height or power. Use Elevation Graph or Power Graph
button to adjust each waypoint manually. Use arrows keys (<  >, < → >) to navigate between waypoints
and <+>, <-> keys to change values in steps of 5. Confirm final value with <Enter> key.

9. Click ‘OK’ to confirm settings and close parameters window.

Note: Selected height reference has influence on how the antenna height entered in parameters window is
interpreted, e.g. if ‘ASL elevation’ is chosen and value of 2 m entered in parameters window, each
waypoint evaluates the antenna height of 2 m above sea level.

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 The value of currently displayed parameter (height, power, field strength, tilt) may be manually specified
or adjusted for each waypoint except in Waypoint 0;

10. Click ‘Close’ button to confirm path settings.

Path trajectory is set up with specified parameters.

6.5.3. SAVING PATH TO DISK FILE

The entire path may be saved to a file from within ‘Mobile Report’ window.

Click ‘Save (TRK)’ button and provide a name for the file containing path. The path file has .TRK
extension.

6.5.4. DELETE PATH

The entire path may be removed from the map in the following ways:

1. From within ‘Mobile Report’ window – click ‘Remove Path’ button

2. From main menu by selecting ‘Object → Delete → Path’. This method is also available from other network
creation modes.

6.6. MANAGING INSTALLED NETWORK ELEMENTS

HTZ communications allows different ways to manage network elements already present on the map.
Typically, this is performed through:

− Individual objects on the map– right/left click on the desired object to access context menu with relevant
functions.
− Individual objects via the site tree view on the right of HTZ communications main window – more on tree
view can be found in 3.3.7 - STATIONS TREE VIEW.

− Individual objects in ‘Station selection’ window pressing <TAB> key. Clicking on each object symbol it is
possible to activate/de-activate it. Right click opens its parameters window.

− Group of objects by using functionality related to draw mask / draw rectangle tools, and selecting ‘Stations’
submenu.
− Group of objects by using functions available for Station/Microwave/Link/Waypoint lists.

Figure 65 – Network elements management

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7. Path Profiles
Path Profile is a powerful tool employed in point-to-point analysis. It provides detailed information
about the propagation phenomena, visibility and terrain characteristics between transmitter (start point)
and receiver (end point).

Start/end points can be:

− Any point on the map.

− Any network element present on the map.

Path profile can be launched from:

− The tool from the graphical menu bar;

− Network element’s context menu: ‘Profile to’ other network element, ‘Profile from’ other network element.

Figure 66 – Path Profile

The path profile window comprises the following areas:

− Coordinates: a top bar similar to Map Layer Information Bar in main screen (see Section 0 - HTTP://DATA.atdi-
group.com/doc/Menu%20configuration.pdf
− ) and 3 location vignettes (left: Tx location, right: Rx location, middle: location under cursor).
− Profile chart: displays terrain profile, clutter, Fresnel ellipsoid, free space and signal curves (it is also possible
to compare propagation calculated by two different models).
− Legend and information: provides detailed information about Tx, Rx, propagation attenuations, thresholds,
PSO (probability of successful operation, a margin corresponding to 𝐹𝑆𝑟𝑒𝑐𝑒𝑖𝑣𝑒 − 𝑅𝑥𝑡ℎ𝑟𝑒𝑠ℎ𝑜𝑙𝑑 displayed in
green when positive and in red when negative), etc.

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The options and functions are associated with the path profile drawn on the screen. Left-click anywhere
on the profile window, except profile chart area, to get the popup menu:

Figure 67 – Path Profile Context menu

Once the desired parameter is adjusted (e.g. propagation model), the profile is redrawn automatically.

More detailed information about Path Profile can be found in technical document PASSIVE PATH PROFILE
WINDOW document from http://data.atdi-group.com/doc/Passive%20Path%20Profile%20window.pdf.

7.1. PATH PROFILE BETWEEN TWO POINTS ON THE MAP

To display the profile between two points on the map:

1. Launch the tool by cliking on .

2. Click on desired start point to locate the transmitter. The ‘Parameters’ dialog for transmitter shows up.
3. Provide technical parameters for the transmitter:
‘Frequency (MHz)’, ‘E.I.R.P (Watts)’, ‘Tx antenna
(m)’, and ‘Rx antenna (m)’ then click ‘OK’.
4. Click on desired end point to place the receiver. The
‘Parameters’ dialog for receiver appears.
Figure 68 – Path Profile – TX Parameters
5. Provide antenna height for the receiver and click ‘OK’.

The path profile is generated and shown on the screen.

Note: The Rx antenna heights required in transmitter and

receiver dialogs are for the receiver only and have Figure 69 - – Path Profile – RX Parameters
thus to be identical. If they differ, only the antenna height specified for the receiver will be taken into
account.

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 If a network element occupies the map point, it is still possible to locate the transmitter/receiver
independently from this object by doing a left-click then choosing ‘Continue’ when the mouse cursor
becomes a hand.

7.2. PATH PROFILE BETWEEN A NETWORK ELEMENT AND A POINT ON THE MAP
To generate a path profile between a network element and a point on the map is like generating the
profile between two points, considering that the object installed on the map acts as one of the points.

To make a network element an end position in the path profile:

1. Launch the tool by choosing ‘Path Profile’.

2. Move the mouse cursor on the desired network element, so the cursor becomes a hand.
3. Left-click on the element’s symbol and choose its callsign.

Either transmitter or receiver parameters are taken from parameters of selected network element.

7.3. PATH PROFILE BETWEEN TWO NETWORK ELEMENTS

Generating of path profile between two network objects may be accomplished by:

1. Selecting both transmitter and receiver from existing network elements (see Section 7.2 – PATH PROFILE
BETWEEN A NETWORK ELEMENT AND A POINT ON THE MAP)

2. Using ‘Profile to’ or ‘Profile from’ functions, available in network element’s context menu.

Both transmitter and receiver parameters are taken from parameters of selected network elements.

8. Calculating Coverage
Once a network is built on the map, it is possible to obtain coverage calculation. Coverage is calculated
for each network element whereas the graphical progress of coverage appears clockwise around the
object(s) on the Display Area.

Before running the coverage calculations, it is recommended to plan previously:

− Propagation model to be used.

− Parameters of land use classes (clutter layer), if used.
− Distance of calculation.
− Cut off threshold and its units.

− Height mode (default is AGL). For instance, above ground level – see 3.4.4-HEIGHT MODE SETTINGS BUTTON.

Calculation speed can be enhanced using multi-core processing (if supported by hardware) - check
option ‘Multicore Parallelism’ in ‘File → Preferences’. This option is enabled by default. More about this
option can be found in Section 11.3-USER PREFERENCES.

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 It is recommended to enable ‘Multicore Parallelism’ option in single HTZ communications instance.
An alternative solution to speed up calculation speed of bigger networks is to open multiple HTZ
communications sessions in parallel with ‘Multicore Parallelism’ disabled, to allow optimal multi-
threading.

8.1. PROPAGATION MODEL

The behavior and coverage of radio-frequency signals are predicted employing some mathematical
and physical rules, known as propagation models. HTZ communications provides a comprehensive set
of propagation models, both empirical and geometrical. Moreover, custom models (in-house models)
can be integrated as DLL file.

The propagation control dialog can be opened from ‘Tools →

Propagation model’ and then by clicking ‘Model’ button within the
‘Propagation model selector’ dialog, which shows up:

Figure 70 – Propagation model window

The general model to work with should be the geometrical (physical) one, considering:
− Propagation losses in free space.
− Diffraction losses.
− Sub-paths losses.

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The diffraction component models losses due to obstacles in the path between Tx and Rx, for instance,
disturbing the upper part of I Fresnel zone.

Note: Earth radius (in sea or land) described in ‘Global parameters’, not corresponds to the physical one
(i.e. 6371 km.) but the effective radioelectric earth radius equivalent to about 4/3 of the physical value.

The sub-paths component reproduces added losses, which may occur due to disturbance of Fresnel
zone below LOS (line-of-sight) line. In a rigorous model, these losses are not diffraction but can be
worth considering in the total radio path budget.

Other additional phenomena, such as reflections or climate-related losses, can be additionally

considered in the propagation modeling as well.

Many of radio propagation studies can be satisfied with the following choice of propagation models:

Free space Diffraction Sub-paths*

Deygout 94
ITU-R 525 Standard
method
Coarse integration
Fine integration

* choice may depend on cartographic resolution and transmitter height

As a rule of thumb, the selection of sub-paths algorithm may follow the table:

Cartographic data Transmitter height

resolution below 50-60 m above 50-60 m

Low
COARSE FINE
(e.g. 100 m)

Medium
COARSE FINE
(e.g. 50 m)

High
STANDARD STANDARD
(e.g. 5 m)

Standard integration method is the most precise but requires longer computation times. However, it
may be used in any case. Additional information regarding propagation modeling can be found in
technical document RADIO PROPAGATION IN ATDI TOOLS from http://data.atdi-
group.com/doc/Radio%20Propagation%20in%20ATDI%20tools.pdf

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8.2. CLUTTER PARAMETERS
Setting parameters of land use classes, or clutter, can aid modeling the propagation of radio signal.
‘Clutter parameters window’ provides many options for adjusting clutters characteristic and can be
accessed from ‘Tools → Clutter Options’ menu. It can also be opened from ‘Propagation Model’ window
as well as from ‘Propagation model selector’ dialog.

Figure 71 - Clutter parameters

HTZ communications can use maximum 20 classes of clutter. It is possible to select predefined values
agreeing to recent international recommendations. For instance, agreeing with CCIR, only 9 classes are
well defined and, corresponding to recommendation of EBU (UER), only 5. Additionally, attenuations
according to TSB-88 report are available (746-941 MHz). The default parameters of the classes can be
activated by selecting the CCIR or UER radio button in the ‘Clutter parameters’ window.

Note: The CCIR and EBU(UER) attenuation varies with frequency.

Clutter class 9 in HTZ communications has special meaning as it is used to map building layer, which
enables in turn reading of building heights from that latter.

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 EBU/UER EBU/UER
Code CCIR Class Code CCIR Class
Equivalent Class Equivalent Class

0 Rural Rural 5 Forest Forest

1 Suburban Suburban 6 Hydro Hydro

2 Urban 8m Urban 7 Urban 50m Urban

3 Urban 15m Urban 8 Wood Forest

4 Urban 30m Urban Roof or

9 -
Road

Using default values from CCIR or EBU (UER) is not obligatory. Custom values may be entered for linear
and flat attenuations as well as clutter heights.

In addition to flat attenuation values and height of clutter which are significant in diffraction loss
calculation, others radio-frequency characteristics can take into consideration:

− Linear absorption (attenuation dB/km).

− Position of the receiver within clutter (Rx over ground spot, over ground relaxed, over ground).
− Position of the transmitter within clutter (Tx over ground, over clutter).

Note: Rx over ground relaxed allows mitigating the situation that receiver is sunken within heavy clutter.

Detailed information about how clutters are handled by HTZ communications can be found in the
document: ‘CLUTTER PARAMETERS, which may be found in ATDI DOCUMENT CENTER at http://data.atdi-
group.com/doc/Radio%20Propagation%20in%20ATDI%20tools.pdf.

8.3. DISTANCE FOR CALCULATIONS

To evaluate the distance involved in coverage calculation, the user should take into consideration:

− Desired coverage area of the network element.

− Extents of digital cartography used for the project.
− Wanted and interfered coverage.
The smaller the distance is, the faster a coverage calculation of an object is.

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 Calculation distance can be set either globally or per individual network element:
− Globally

- From graphical bar, click on button ‘ Settings → Limit distance xxx km’, where xxx stands
for current distance limit.

- From control buttons in the higher right corner click on ‘ Coverage calculations and
analysis‘ → ‘Tx/Rx FS coverage calculation’ to open ‘Coverage parameters' dialog.
− Individually per network element

- Select the object in map, click on ‘Parameters’ to show the parameters window.

- Go to tab ‘Site’ and set a new ‘Limit dist. (km)’ value.

- Finally, and to modify the calculation mode, from graphical bar, click on button ‘ Settings →
Limit distance from stations’.
Note: For radar objects, the limit is calculated automatically – radar limit parameter. If global distance limit is
shorter than radar limit, the coverage of radar is adjusted accordingly.

8.4. COVERAGE THRESHOLD

Coverage threshold (or simply “threshold”) is the minimum level of signal level, field strength in dBµV/m
or power level in dBm that is taken into account during coverage calculation and therefore yet displayed
on the result map. Signals below the threshold are not displayed and it represents no coverage.

The threshold typically follows the link budget calculations or is chosen according to technology used
in the network. HTZ communications allows choosing from pre-defined list of technology-specific
thresholds.

Threshold can be configured globally for entire network or individually per network element. To start
threshold setup, from graphical bar choose button ‘ Settings → Threshold’.

Figure 72 – Threshold coverage

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In ‘Global threshold’ mode, the threshold is always expressed in field strength units – dBµV/m (often
abbreviated as dBu).

In ‘Threshold from stations’ mode – i.e. where threshold is defined per object, the threshold can be
either expressed as field strength or as power level in dBm. The threshold value is indicated as ‘Auto’,
which means it is taken from ‘Cover. threshold’ field on ‘Advanced’ tab of ‘Tx/Rx parameters’ and applied
to coverage of each network element.

The pre-defined list of technology thresholds is available to choose from by clicking the button ‘ ’,
located next to Threshold value field.

Note: Pay attention to option ‘Minimum coverage value (dBu)’ in preferences – see section 11.3.3 - INTERFERENCE
for details. Value specified there limits the coverage displayed on the map. It may be the case the coverage
is calculated to the threshold but finally not displayed because of the limit specified in preferences.

8.5. RUNNING THE COVERAGE CALCULATIONS

To perform coverage calculations, it is necessary to set up the project previously with:

− Network objects.
− A Coverage prediction model.
− Clutter settings.
− Calculation distance.
− Cut off threshold.

To start calculation:

1. From control buttons in the higher right corner click on ‘

Coverage calculations and analysis‘ → ‘Tx/Rx
field strength calculation’. ‘Coverage parameters’
window pops up.

Alternatively, choose ‘Coverage → Network calculation

→ Tx/Rx FS coverage’ from main menu to get
‘Coverage parameters’ window opened.

Figure 73 – Coverage parameters

2. Make sure the receiving antenna height, the distance, and the threshold values correspond to desired ones.

3. Click ‘Start’ button to initiate calculation of coverage. The progress is manifested graphically around
activated station and the radials appear clockwise until calculation is finished. The process is continued until
all activated stations are calculated.
4. Coverage map is displayed in the Display Area (unless threshold or height reference settings prevent it).

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8.6. COVERAGE CALCULATION OPTIMIZATION
To improve time consumed and result accuracy, it is important to heed some factors regarding
cartography resampling factor, clutter, and distance for calculation.

8.6.1. CALCULATION DISTANCE

Through the “Settings” button in the left toolbar, the user can choose the maximum distance from each
station for coverage to be calculated (see Section 8.3 - DISTANCE FOR
CALCULATIONS). Reducing the distance, it helps to decrease
computing time.

Choose the option “Limit Distance: XXX km…” to set up a global

distance to the project. The coverage is calculated in a circle area (or
square area, depending on the option chosen in the File/Preferences
box) with XXX km radius from each station.
Figure 74 – Limit distance

Chose the option “Limit distance from stations,” to use a specific distance from each site to calculate its
coverage. For example, low power stations might be computed using a smaller range than high power
ones. Assign the minimum distance to each station to cover the area of interest optimizing the
computing time. Set up this distance for each element in its Parameters window, Site tab:

A similar procedure may be followed to

perform coverage calculation only inside a
specific sector around station: through
“Settings” button in left toolbar (for a
global sector) or station Parameters
Window.

Figure 75 –Station Parameters window: limit calculation distance

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8.6.2. RESAMPLING FACTOR
During project loading in Project Manager Window (see section 3.2.2), the integer value for DTM
resampling helps to optimize calculation time for values greater than one. Likewise, in some scenarios
simple calculation is required so there is no need to load the maximum dataset.

Figure 76 –Project manager window – Resampling factor

Tip: For example, for non-deterministic models (such as ITU-R P.1546, ITU-R P.370, ITU-R P.368), there
is no necessary to perform coverage calculations with a 20m dataset. A 100m resolution is enough.

Note: Using High-resolution databases (1 to 5m), a generic and straightforward propagation model is
recommended. See section 8.1-Propagation model. Regarding ITU-R P.452 and ITU-R P.1812,
the computing time required for High-Resolution databases is prolonged. Moreover, the way
these models are dealing with obstacles does not justify the use of HR databases.

8.6.3. GRID STEP

This tool allows user to set up the number of pixels to be taken into account during the simulations. For
instance, grid step factor=2 means that only 1 pixel out of 2 is considered. Grid step factor=3, 1 pixel
out of 3, and so on, up to 10. Computing times are accelerated in this manner but because:

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 - The Grid step value influences calculation resolution
and results in accuracy. A calculation performed with
grid = 1 is more accurate than a calculation carried
out with grid = 3. The results should be analyzed
according to the Grid step value applied to the
calculation;
- For simulation made with a Grid step factor > 1, the
resulting coverage is saved resampled by the grid
value.

Figure 77 – Grid step factor

- A 4 directions interpolation calculates the field strength values for non-computed points. It is no
recommended using a Grid step greater than 1 for coverage calculations.

8.6.4. CLUTTER FILTER

Excluding some clutter classes from coverage calculations, it speeds up computing time. Before
performing coverage calculation, within the Coverage parameters box, click on Options button to display
Advanced coverage parameters window.

Figure 78 – Clutter selector for coverage calculation

Check only the specific clutter where the coverage calculation should be performed. Only field strength
values or interference values superimposed over selected ground occupancy code(s) is calculated.

Additionally, coverage calculation may be done within a specific altitude range in the DEM. Use the
fields min elev (m) and max elev (m) for that.

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Maximum distance (global) for the calculation may also be addressed from this window, by clicking the
button . Additionally, Check the box “Near/far field calculations” to perform coverage
calculations in the near field.

8.6.5. REMOTE SIMULATION

HTZ communications allows starting multiple sessions on the same machine or through a VMware
to complete a coverage calculation. More about remote simulation can be found in the document
‘OPTIMIZING COVERAGE CALCULATIONS COMPUTING TIME’, which may be found in http://data.atdi-
group.com/doc/Optimizing%20coverage%20calculations.pdf

8.7. COVERAGE ANALYSIS

Once the coverage is calculated, the composite map of field strength is shown in the Display Area.
Additionally, various other coverage presentations are available and can be indicated by:
− Clicking on Control buttons in the higher right corner ‘ Coverage calculations and analysis‘ and
selecting desired analysis (limited choice)

− Choose the analysis from menu ‘Coverage → Network analysis’ (full set of analyses).

Figure 79 – Network analysis

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Next figures show some analysis examples (the list does not cover all available analyses):
Best Server coverage in default
Composite coverage Site Overlapping
(and in user) colors

Shows composite map of Shows areas covered by Shows in pink the areas
field strength. best station (best serving that are covered by both
'Coverage → Network station), in objects’ default stations, i.e. stations
analysis → Composite or definied by user colors coverages overlap there.
coverage display'. (window ‘Parameters’, tab 'Coverage → Network
‘Site’, parameter ‘Site analysis → Coverage
color’). overlapping '
'Coverage → Network
analysis → Best server → 1st
server '.

Limited Simultaneous Coverage Station Difference between sites

Shows map of sectors For sites #2 and #3 in the

covered by given number of example: Shows the map of
stations within additional field strength difference
constraint of min-max field between specified 2 stations.
strength (specified by user). Coverage → Network analysis
→2 sites differences.
Coverage → Network analysis
→ Simultaneous site display.

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The coloring of any map is dependent on color palette. The colors may be either adjusted automatically
by HTZ communications (default) or be customized according to user needs (colors, labels, thresholds
of values). The default palette can use 256-colour depth to present maps in a smooth manner.

From main menu, select ‘Tools → User palette’ to open the palette window:

Figure 80 – User palette

Default values can be brought back by clicking appropriate button on the right side of palette window.

Aditionnnally, customized palette can be saved onto disk in a (.P11) palette file and loaded at future
time.

Coverage map can also be modified by filtering out the desired values. The filters may be general as
well as performing specific action, i.e. limiting the field strength values. To open the ‘Filter’ window,
from main menu go to ‘Map → Filter → General filter’ after finishing the coverage calculation.

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 Figure 81 – Filter window

This utility allows filtering map with regards to:

− Clutter choice.
− Elevation min/max.
− Value min/max.
− Area limited (Station extended radius, Station sector, vectors, ...).

By selecting the desired ranges and clicking ‘Compute’ button, it is possible to report basic statistics
within area covered (i.e. meeting the filter criteria). Once the filter is applied by clicking ‘OK’ button,
results for filter criteria are displayed with different color in map.

The general filter window is also used to report the percentage of a polygon that is covered:

1. Click button and select ‘Draw mask’ or ‘Load mask’ or ‘Import polygon’ and click continue on the
context menu once it appeared.

2. From popup menu select ‘Percentage covered’ to open the general filter window.

3. Click ‘Compute’ button to report percentage covered by the polygon.

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 Figure 82 – Coverage percentage

More information about the general filter in: http://data.atdi-group.com/doc/122.pdf.

Finally, various useful reporting utilities are available from ‘Reports’ menu. For instance, ‘Reports →
Coverage Report’ provides best server and interference area statistics for each network element.
Additionally, ‘Reports → Polygon Covered’ allows reporting the coverage statistics within polygon; the
polygon may be present in the vector file or be loaded from shapefile (.SHP) or MapInfo interchange
file (.MIF).

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9. Interference Analysis and Frequency Assignment
Having the coverage calculated for the network in the project, it is possible to perform interference
analysis and finally, the frequencies can be assigned to network elements.

9.1. INTERFERENCE ANALYSIS

Interference calculation engines are available from menu ‘Coverage → Network interference’.

Various calculation methods are available, such as:

− C/I method - used for analyzing interference between signal of same bandwidth.
− IRF (NFD) method – mainly with signals with different bandwidth.
− W/CDMA Maps.

As example, C/I mode will be presented in this section. The concept of IRF (NFD) and methods of
acquiring IRF values are addressed in Section 11.2 - INTERFERENCE REJECTION FACTOR (NET FILTER
DISCRIMINATION) and in technical document INTERFERENCE REJECTION FACTOR (Net Filter Discrimination),
available in http://data.atdi-group.com/doc/Interference%20Rejection%20Factors.pdf.

C/I protection ratio characterizes the ability to receive the wanted signal (C) in the presence of
interference (I). For example, for co-channel signals, C/I = 14 dB means that the wanted signal must be
at least 14 dB better than interfering signal of the same frequency (co-channel), in order the receiver
decodes it properly. Minus values mean that wanted signal can be weaker than interfering one by given
number of decibels.

To start analyzing interference in C/I mode, select ‘Coverage → Network interference → C/I mode.' The
‘Interference (C/I)’ window shows up:

Before starting the analysis, so-called receiver

protection ratios, or C/I ratios, need to be defined for
the network. Typically, C/I values for given type of
equipment are provided in relevant data sheets.

Click ‘C/I’ button to open ‘Protection ratio’ window.

Figure 83 – C/I Interference window

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 Figure 84 – Protection ratio window

C/I ratios can be acquired from three sources with the following priority:

− Priority 1: C/I from NFD matrix

− Priority 2: C/I from recommendations (pre-defined tables)
− Priority 3: C/I from user-defined IRF mask.

If option ‘C/I from NFD matrix’ in ‘NFD matrix – Priority 1’ group is checked, the interference analysis
engine considers this option in the first instance.

If C/I is not found (e.g. no NFD matrix), the available C/I tables are looked up in the second instance,
provided the check box ‘C/I from ITU-R …’ is checked.

Finally, if the C/I is still not found, the C/I is taken from the user-defined mask for channels ‘N=0’ (co-
channel), ‘N=1’ (adjacent channel), ‘N=2’, and so on.

Having defined the required protection ratios, click ‘OK’ button to confirm C/I settings.

Returning to ‘Interference (C/I)’ window, the rules for calculating the interference need to be set. ‘Global
interference’ requests the validation of any signal present at the pixel of digital map – if at least one is
found interfered, the pixel is regarded as interfered. ‘Interference + best server’ analysis limits the
judgment interfered/not interfered to the best serving signal only. Therefore, is much more optimistic
on the one hand but typically reflects the usual condition of the network (i.e. without stations outages)
on the other.

Should the network elements be using multiple radios, the option ‘Multi-channels’ must be activated.
Otherwise, the frequency assignment process do not recognize this requirement.

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Finally, click ‘Start’ button to begin the analysis of the interferences. As its result, the interference report
is created and displays the map of interfered. The areas of concern are colored in pink by default or by
user-defined color, which can be chosen in ‘Object → Object properties (F5)’ by clicking the color box
in ‘Interference/overlapping’ group.

Figure 85 – Global Interference example

9.2. FREQUENCY ASSIGNMENT

The completion of interference analysis allows for performing the automatic frequency assignment or
frequency planning.

The ‘Frequency assignment’ engine is available from menu ‘Coverage → Network planning → Network
frequency assignment’.

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 Figure 86 – Frequency assignment window

Before starting the process of automatic frequency assignment, the engine needs to be set up with
various parameters, including:

− Mode – e.g. band assignment, group assignment or list assignment.

− Rules – e.g. frequency spacing on the same site or polarization constraints.
− Assignment algorithm – e.g. sequential or iterative.
− Number of algorithm passes (not applicable to the exhaustive algorithm).

Frequency assignment mode depends on the availability of the frequency channels for the network.
The user has available the following options:

− Segment of wider band, which need to be “populated” with channels of given width and spacing – ‘Band
assignment’ may be used.
− Frequencies organized in groups – ‘Group assignment - multi-channels’ may be utilized.

− A few frequencies listed – ‘List assignment’ may be used to enter or load frequencies and use them for
assignment process.

− Special frequency plans that can be individually associated with network elements (‘General’ tab of ‘Tx/Rx
parameters’) – ‘Tx plan assignment’ may be used.
The choice of assignment algorithm depends mostly on the network technology and the level of desired
frequency reuse. Time available for running the assignment is crucial as well due trade-off should
between quality of frequency assignment and the length of calculation.

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Typically the networks of low-frequency reuse (e.g. GSM, TETRA or broadcasting) can be assigned by
iterative or sequential methods. Sequential method is quicker but less precise as it does not consider
interference coming from stations, which are still in the queue for assignment. Networks of higher
frequency reuse (e.g. WLL) would probably require Monte Carlo method.

The exhaustive method is the most complex and time-consuming as it is independent from number of
defined passes and analyses all possible combinations, seeking the best solution for assignment and
lowest interference. The limit of analyzed combinations is 232 (4 294 967 296).

The rules, which are applied for seeking the assignment solution, typically depend on type of network
under design, requirements for frequency allocation and available channels.

With the frequency assignment configured as well desired parameters, the frequency assignment
process can be started by clicking ‘Start’ button. After the completion of the allocation, the ‘Frequency
Assignment’ report shows up. The assigned frequencies can be displayed as black labels next to each
network element by pressing <f> key on the keyboard. The frequency assignment may be followed by
re-run of interference analysis to check the impact of new frequencies on the coverage.

Figure 87 – Frequency assignment results

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 Interference before automatic Interference after automatic
frequency assignment frequency assignment

Figure 88 – Interference example: automatic frequency assignment

Note: Interference analysis and frequency assignment are fully described in the document: ‘FREQUENCY
ASSIGNMENT AND INTERFERENCE ANALYSIS.PDF’, available in http://data.atdi-
group.com/doc/Frequency%20Assignment%20and%20interference%20analysis.pdf

10. Printing
After network design and analysis process, it is common to prepare printouts – maps.

Printing functionality is available from various functions and dialog windows of HTZ communications. It
may allow printing of, e.g., a part of a project, reports and analysis, microwave link budgets, results list,
path profile and so on.

The maps can be printed from the main menu or using the rectangle tool.

The main menu offers 2 main methods for printing and are detailed in the below sections:

- ‘File → Print → Print map.’ Including options for setting up printouts with maps and legend.

- ‘File → Print → Print Layout’ Facilitates creation of layouts, which can be stored as
templates for further usage.

Batch printing of individual profiles for microwave links and subscribers can be performed with function
‘File → Print → Batch profile → [Microwave links, Subscribers]’. Profiles for subscribers can be printed
for both directions with path budget or without.

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10.1. PRINT MAP
Use ‘File → Print → Print map’ function to prepare a map with legend and send it to printer. The ‘Print
Options’ dialog shows up:

Figure 89 – Print options

The dialog provides the following functionality:

− Output layer group allows selecting what layers to be printed (image, results, objects).
− Objects section, allows setting the legend, the options on how objects are printed (site numbering on/off
and object properties). ‘Plot File Name’ button provides a way to include in the printout (and in the map
displayed in Display Area) an additional result layer from external text file. The hint on required format of the
text file is shown once the button is clicked.

− Image treatment group allows setting graphic parameters of the map and result layers.
− Output selection group lists the basic information of the output.
− Output button opens the ‘Print Setup’ dialog. This dialog allows selecting the desired output device
(hardware or disk file) and setting the parameters of the printout like page orientation, image quality, color
depth, scaling options, and so on.

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 Figure 90 – Print setup window

− ‘Preview’ button provides the feel on how the printout will look like with the selected settings.
− ‘Site by site’ checkbox, if checked, prints the individual maps for each activated network elements. Legend,
additional plot file, and preview are disabled for site by site printing. After printout is done, the coverage of
last site in the queue is displayed.

Legend:

The legend for the printout may be set up by clicking ‘Legend’ button available in the ‘Print Options’
dialog, which helps to customize the layout and content, including following options:

− Labels generated automatically for thresholds related to the type of result map but they may be changed
manually or removed from the legend. Check appropriate ‘Removed’ checkbox next to the item to remove
it from printout.
− Layout, which by default is single column layout. Up to 3-column layout may be set up with Title, Subtitle
and legend text. Adjust the design to the needs and paper size. Also, text within columns can be aligned to
the left, right or centered.
− Logo images. Up to 2 images can be defined, Logo 1 and Logo 2. By default, the tool suggests standard
logotypes located in the HTZ communications installation folder. Both logos are placed vertically in 1st
column. In single column, the size of default images at 96 dpi are Logo 1 200x40 pixels, Logo 2 200x200
pixels. For multiple columns, both logos are displayed in 1st column but their width can be multiplied
accordingly.
− Use BMP as legend. This option allows replacement of standard legend by custom legend prepared in the
form of 96 dpi bitmap. The width of legend bitmap should not be larger than 192 pixels (1-column layout),
374 pixels (2-column layout) and 480 pixels (3-column layout).

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 Figure 91 – Print legend setup

10.2. PRINT LAYOUT

Function ‘File → Print → Print Layout’ provides a different approach to preparing the hard copies.

Drag & Drop

Figure 92 – Print layout space

The user works with sort of preview canvas representing a sheet, on which individual objects can be
placed by dragging and dropping. Objects are listed on left side of the Print Layout window, and they
may be:

− H/V pattern diagrams.

− Text box – editable text box to specify a custom text.
− Parameters table – simplified or full listing of object parameters.
− Map – the layers to be printed: image/elevation and results.

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 − Image – the box to display and image from a disk file.
− Legend – Legend with automatic thresholds and custom labels.

From the list of available objects, drag an item into the layout to include it on sheet.

To remove or resize an object do a right-click on it and select ‘Remove Item’ and ‘Resize’ accordingly.
Resizing of text box is not possible and it depends on the font size selected.

Items Options:

Each object has associated options, appropriate for the function it serves. Do a right-click on an object
and select ‘Options’ depending on type of an object:

− Horizontal Pattern can be displayed in linear, logarithmic or percentage scale.

Figure 93 – Print layout: Horizontal pattern properties

− Vertical Pattern can be displayed in polar or Cartesian view; the latter can be either in logarithmic or in linear
scale, within given range of angles.

Figure 94 – Print layout: Vertical pattern configuration

− Parameters can be adjusted according to details of information to provide as well as text style to be used.

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 Figure 95 – Print layout: Parameters configuration

− Legend can be vertical or horizontal showing labels and values. Labels can be entered manually by the user.

Figure 96 – Print layout: Legend properties

− Maps can be printed as image or terrain elevation and have coverage (result) layer super-positioned. Image
treatment slider is available to adjust individual look of the printout. The geographical extents of the printout
can be adjusted by entering the distances East to West and North to South. The way how objects will be
printed depends on ‘Object Properties’, available by clicking the button labeled identically.

Figure 97 – Print layout: Map properties

− An image is a placeholder for raster figures of various types like BMP, TIFF, PNG, JPG, GIF, EMF, WXF, WMF.
Example usage is to include the company logo on the printout.

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 Figure 98 – Print layout: Image properties

− Text Box can be used to create custom text strings and place them on the printout. Text formatting options
are available to adjust font type, size, style and align the text within the box. ‘Insert field ’ button gives
access to pre-defined auto-texts, such as Call sign, Frequency or Data/Time.

Figure 99 – Print layout: Text Box properties

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11. Appendix

11.1. MULTI-MAPS
Multimap is a file type which can link together multiple resolutions image files and coordinate grid
systems. Components of multi-map file are in compressed .RIM format. The resultant multi-map file is
stored in .MIM format. This file format can be used directly in Project Manager as image background,
instead of .IMG file.

Multi-map .MIM file can be composed from .RIM files using the inbuilt utility available at ‘File →
Multimap editor’. Compressed image files or .RIM files can be prepared in turn using another related
utility, available from the multi-map editor window. The utility works in batch mode, so multiple .RIM
files can be prepared at one go with minimum preparation of required inputs.

11.1.1. MULTI-MAP EDITOR

‘Multi map editor’ utility is opened after launching the function. Multi-map files link paths to compressed
data layers of:

− MIM → links paths to RIM files (compressed image .IMG)

− MGE → links paths to RGE files (compressed elevation .GEO)
− MSO → links paths to RSO files (compressed clutter .SOL)
− MFL → links paths to RFL files (compressed field strength .FLD)
− MCO → links paths to RCO files (compressed country file .COD).

RGE, RSO, RFL, RIM and RCO files can be created from ‘File → Convert → Compress maps → ...’
features.

The multimap editor window as of the utility is just launched contains no information. It is necessary to
designate a name for a new multimap file first or open an existing one for editing by choosing either
‘File → New’ or ‘File → Open’ from the menu. The process is illustrated below for a .MIM file.

Once a .MIM file is opened, the tool scans the folder of that .MIM seeking for available .RIM files. The
files found are displayed on the list in the lower part of the editor. The top list shows the content of the
.MIM opened/created; shows no files for newly designated multimap file.

Each of individual .RIM files can be previewed for reference – highlight the desired file and click relevant
‘ ‘ button to open ‘Map display’ window.

.RIM files that are components of .MIM file are added from list of available files to the content of .MIM
file – use buttons ‘ ’ or ‘ ’. After all desired files are added, make sure the .MIM file is
saved onto the disk by selecting ‘File → Save’.

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Figure 100 – Multimap Editor main window

Figure 101 – Multimap Editor – Preparing .MIM File

Controls – as of just launched

Menu items
Menu ‘File’
Opens ‘Multimap type’ selection dialog; user selects the desired type and confirms the
choice by clicking ‘OK’ button; button ‘Cancel’ disregards the choice. Select ‘MIM –
Image’ to create multi-map that can be used with HTZ communications (default
suggestion).

New…

Having made a selection a standard save file dialog ‘Select file location’ is opened to
specify the path and name of new MIM file.
Opens a standard open file dialog ‘Select multimap file’ to read existing multi-map file
Open…
from disk.
Close Closes the multi-map file that is currently being composed.
Save Save the selection of .RIM files into previously designated MIM file.
Exit Closes the ‘Multi map editor’.
Menu ‘Help’
Help… Currently no action assigned.

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 Buttons
Batch conversion Runs the routine for batch converting of IMG/PAL files to RIM files.
IMG+PAL -> RIM
…
Controls – after MIM file created on disk
Groups
Multi map maps list - Lists RIM files added to the MIM multi-map file.
upper
Multi map maps list – Lists available rim files (in the folder of MIM file) that can be added to MIM multi-map
lower file.
Lists basic information about the MIM multi-map file like: Coordinate system, minimum
Multi map characteristics X coordinate (X origin), minimum Y coordinate (Y origin), resolution in X plane (X step),
(bottom left) resolution in Y plane (Y step), number of cells in X plane (NbptX), number of cells in Y
plane (NbptY).
Buttons
Opens ‘Map display’ window that allows advanced displaying of RIM file from ‘Selected
Preview…
maps’ list. Features zoom in, zoom out, area zoom, pan, reset display, coordinate
(upper)
system and coordinates display format change; double-click on the item acts similarly.
Remove Removes highlighted RIM item from ‘Selected maps’ list.
(upper)
Adds all found applicable RIM files in the folder chosen for MIM multi-map file to
Add all
‘Selected maps’ list.
Add selected RIM item from the folder chosen for MIM multi-map file to ‘Selected
Add
maps’ list.
Performs a rescan of the folder chosen for MIM multi-map file seeking for all applicable
Rescan
RIM items.
Opens ‘Map display’ window that allows advanced displaying of RIM file. Features
Preview…
zoom in, zoom out, area zoom, pan, reset display, coordinate system and coordinates
(lower)
display format change; double-click on the item acts similarly.
Controls of ‘Map Preview’ utility
Buttons
Opens ‘Display options’ window that allows setting the coordinate systems of map and
…
display, map rotation angle and format of coordinates displayed.
Quit Closes ‘Map display’ window.
Icons
Pointing mode.
Pan mode.
Zoom in / area zoom in.
Zoom out / area zoom out.
Reset zoom.
Quick zoom in.
Edits
(not editable) Displays coordinates of location pointed by mouse cursor
(not editable) Display color code of the location pointed by mouse cursor

More information about the Multimap editor can be found in:

http://data.atdi-group.com/doc/Multimap%20editor.pdf.

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11.1.2. PREPARING .RIM FILES IN BATCH MODE
Multi-map editor provides access to auxiliary routine for batch processing of .IMG/.PAL files to .RIM file.
Having clicked the button ‘Batch conversion IMG+PAL -> RIM…’, a dialog with setting procedure of
required input file is presented.

Figure 102 - Batch Multimap Conversion

Once the input file is ready, it can be selected in the standard open file dialog ‘Select batch file’, which
shows up after confirming the procedure by clicking ‘OK’; the conversion is started afterward. The
prepared .RIM files can be used to compose a multi-map file .MIM.

RGE, RSO, RFL, RIM and RCO files can also be created from ‘File → Convert → Compress maps
→ ...’ features.

11.1.3. USING MULTI-MAP IN A PROJECT

Once the .MIM file is created, it can be used as image background for the project. Open ‘File / Project
Manager’ and specify the path to the .MIM file for the ‘Map image (.IMG)’ item. The standard open file
dialog recognizes .MIM and .RIM formats on top of .IMG file format.

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 Figure 103 – Project Manager map image selector

After loading the project, it is possible to indicate in the Display Area regions covered by the multi-map
defined in the project setup – press <SPACE> key. The areas covered by multimap are highlighted by
red rectangles around.

Figure 104 – Covered zones in Multimap file

11.2. INTERFERENCE REJECTION FACTOR (NET FILTER DISCRIMINATION)

11.2.1. CONCEPT OF IRF / NFD

Interference Rejection Factor (IRF), also referred as Net Filter Discrimination (NFD), is the convolution of
transmitter’s power spectral density (PSD, W/Hz) and receiver’s filter selectivity - Rejection Filter (RF,
unit-less). Both PSD and RF are the functions of frequency offset from central frequency. Having both
converted into logarithmic scale allows convolving them into IRF (NFD) expressed in decibels.

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Following ETSI definition of Net Filter Discriminator (NFD), the notion can be explained as the ratio
between the interfering power and portion of the interfering power falling into the victim Rx filter.

In HTZ communications, the IRF can be defined by masks, matrices or tables. The example IRF mask
and matrix are shown in the figure:

Figure 105 – IRF Mask Example

IRF mask defines one rejection value per channel (co-channel: N = 0, adjacent: N = 1, N + 2 channel:
N = 2, etc.).

An NFD matrix represents the interference rejection factor (IRF) of the receiving equipment against a
given transmitting equipment for a given frequency delta. Set of matrices must be prepared to take
into account all pairs of transmitter-receiver equipment, for each transmitter and each receiver in the
network under design.

The drawback of IRF is that it requires significantly more information about transmitter and receiver
equipment. Often such information can be difficult to obtain, but HTZ communications provides some
means that can aid in defining the IRF. They include mentioned pre-defined tables and IRF Calc utility
(described further down) for example.

The IRF can be:

− User-Defined as IRF mask in the interference calculations dialog
− Defined manually as IRF matrix by specifying rejection values in the form of table

− Calculated automatically as IRF matrix and saved to .NFD file, with the help of IRF Calc utility.
Additionally, as mentioned, the IRF values can be derived automatically from pre-defined
recommendation tables for interference analysis.

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The engine for interference analysis in IRF mode (‘Coverage → Network interference → IRF mode’)
allows specifying the sources the IRF will be taken from. The priority of acquiring the IRF value is the
following:
− Priority 1: NFD matrix
− Priority 2: pre-defined tables
− Priority 3: user-defined IRF mask.
More about IRF (NFD) can be found in the following documents from Online Documentation Center
provided:

- INTERFERENCE REJECTION FILTER, available in

HTTP://DATA.ATDI-GROUP.COM/DOC/INTERFERENCE%20REJECTION%20FACTORS.PDF

- IRF MASKS.PDF, available in http://data.atdi-group.com/doc/IRF%20Masks.pdf

11.2.2. USER-DEFINED IRF MASK

For interference analysis in IRF mode – ‘Coverage → Network interference → IRF mode’ – user can
define global IRF mask by specifying rejection values for N = 0, N = 1, N = 2 channels. The channel
width is the bandwidth of the wanted signal being. The meaning of the rejection values as on the
example figure is the following:

N = 0, IRF = 0 dB. Co-channel interfering signal cannot be rejected; it is fully received

N = 1, IRF = 20 dB. Adjacent channel interfering signal can be reduced by 20 dB
N = 2, IRF = 33 dB. N + 2 channel interfering signal can be reduced by 33 dB.

Figure 106 – IRF Interference calculation

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11.2.3. IRF MATRIX MANUALLY SPECIFIED
The function 'Tools/ Extensions/NFD mask...’ aids to defines manually IRF matrix.

Figure 107 – IRF Mask example

The dialog offers 2 ways of defining the matrix rejection values:

− the quick method by specifying rejection values for up to 11 frequency deltas in MHz – ‘Shortcut’ group
− the standard method by specifying rejection values for -89 ÷ 89 steps of frequencies.

Quick method is self-explanatory, frequency offsets (deltas) are entered in 1st column while
corresponding IRF values in 2nd. Clicking ‘Update’ button to interpolate values for all -89 ÷ 89 steps.

The standard method requires entering rejection values for the [-89 ÷ 89] frequency steps (defined in
‘Step’ field) or at least for positive half [0 ÷ 89] only – the negative offsets will be interpolated once
‘Interpolate’ button is clicked. Of course, full set of data can be specified as well.

11.2.4. IRF MATRIX CALCULATED WITH IRF CALC

HTZ communications is provided with the utility IRF Calc. This utility allows provided for convenient
calculation of IRF. In that tool, both PSD and RF are treated as filter characteristics.

Tool can be run by selecting ‘Tools → Extensions → IRF Calculator’.

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 Figure 108 – NFD Calculator

The procedure of creating NFD is the following:

1. Load transmitter’s PSD file: button ‘Load .ts’; the PSD curve appears on the top graph
2. Edit header of the PSD and save as .ts file, if required

3. Give meaningful name in ‘IRF Tx name’ field (tx1 in this example)

4. Load receiver’s Rejection Filter characteristic file: button ‘Load .rif’; the rejection curve appears on the
middle graph
5. Edit header of the Rejection Filter and save as .rif file, if required

6. Give meaningful name in ‘IRF Rx name’ field (rx1 in this example)

7. Save the NFD curve displayed on the bottom graph to .NFD file: click ‘Save *.NFD’ button; in this example
file “tx1_rx1.NFD” will be created.

It is possible to create NFD files for all pairs of PDS/RF files found in the folders specified by the user.
This can be done in ‘Batch mode':

1. Specify disk folders where PSD and RF files are located

2. Select for which pairs of tx-rx the NFD are to be created:

3. Click ‘Build *.NFD’s’

4. All required NFD files are created in specified NFD folder in ‘IRF Computation’ group.

More about IRF Calc can be found in the document IRFCALC_V2.PDF from the Doc center tab in the CRM
account.

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11.3. USER PREFERENCES
User Preferences allow setting up some global parameters that are applied to analyses and calculations.
The preferences dialog is accessible from the main menu at ‘File → Preferences’ or through South
anchor in Display Area. A project needs to be loaded; otherwise, the dialog cannot be opened.

Figure 109 – User preferences

The desired set of preferences can be saved onto disk using a parameter file .PRM – button ‘Save’. It
can be recalled using ‘Load’ button. ‘Model’ and ‘Clutter’ buttons open the dialogs for setting up desired
RF modelling methods and options for ground occupancy layer – the clutter layer.

11.3.1. ANTENNAS
This group of options relates to the way how the antenna patterns are handled.

− Enhanced ERP/a3d Xpol – XPIC . The option allows taking into account the cross-polar discriminations (during
interference calculations or during calculating the wanted power in path budget) of antennas, which patterns
were defined by RPE files or A3D/X3D files.

− Default rx antenna height (m)

− Antenna height that is proposed for any coverage calculation.

Next options are related to handling the vertical pattern and radar antennas:

Mechanical tilt. Tilt is regarded as mechanical.

Electrical tilt. Tilt is considered electrical
Rotary Radar antenna (coverage). If checked, this option will consider for radar coverage calculations an
omni antenna in the horizontal plane.

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11.3.2. STATIONS
− Add Tx/Rx from list
If checked, the network element being added takes technical parameters from records stored internal
equipment database (‘Database → Other databases → TxRx parameter database’). Equipment
database should be populated before checking this option.
− Circular calculation limit
if checked, the coverage of an object is calculated according to circular distance limit. Otherwise, the
coverage boundary is rectangular; this circular coverage limit is automatically unchecked for Grid-Step factor
greater than 1 (button ‘ → Grid step factor’)

− Ghost Tx accepted - Tx outside map

If checked, the network elements which are located outside the DTM file can be shown in the Display Area
and included in the analysis
− Auto adjust azimuth and tilt for linked stations
If checked, the station being linked with another station gets its antenna azimuth and tilt oriented towards
it.
− Auto adjust azimuth and tilt for linked stations
If checked, the station being linked with another station gets its azimuth and tilt automatically updated
according to the link direction.
− Auto adjust NETID/Freqs for linked stations
If checked, the station being linked with another station gets its NETID and Freqs automatically updated.
− Prevent link creation if radio not compatible
If checked, the additional consistency constraints can be applied to stations being linked; inconsistency of
frequency, bandwidth, polarization, C/N+I, etc. is verified and if found the link is not created.
− Update site location from station coordinates
If checked, every time a network file .EWF is loaded, the site is positioned exactly at its coordinates
(‘Reference coordinates’ on ‘Site’ tab of ‘Tx/Rx parameters’ window) rather than at coordinates forced
by map pixel; this is notable for projects loaded with DTM resampling or on maps of coarser resolution than
originally used, as in such case the pixel coordinates may differ quite significantly from station exact
coordinates causing e.g. elevation inaccuracy.
− Automatic call-signs
If selected, new object created get unique call sign automatically generated

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 − Manual call-signs
If selected, the exclusive callsign is not automatically generated.

The following options apply to various functions, which provide results dependent on a range of heights
and allows setting the minimum/maximum range of heights permitted:

− Variable height range: from 1 m to 250 m.

− Variable height range: from 10 m to 2500 m.
− Variable height range: from 100 m to 25000 m.

11.3.3. INTERFERENCE
− No MW ATPC
If selected, Automatic Transmit Power Control (ATPC) is not taken into account for microwave link
interference calculation.
− Wanted power = P-ATPC / Unwanted = P
If selected, ATPC is taken into account in wanted power calculation for microwave links.
− Wanted power = P / Unwanted = P-ATPC
If selected, ATPC is taken into account in unwanted (interfering) power calculation for microwave links
− Wanted power = P-ATPC / Unwanted = P-ATPC
If selected, ATPC is taken into account in calculation of both wanted and unwanted (interfering) power.
− MW passive interference mode
If checked, the interference calculation takes into account the unwanted power from passive reflectors,
provided they are used by microwave links installed on map or present in MW database
− Change MW color if conflict
If checked the color of a microwave link is adjusted according to margin, Threshold Degradation, and type
of path (free space / diffracted) calculated by MW link budget and interference functions. See details on
how links are presented on the map in Section 5.1 - FUNCTIONAL TYPES. It is also possible to change the size
of the link drawn between the two MW link heads from there.
− Minimum coverage value (dBu)
The value below which the coverage is not calculated nor stored.
− Min co-site distance (m)
Minimum distance between 2 sites to compute co-site interference.
− Interference restriction [button]
Opens window where constraints related to interference calculations can be set; the constraints allow the
adjustment of interference calculation rules to fit network topology and characteristics.
− .FLD/.FDx/.CFDx default path [button]
Sets the default path to export coverage files (that can be used as an option of some interference features).

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11.3.4. PALETTE / DISPLAY
− DEM adaptive palette
If checked, the color palette for DEM layer is adjusted to fit minimum-maximum of the area shown for the
current zoom level.
− Coverage oversampling
Coverage anti-aliasing display option. If checked, the resulting layer displayed on top of image layer gets
smoothed.
− User palette [button]
Allows the definition of customized user color palettes, e.g. with custom thresholds, colors, and labels
− Object properties [button]
Opens properties dialog for network elements to set how they are displayed on the map.

11.3.5. COORDINATE UNITS

− MGRS (WGS84 – standard)
If selected, the coordinates are presented as string following the Military Grid Reference System
− BNGR
If selected, the coordinates are portrayed as strings following the British National Grid Reference; only valid
for maps covering the area defined by Ordnance Survey National Grid and fitting UTM projections; if other
than UTM projection is used, the location may still be specified by BNGR code
− INGR
If selected, the coordinates are presented as strings following the Irish National Grid Reference; only valid
for maps covering the area defined by Ordnance Survey Ireland National Grid and fitting UTM projections;
if other than UTM projection is used, the location may still be specified by INGR code
− Standard
The coordinates are handled according to specified output grid projection.

11.3.6. SUBSCRIBERS
− Max parented subscribers per station (bit rate parenting)
The maximum value for the quantity of subscribers that can be parented to single station in bit rate
parenting mode
− Max movable distance (mobile subscriber)
Maximum allowed movable distance for subscribers defined as mobiles. Introduces a pseudo-random
behavior of subscribers during planning (e.g. parenting, prospective planning, interference, etc.) - mobile
subscriber may be relocated to new locations within the maximum allowed movable distance.
− Subscriber/station call-sign checking
If checked, the parented subscriber is shown as orphan on the map if its callsign does not match the parent
callsign, e.g. after callsign of parent station is changed.

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 − Orient sub antenna – parenting
If checked, each parented subscriber gets its antenna oriented (azimuth and tilt) towards the parent station.
− Highlight orphan subscribers
If checked, orphan subscribers will be highlighted (with pink color by default) on the map.

11.3.7. USER INTERFACE

− Full menus and popup menus
If unchecked, features that cannot be run due to the lack of required inputs are hidden
− Multicore parallelism
If checked, the multicore support is enabled, i.e. each instance of HTZ communications uses all cores of all
processors (for multiprocessor machines). If disabled, the multi-threading takes priority – each session uses
one of the cores (if available). To speed up single session, it is recommended to enable this option. To speed
up calculation times when multiple instances are run, it is recommended to disable this option.
− Force CPU usage
If checked, the calculations will use all cores at their maximum rate.
− Bulk coverage audit
If checked, the simulation parameters used for the coverage calculation of each station will be stored as
PRM files in the \Base\AUDIT subfolder and attached to each station. Information can be displayed in
Coverage info (General tab).
− Skip Tab / Box report – open CSV
If checked, the presentation of particular results in the form of report is omitted; the results are only listed
in CSV format.
− CSV list separator / num
Edit fields allow specifying the separator character to be used for lists and decimal point.
− Code page
Set the Windows Code Page Identifiers corresponding to the environment to be considered (for alphabet
or Unicode characters).
− Report from external PGM

If checked, ‘Select external program’ dialog shows up, and the user can select a custom application for
reporting purposes. The ‘ ’ button allows selecting the executable regardless the status of the check box.
− GE export: KMZ
If checked, results exported to Google Erath will use the KMZ format. Otherwise, the KML format is used.
− Shared DB STATION/ DB MW
If checked, multiple instances of HTZ communications can share the same database of stations and
microwave links. This is useful to speed up calculations and analysis of wide networks, consisting of
significant number of elements
− Shared .CSV reports
If checked, multiple instances of HTZ communications can share the same CSV reports. This is useful when
custom templates are shared by multiple users.
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 − Autosave coverage in player
Automatically saves the new coverage result in coverage list.
− Autosave project: objects/settings
Automatically saves project objects (EWFx) and settings (IPRM) after calculation.
− Play sound at the end of process
A sound is generated at the end of each calculation.

− Dynamic map selector / display options

Activates anchors (East, West, North, South) around Display Area. To use this feature, pass the mouse over
each anchor, and their corresponding window shows up.

11.3.8. BUTTONS
- Model. Opens the window of propagation model settings.
- Clutter. Opens clutter options parameters window.
- Indoor. Opens a dialog where parameters of material of which building floors are made of; used
for indoor calculations only.
- Status. Opens a dialog to set user defined status flags that are used for objects.
- Load. Recalls a previous .PRM saved.
- Save. Saves onto disk a parameter file .PRM.
- Folders. See section 0-FOLDER STRUCTURE.

11.4. FOLDER STRUCTURE

During installation, HTZ communications creates a default set of libraries and folder structure. This default
configuration lets work for quick network deployment, testing, and learning-as-you-go. However, user can
modify links when necessary through ’File → Folders’ menu.

Figure 110 – Folder structure

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 - Temporary folder. Displays the path to the temporary folder where temporary files generated by
the current session will be stored. The path cannot be modified from there but from ’File →
Temporary folder’ menu. The ‘Empty temporary folder on exit’ option will remove temporary files
when exiting the tool.
- Library. Sets path to the folder with the internal databases containing antennas, equipment,
subscribers, frequencies and so on.
- Satellite. Sets path to satellite database and GXT Files.
- WSD. Links folder to White Space Maps.
- Plugins. In this folder the user can place external propagation models and mail service configuration
files.
- Addon. In this folder the user can place add-ons.
- SQL. Sets the path of links with SQL databases used.
- GDAL. Sets the path to the GDAL library.
- Project. Defines the default location to load and save project files (EWF, PRO, FLD, etc.). If not set,
the last location used will be recalled. The ‘Do not set project path’ button will reset the Project
path.

11.5. FILE TYPES RELATED TO HTZ COMMUNICATIONS

*.PRO: Project file linking cartographic data, objects, parameters, etc.

Note:
Older versions of project file had *.PRJ or *.PJT extensions.

*.GEO: Cartographic data file containing Digital Terrain Model or Digital Elevation Model; can be modified
by the user as altitude of pixels can be changed; 16-bit raster file coded on 2 Bytes. Compressed format of
that layer is *.RGE. Multimap format of that layer is *.MGE.
*. IDR: Equivalent of Digital Terrain Model for indoor projects; contains definitions of materials used for the
floor of building – concrete, bricks, wood, etc.; 16-bit raster file coded on 2 Bytes.
*.IMG: Cartographic background (image) file that can contain map or satellite image; 8-bit raster file coded
on 1 Byte (256 colors). Compressed format of that layer is *.RIM. Multimap format of that layer is *.MIM.
Access to online maps required a *.BIM file.
*.PAL: Palette file that accompanies the image file; ensures proper display of the image file. Not used for
BIM format.
*.SOL : Cartographic data file containing Land Use / Land Cover definitions; can be modified by the user as
clutter code of pixels can be changed; 8-bit raster file coded on 1 Byte. Compressed format of that layer is
*.RSO. Multimap format of that layer is *.MSO.
*.EWFx: File containing network elements, i.e. station type with associated coverage (if calculated and
saved), path and links. Old format is *.EWF.
*.EWX: XML-based version of network file. This format follows the SQL structure of the database exchange
table “HTZtables.mdb”.
*.PRM: File stores the set of simulation parameters defined by the user for clutter, propagation model, etc.

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 *.VEC: Vector file storing vector objects created by the user on map.
*.MAP: Map server file containing up to 60 links to image files in various scales.
*.P11 : 12-colour palette file created by the user and used for results display (coverage).
*.BLG: Cartographic data file containing the building layer raster; 8-bit raster file coded on 1 Byte.
Compressed format of that layer is *.RBL. Multimap format of that layer is *.MBL.
*.DAM: Data file containing one record of a Microwave link database.
*.MB0: File containing the catalogue of one Microwave link technical database
*.DAT: Data file containing one record of a Station database.
*.DS0: File containing the catalogue of a Station database.
*.SU1: File containing the catalogue of a Subscriber database.
*.SUBx: File containing a Subscriber database (all records).
*.DFB: File containing one record of a Direction Finders (DF) bearing database.
*.SFB: File containing the catalogue of a DF database.
*.EWH: File containing one record of the Localization database (data sent using an external message system
of RS 232-C type).
*.SPV: Antenna vertical pattern.
*.SPH: Antenna horizontal pattern.
*.COV: File containing a coverage calculated during frequencies assignment.
*.NFD: Net Filter Discrimination (NFD) file, contains Interference Rejection Factor (IRF) matrix

*.TRX: File containing technical parameters of one station; created by the user by clicking ‘Save’ button
found in the ‘Tx/Rx parameters’ dialogue box of one station.

*.MWPx: File containing technical parameters of one microwave link; created by the user by clicking ‘Save’
button found in the ‘Microwave link parameters’ dialogue box
HTZtables.mdb: Model of Microsoft Access™ database containing all formatted fields required for
import/export of stations, subscribers, and microwave links (current version to be used).
Allbases.inf: File storing information on the location of internal databases.

Each of the following files contains one record of “other” type database (see ‘Database -> Library menu):

*.EQT: Tx/Rx parameter database.

*.MWE: Equipment.
*.ANTx: Antenna.
*.FDR: Feeders and cables.
*.PL1: Frequency plan.
*.FMZ: Frequencies band.
*.GPF: Frequencies group.
*.SIT : Site.
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 *.USR : User.
*.COX: Connector.
*.MUX : Multiplexer.

Temporary Files:
Temporary files are created during the use of HTZ communications. By default, the system stores these files
in C:\Users\User name\AppData\Local\HTZc. It can be modified from ’File → Temporary folder’ menu.
Temporary files are: *.II1, *.II2, ATDITMP.TMP, VEC1000.bin, Jtemp… .csv .

11.6. ONLINE DOCUMENTATION

ATDI provides online documentation for HTZ communications in PDF format as a technical support
resource, available through:

- <F1> key in any dialog box, it opens contextual help PDF document.
- <F1> key or Menu ? → Help, it opens this Getting Started PDF document.
- User CRM account. Technical documents and quick reference guides are available as an online
resource, depending on the specialized subject. They can be easily accessed and downloaded from
the Doc Center tab in the user CRM account. A search function is also available to narrow down
the list of documents relevant to a particular subject area.

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 Figure 111 – Online Documentation – Doc Center

11.7. GRID CODES AND DATUM LIST

The full list of grid codes and datum is listed in the following document:
http://data.atdi-group.com/doc/GEOCONV-GRID%20and%20DATUM%20LIST.pdf.

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