Investigation of Signal Strength-Level Generated by Orient 94.4 FM Transmitter in Imo State, Nigeria

The study investigates the variation of signal strength generated by the 4.3 kW Frequency Modulation (FM) station of the Imo State Broadcasting Corporation (Orient 94.4FM), Owerri, Nigeria, within some selected routes in Imo State. The signal strength meter (SSM) used for this investigation was designed and constructed. The signal strength was measured at a distance of 5 km intervals field of view from the transmitters antenna and in places within the selected pathways, till the signal faded totally. A travel distance application which uses global positioning receiver system (GPRS) was used to measure the distances of the study locations from the broadcasting station. The data gotten was plotted graphically to ascertain the difference in signal strength with distance along the routes, where the study was carried out. The results obtained from this study revealed that the strength of signal was stronger in locations close to and in the same direction with the antenna but was relatively weak at locations antipodal to the antenna. The overall results show that distance from the transmission is a major parameter to be contemplated on for better and effective FM propagation and reception. Other factors that affect the signal strength from the results of this study are time of broadcasting, temperature, height and direction of the receiving antenna and interference from nearby FM stations. It was recommended that a unidirectional antenna be acquired to enhance better transmission of the signal along the different routes of study.