A PRACTICAL GUIDE TO SITE SELECTION FOR OMMUNICATION ANTENNAS AND THEIR SUPPORT STRUCTURES IN NIGERIA

Radio broadcasting and telecommunication transmitter stations should have their antennas properly positioned to make them capable of providing the required services. Suitable location of antenna structure will enhance signal clarity, wider coverage area and satisfactory reception of radiated signal. In most cases, engineering considerations in the determination of a station’s performance are treated analytically. However, it is important to know that the ability to serve large audience effectively and at the same time achieve wider signal coverage are greatly affected by the excellence of the transmitter location and its selection must be governed or influenced by experience with intangibles not subject to mathematical calculations. Field survey method was adopted by which information from the major radio and wireless Operators in the country was obtained. The paper therefore focuses on the various factors guiding the selection of suitable transmitter sites. It also presents a step-by-step guide and some important considerations to be taken into account from the planning to the site-aquisition stages. It recommends co-location of infrastructures which is an option not yet attractive to Sevrice Providers in Nigeria.