OPTIMIZATION OF MOBILE ANTENNA LOCATION USING GEOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION SYSTEMS TECHNIQUES IN NANDI COUNTY, KENYA

Abstract

This study was conducted to optimize the location of mobile antennas to improve the strength of signal in Nandi County. Nandi County has been covered with dead zones in most areas for a long time despite the fact that the area has seven Base Transceiver Stations (BTS) located in various places. Poor network communication has been a challenge to many people in the area. Factors considered in optimizing BTS in the areas were; high altitude, visibility and high population. The study was conducted through ground truthing. The datasets that were involved are; development of a (Digital Elevation Model) DEM, land cover patterns, determination of dead zones using GPS in field survey and GIS analysis, examination of the characteristics of dead zones and optimisation of BTS location. The data was collected between the months of November 2009 – January 2010. To solve the problem, the study used GIS and GPS techniques. The data collected from the field was analysed using GIS techniques to give final products which were interpreted. The important variable controlled throughout the study was intervisibility in making visibility maps. The study came up with nineteen suitable locations at several areas mostly in the south east part of the study area where mobile antennas could be placed in any of the locations or a few of them to reduce the dead zones and improve mobile signal transceiver for efficient communication. The results of this study are the basis for other studies that can be done and used by service providers in making use of GIS techniques to come up with the most suitable areas for placement of BTS. This study will lead to improved infrastructure, communication and technology and meet millennium development goals by year 2015 in