Abstract: A method for automatically planning and managing the performance of a communications network comprising a propagation forecasting step where propagation forrecast algorithms form a propagation forecast from weather inputs and a traffic forecasting step where traffic forecast algorithms form a traffic forecast from traffic data inputs and a network planning step where planning algorithms display an automated network model. During a forecast updating step, meteorological measurements and radio traffic measurements are continuously provided, resulting in adjusted propagation and traffic forecasts, which are then followed by a network realignment step to adjust the network. During a model comparison step, an artificial intelligence program continuously compares the model, the model adjustments, the realigned network and the network performance parameters with each other. A coefficient adjustment step adjusts the propagation, traffic and planning algorithms.

Abstract: A method of automatically determining the reliability of any LOS radio link given certain parameters. Specifically, this method allows a communications network operator to specify and determine the path reliability (PR) for each backbone and extension link in a communications network for a given operating frequency, path length and climatic factor. For each link, the fade margin required (RFM) for a desired path reliability (PRD) is calculated. Then, the actual fade margin of the selected link is calculated using known radio parameters. Preferably, these known radio parameters are stored in a database to facilitate access to this information. Then, the corresponding value of the actual path reliability for the link is calculated using modifications of known statistical models which take into account climatic and geographic factors.