College - Author 1
College of Engineering
Department - Author 1
Electrical Engineering Department
Degree Name - Author 1
BS in Electrical Engineering
College - Author 2
College of Engineering
Department - Author 2
Electrical Engineering Department
Degree - Author 2
BS in Electrical Engineering
Date
6-2026
Primary Advisor
Clay McKell, College of Engineering, Electrical Engineering Department
Abstract/Summary
Freight-train environments present significant challenges for wireless communication due to large metallic structures, varying cargo types, and changing antenna orientations that can degrade radio-frequency propagation. This project evaluated the performance of LoRa-based communication links intended for End-of-Train (EOT) and Head-of-Train (HOT) systems operating at 915 MHz. Field testing was conducted to characterize antenna performance using metrics including received signal strength indicator (RSSI), signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), and communication range. Experimental results showed that antenna polarization and directivity significantly affect communication performance in freight-train environments. Directional antennas provided improved signal strength when properly aligned but experienced performance degradation as antenna orientation changed. Across the test scenarios performed, the omnidirectional rubber-duck antenna provided the most consistent communication range and reliability. The results suggest that maintaining polarization alignment and selecting antenna characteristics suited to dynamic operating conditions are more important than maximizing antenna gain alone. While additional testing could further refine these findings, this work provides practical guidance for antenna selection in future LoRa-based freight-train communication systems.
URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/eesp/711