IEEE 291-1969

IEEE 291-1969 is a technical standard report that addresses measuring field strength in radio wave propagation, with clear relevance to electromagnetic and communications engineering. It focuses on how radio-wave field measurements are approached so results can be interpreted more consistently across components, circuits, devices, and systems. For engineers and technical reviewers, this document helps support more reliable propagation assessments, comparison of measurements, and better-informed design or testing work in radio and related electromagnetic applications.

About IEEE 291-1969

IEEE 291-1969 provides guidance centered on the measurement of field strength in radio wave propagation, a topic that sits at the intersection of fields, waves, and electromagnetics with communication system practice. As a standards report, it is best understood as a reference for technical method and measurement interpretation rather than a product specification. IEEE 291-1969 can help users align field-strength observations with a more consistent engineering framework, which is especially useful when comparing results from different setups or test conditions.

Where is IEEE 291-1969 used?

This standard is most relevant in radio propagation studies, antenna and receiver evaluation, and other measurement workflows where field strength must be characterized in a controlled way. It may be used by engineers working with broadcast links, communication equipment, or laboratory and field test setups that depend on electromagnetic measurements. IEEE 291-1969 is also useful when documenting test methods for systems where signal coverage, propagation behavior, or received field intensity needs to be assessed with repeatable procedures.

Importance in practice

In practice, IEEE 291-1969 supports consistency in field-strength measurement and reduces ambiguity when results are compared across projects, instruments, or sites. That matters for compliance work, engineering validation, and procurement decisions where measurement method can affect acceptance or performance claims. By grounding radio-wave field-strength assessment in a defined technical approach, IEEE 291-1969 helps lower the risk of misinterpretation and improves confidence in propagation-related testing and analysis.

• Field-strength measurement guidance
• Radio wave propagation context
• Electromagnetic and communications applications
• Testing and result comparison
• Superseded IEEE standard