Millimeter Wave Mobile Ad Hoc Networks
Abstract
Millimeter wave (mmWave) communication will use high-bandwidth and directional antenna arrays to achieve truly next-generation data rates. While the theoretical bit rate is incredible, which can allow the sharing of high-resolution video in a tactical military network or file sharing in a peer-to-peer network, several engineering hurdles remain. In previous generations, interference of nearby users limited performance of ad hoc networks. The properties of mmWave communication, however, offer opportunities to exploit the reduced interference created by directional antennas and building blockage. While mmWave systems provide an enormous benefit in their bandwidth, there are several constraints that are not present in microwave systems. First, the mostly digital MIMO implementations found at microwave frequencies are unlikely; high-speed, high-bandwidth analog-digital converters require too much power to include many in a mobile device. As a result, mmWave systems are more likely to use analog beamforming, or a hybrid approach. Second, mmWave propagation is much more sensitive to blockages than lower frequency signals. While non-line-of-sight communication is possible, analysis should be aware of LOS / NLOS regimes as the path-loss exponent can be vastly different. Third, mmWave devices will have dozens, perhaps hundred of antennas to overcome the path-loss. Historically, path losshas been viewed as a limiting factor for employing mmWave wireless systems; by fabricatingmany mmWave antennas in the same physical size of a single microwave antenna, the path-loss difference can be eliminated. These characteristics of mmWave mean that direct application of mmWave to MANETs without careful investigation is unwise.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 19, 2019
- Accession Number
- AD1070728
Entities
People
- Andrew Thornburg
- Robert Jr W. Heath
- Talha Ahmed Khan
Organizations
- University of Texas at Austin