5G base stations rely on phased arrays to steer signals and increase data rates. Beam steering circuits, however, consume power. Using waveguides could reduce energy consumption in base stations. Waveguides are physical structures that direct electromagnetic waves from one point to another, confining energy within specific boundaries to control propagation, direction, and mode. While waveguide…
What are 5G’s, the different types, and how are they used?
5G is much more than cell phones. IoT devices, medical devices, and industrial devices can connect to networks using technologies such as TDD, network slicing, and beamforming. 5G New Radio (NR) made its long-awaited commercial debut in late 2018. Offering significantly faster speeds and greater capacity compared to 4G Long Term Evolution (LTE), 5G NR…
How to select an IoT device antenna
When designing wireless connectivity into IoT devices, you have several options for antennas. You can design one right into a PCB, but several commercial options take the work out of designing your own.
6G could add sensing to cellular networks
Integrated communications and sensing at mmWave and sub-THz frequencies could add location detection that helps avoid accidents among pedestrians, bicycles, and vehicles.
Report models performance of reconfigurable intelligent surfaces
ETSI unveils a new Report developed by its Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces group. ETSI GR RIS-003 explores communication models that offer a trade-off between electromagnetic accuracy and simplicity for performance evaluation and optimization. It also analyses channel models that include path-loss and multipath propagation effects, as well as the impact of interference. The last part of…
5G NR chipset platform targets wireless broadband IoT
The Taurus product portfolio from Sequans Communications includes chipsets for chip-on-board designs, carrier-certified modules in various form factors, and module reference designs for customized modules. Much of the talk over wireless 5G for IoT being about low data rates. Not every application, however, can benefit from that. Some applications need higher data throughput. The Taurus…
EE World’s 2023 communications handbook is here
Our 2023 5G, Wired, & Wireless Handbook is now available in ebook form. Download your copy today. It started on a cold January day with an editorial call. A month later, the abstracts came in. After another month, the manuscripts came in. Then came the editing and some back-and-forth with the authors. Next, it was…
Identify, troubleshoot, and resolve PIM issues in wireless networks
5G brought passive intermodulation problems into the spotlight. Now it’s up to engineers and technicians to identify and mitigate signal degradation to minimize dropped calls and other issues. A loose connection; a metal roof; power lines. Even a rusty bolt. It’s estimated that mobile operators will spend $1.1 trillion on capital expenditure between 2020 and…
Reference design platform cuts 4G/5G radio design time
The ADRV904x-RD reference design from Analog Devices includes an 8T/8R transceiver and covers from RF to optical.
5G repeaters to debut at MWC 2023
In the days leading up to MWC, Airgain, a company that produces embedded components, external antennas, and integrated systems, announced Lighthouse smart repeaters. Airgain said that the repeaters can significantly reduce an operator’s capital expenses for extending range while enhancing 5G coverage and improving customer experience. The repeaters use two Wi-Fi radios, one dedicated to…