ELAA Channel Characterization with Parameter Estimation Based on a Generalized Array Manifold Model

Abstract

The ELAA and millimeter-wave systems have become key techniques for obtaining higher frequency spectrum efficiency in 6G communication systems. It is necessary to determine appropriate statistical models to describe the channel characteristics for the ELAA, such as spatial non-stationarity, dispersion in angular domain, and spatial consistency. Thus, a signal model based on the GAM that describes the dispersion in direction using the definition of the SDS is proposed in this work. An estimator for the parameters of the GAM model, namely GAM-SAGE, is also designed. Moreover, a method to obtain a stochastic SBCM that is capable of reproducing the spatial consistency is proposed. The method is then used to establish measurement-based models for LoS and NLoS scenarios using a 40×40 receiver (Rx) planar antenna array at a carrier frequency of 40 GHz. The results demonstrate that the SBCM is capable of achieving spatially consistent results and outperforms the SP models in completely characterizing the ELAA channels at millimeter-wave bands, which are fundamental for the design of 6G.