Transition technologies towards 6G networks

Abstract

The sixth generation (6G) mobile systems will create new markets, services, and industries making possible a plethora of new opportunities and solutions. Commercially successful rollouts will involve scaling enabling technologies, such as cloud radio access networks, virtualization, and artificial intelligence. This paper addresses the principal technologies in the transition towards next generation mobile networks. The convergence of 6G key-performance indicators along with evaluation methodologies and use cases are also addressed. Free-space optics, Terahertz systems, photonic integrated circuits, softwarization, massive multiple-input multiple-output signaling, and multi-core fibers, are among the technologies identified and discussed. Finally, some of these technologies are showcased in an experimental demonstration of a mobile fronthaul system based on millimeter 5G NR OFDM signaling compliant with 3GPP Rel. 15. The signals are generated by a bespoke 5G baseband unit and transmitted through both a 10 km prototype multi-core fiber and 4 m wireless V-band link using a pair of directional 60 GHz antennas with 10° beamwidth. Results shown that the 5G and beyond fronthaul system can successfully transmit signals with both wide bandwidth (up to 800 MHz) and fully centralized signal processing. As a result, this system can support large capacity and accommodate several simultaneous users as a key candidate for next generation mobile networks. Thus, these technologies will be needed for fully integrated, heterogeneous solutions to benefit from hardware commoditization and softwarization. They will ensure the ultimate user experience, while also anticipating the quality-of-service demands that future applications and services will put on 6G networks.

The Race for Future Wireless Internet and Socio-Economic Aspects

“…Both the V-band region (≈ 60 GHz) and K/Ka-band (≈ 24.25 to 27.50 GHz) can be leveraged for multiple applications ranging from hot-spot area to wide-area coverage. Raddo et al [6] mentioned that each of these frequency bands has some advantages and disadvantages over each other. K/Ka-band can provide a larger reach than the V-band but its spectrum availability is not sufficient.…”

Initial Access & Beam Alignment for mmWave and Terahertz Communications

“…The ongoing expansion of AP equipment helps to provide successful communication services and increase the quality of the video (e.g., AR/VR services, HD holographic video conferences, ultra-high-resolution video formats, the download of HD videos, etc.) [110].…”

A Free Space Optic/Optical Wireless Communication: A Survey

“…These systems can manage large amounts of data and several users at once, making them a strong competitor for the next cellular operators. According to the findings, 5G and beyond Fronthaul technology can transfer signals with both broadband (up to 800MHz) and entirely centralized signal processing [55].…”