Fast in-band position-aided beam selection in millimeter-wave MIMO

Abstract

Millimeter-wave (mm-wave) and massive multiple-input-multiple-output technologies appear as key enablers in future emerging wireless communication systems. Propagation in mm-wave communications is well described by geometric channel models, where a clear relation between communication and positioning arises. On one hand, initial access, a procedure that precedes high data rate transmission and consists of beam selection and alignment between two devices, can benefit from position information. On the other hand, accurate positioning relies on high-quality communication links with proper beam alignment. This work analyzes the interplay between communication and positioning, proposes a new in-band position-aided beam selection protocol considering scenarios with line-of-sight and reflected paths, and possible beam alignment errors. Simulation results show significant reductions in latency with respect to standard beam selection protocols.