An overview of multigigabit wireless through millimeter wave technology: Potentials and technical challenges

Abstract

This paper presents an overview of 60 GHz technology and its potentials to provide next generation multigigabit wireless communications systems. We begin by reviewing the state-of-art of the 60 GHz radio. Then, the current status of worldwide regulatory efforts and standardization activities for 60 GHz band is summarized. As a result of the worldwide unlicensed 60 GHz band allocation, a number of key applications can be identified using millimeter-wave technology. Despite of its huge potentials to achieve multigigabit wireless communications, 60 GHz radio presents a series of technical challenges that needs to be resolved before its full deployment. Specifically, we will focus on the link budget analysis from the 60 GHz radio propagation standpoint and highlight the roles of antennas in establishing a reliable 60 GHz radio.