Millimeter waves: Technological component for next-generation mobile networks

Abstract

The significantly increasing demands for higher data rates, for multimedia applications like high-definition video, 3-D online games, etc., can be satisfied by the use of millimeter-wave (mmWave) technology for next-generation mobile networks (NGMN). This chapter gives an insight to the research work carried out till date, in the field of usage of mmWaves for mobile cellular networks. The study done by researchers over the past few years to understand the various characteristics of the mmWaves, so as to enable the channel modeling, has been discussed here. Use of multiple antenna technology for achieving higher data rates at mmWave frequencies has been noted. Focus has been made on contributions for standardization of various mmWave channel models till date in this field, taking into consideration the challenges which will be faced in practical deployment of networks operating at these frequencies. Frequency bands identified for the operation of networks at mmWave frequencies have been listed. Methods proposed for achieving higher energy efficiency and optimization of mmWave networks have been highlighted. The concept of cognitive radio networks (CRNs) for bandwidth-craving multimedia applications of future generations has been looked upon. The open research areas, for enhancing the performance of next-generation mobile networks (NGMN) using mmWave technology, have been enumerated so as to enable prospective researchers to work upon them. This will definitely assist in accelerating the work of standardization of 5G requirements by 3GPP and thereby the formulation of later releases.