Experimental evaluation of line-of-sight multiple input multiple output (MIMO) transmission for sub-6 GHz carrier frequencies

Abstract

Abstract For the next generation wireless networks, backhaul links with data rates of several Gbit/s are required. Line-of-Sight-MIMO with optimally arranged antennas can exploit the full multiplexing gain of orthogonal MIMO streams to achieve high throughput, as shown in recent works utilizing the 60 GHz mm wave band. In contrast, conventional MIMO systems operating at sub-6 GHz carrier frequencies, as utilized in modern WLAN networks, rely on rich scattering channels to enable reliable transmissions. In this work, we explore the feasibility of applying the LoS-MIMO concept to wireless single-carrier links operating at sub-6 GHz frequencies. For this, we investigate the sub-6 GHz LoS-MIMO channel in a 4 × 4 MIMO configuration by performing measurements in an anechoic chamber and an outdoor backhaul-like environment. In addition, different adaptive equalizers are evaluated. The results show, that the LoS-MIMO concept holds for sub-6 GHz frequencies both in pure LoS and in outdoor environments. It provides high multiplexing gain; however, the multipath propagation limits the potential performance of the equalizers in terms of achievable BER.