Figures of Merit for Active Antenna Enabled 5G Communication Networks

Abstract

Active antennas enable novel spatial techniques and beam-forming technology crucial to overcoming millimeter wave propagation challenges for fifth generation (5G) communication systems. At millimeter wave frequencies, a large effective aperture can be accommodated in a physically small area to overcome the high channel loss in these spectrum bands. The ability to dynamically steer and shape active antenna beam(s) to track users., overcome changing channel conditions, and focus the radiated energy into the desired direction provides additional degrees of flexibility and enables better performance for 5G radio system designs. To provide an over-the-air interface for previous generations of radio access networks, traditional architectures have relied upon separate, passive antennas connected by radio frequency cables to active radio transceivers. Active antenna systems, also known as phased array antenna systems, are an advancement from these previous radio access architectures. To implement an active antenna, a array of active radiating elements is utilized to combine passive antenna functions with active amplification and signal conditioning capabilities. Active antennas are an enabling technology for millimeter wave 5G communication systems that create a fundamental architecture shift requiring new Figures of Merit (FoMs). The 5G active antenna FoMs defined in this paper provide methods for antenna performance comparisons and wireless system evaluation.