WiGig / WiHD

Technology Overview

60 GHz transmission technology is a fairly new wireless communications concept that aims to exploit the 7 GHz of bandwidth available in the 60 GHz unlicensed band. Particular characteristics of this technology have generated special interest within the industry. The main advantages of this high-frequency-range technology are that it enables high data rates and short-range communication applications such as data transfer and uncompressed audio and video (A/V) transmissions. Data rates beyond 1 Gbit/s at up to 10 meters are feasible.

These high data rates can be achieved because of the continuous spectrum and a less power-restricted bandwidth available in the 60 GHz band. Moreover, high path loss enables a larger frequency reuse factor per indoor environment. In addition, the millimeter wavelengths make it possible to have very small radios with multiple antennas solutions, enabling beamforming and beam steering, which enhances the channel capacity and also supports NLOS communications.

Standardization

Several standardization working groups are currently working on specifications in the 60 GHz unlicensed band. Three standards have already been published: ECMA-387 focuses on a high-rate wireless personal area network (WPAN), and IEEE 802.15.3c defines a mmWave approach to the existing IEEE 802.15.3 WPAN standard. WirelessHD, which is based upon IEEE 802.15.3c, targets the wireless video area network (WVAN), and commercial consumer products are already available.

The recently created Wireless Gigabit Alliance (WiGig) is also actively working on a new specification based on the 60 GHz technology. A first version was finalized at the end of 2009. WiGig is now working together with the IEEE 802.11ad group to create an amendment to the well-known IEEE 802.11 WLAN specification in order to enable WLAN operation in the 60 GHz band. Their target is to finalize this standard in 2012.

Rohde & Schwarz Test Solutions

Rohde & Schwarz offers a unique and comprehensive portfolio of test solutions featuring a wide frequency range up to 67 GHz at one single coaxial input. This makes these test solutions highly suited for the 60 GHz band technology.

The unique portfolio includes the R&S®FSU67 spectrum analyzer, which is the first spectrum analyzer with a direct frequency range from 20 Hz to 67 GHz and fundamental mixing. Measurements up to 67 GHz – in overrange up to 70 GHz – are possible without using complex setups with external harmonic mixers. Thus, the R&S^®FSU67 offers simplified test setups with just one connection, an improved level measurement uncertainty and an unambiguous frequency indication without the image response and multiple responses known from external harmonic mixers.

The R&S®ZVA67 vector network analyzer is particularly suited for manufacturers of RF devices due to its ability to directly measure frequencies up to 67 GHz with an overrange up to 70 GHz. The R&S^®ZVA67 is the first and so far only four-port vector network analyzer with four signal sources up to 67 GHz for measuring four-port or balanced devices. A unique feature is that its four sources can be used independently, which is important for intermodulation tests and system applications. The R&S®ZVA80/110 vector network analyzers further extend the frequency range. They offer a continuous sweep from 10 MHz to 80 GHz and 110 GHz respectively, which is essential for on-wafer device characterization.

The frequency ranges of the spectrum and vector network analyzers can easily be extended by adding high-performance harmonic mixers or millimeter-wave converters. The external R&S®FS-Z60/-Z75/-Z90/-Z110 Harmonic Mixers from Rohde & Schwarz enable measurements of frequencies up to 110 GHz. The frequency-dependent conversion loss is calibrated over the entire frequency range for accurate and calibrated measurements. The mixers are of a balanced design, so there is no adjustment of bias current needed, a necessary feature for automated measurements. In addition, the spectrum analyzers also support 3rd party harmonic mixers up to 1 THz.

The R&S®ZVA-Zxx millimeter-wave converters can further extend the frequency range of the network analyzers up to 500 GHz.

The R&S®NRP-Z57 thermal power sensor deliver accurate and continuous average power measurements in a frequency range from DC up to 67 GHz.

The R&S®SMZ75/90/110 frequency multiplier converts signals created by Rohde & Schwarz signal generators to frequency ranges from 50 GHz up to 110 GHz, providing both easy handling and precise, adjustable output levels. Optional attenuators are installed in the same housing.

The R&S®SMF100A microwave signal generator automatically detects, integrates and fully controls the R&S^®SMZ via USB, operating like a single unit. The wanted frequency and the target level at the R&S^®SMZ output can be directly entered on the R&S^®SMF100A. Compared with conventional setups, this combination significantly simplifies setup and operation. Also, there is no need for additional calibration, which is particularly important for measurements at different frequencies.