Where, When, and How mmWave is Used in 5G and Beyon (1704.08131v1)

Abstract: Wireless engineers and business planners commonly raise the question on where, when, and how millimeter-wave (mmWave) will be used in 5G and beyond. Since the next generation network is not just a new radio access standard, but instead an integration of networks for vertical markets with diverse applications, answers to the question depend on scenarios and use cases to be deployed. This paper gives four 5G mmWave deployment examples and describes in chronological order the scenarios and use cases of their probable deployment, including expected system architectures and hardware prototypes. The paper starts with 28 GHz outdoor backhauling for fixed wireless access and moving hotspots, which will be demonstrated at the PyeongChang winter Olympic games in 2018. The second deployment example is a 60 GHz unlicensed indoor access system at the Tokyo-Narita airport, which is combined with Mobile Edge Computing (MEC) to enable ultra-high speed content download with low latency. The third example is mmWave mesh network to be used as a micro Radio Access Network ({\mu}-RAN), for cost-effective backhauling of small-cell Base Stations (BSs) in dense urban scenarios. The last example is mmWave based Vehicular-to-Vehicular (V2V) and Vehicular-to-Everything (V2X) communications system, which enables automated driving by exchanging High Definition (HD) dynamic map information between cars and Roadside Units (RSUs). For 5G and beyond, mmWave and MEC will play important roles for a diverse set of applications that require both ultra-high data rate and low latency communications.

• The paper examines four key mmWave deployment scenarios: outdoor backhaul (28 GHz), indoor access (60 GHz), urban mesh networks, and V2X communications.
• It highlights the utility of 28 GHz for non-line-of-sight backhaul and cellular coverage and 60 GHz for high-speed indoor access leveraging existing standards.
• The study details how mmWave mesh networks using SDN optimize urban network density and capacity and its crucial role for high data rate, low latency V2X for automated driving.

Overview of Millimeter-Wave Deployment in 5G and Beyond

The paper "Where, When, and How mm Wave is Used in 5G and Beyond" provides an in-depth examination of the utilization of millimeter-wave (mmWave) frequencies within 5G networks and beyond. This paper discusses four distinct deployment scenarios of mmWave technology, illustrating its diverse applications and the strategic integration with Mobile Edge Computing (MEC) for optimized performance in terms of data rate and latency.

The researchers first address the use of the 28 GHz frequency for outdoor backhauls within fixed wireless access frameworks and mobile hotspots. Demonstrations such as those planned for the 2018 PyeongChang Winter Olympics serve as early examples of utilizing mmWave at these frequencies. The second deployment scenario involves a 60 GHz unlicensed indoor access system at Tokyo-Narita Airport, leveraging MEC for rapid content downloads. These initial use cases emphasize the capacity of mmWave technology to support high-speed connections in diverse environments.

A third scenario illustrates the employment of a mmWave mesh network as a micro Radio Access Network (u-RAN). This approach is particularly effective for dense urban settings, providing efficient backhauling solutions for small-cell base stations (BSs). Through the utilization of software-defined networking (SDN) for dynamic traffic management, this model addresses issues of network capital and operational expenditures.

Finally, the paper explores the development of V2V and V2X communications utilizing mmWave frequencies, crucial for enabling automated driving. This includes the exchange of high-definition dynamic map data, ensuring improved situational awareness and safety for automated systems. The use of mmWave in V2X presents substantial requirements for high data rates and minimal latency, showcasing its potential in facilitating next-generation transport solutions.

Key Results and Claims

1. 28 GHz Applications: The 28 GHz band, although initially set aside for satellite communication, finds a prominent role in 5G backhauling networks. This paper posits that mmWave technology in this band can support efficient non-line-of-sight communications and cellular coverage.
2. 60 GHz Indoor Systems: The investigation into 60 GHz systems reveals the role of tri-band chipsets in providing unlicensed access, significantly enhancing short-range communications with highly directional antennas. The paper anticipates quick market entry for these technologies due to existing foundational standards like IEEE802.11ad.
3. Mesh Networking and SDN Integration: This paper outlines how mesh networks aided by mmWave can effectively manage urban network densities. Integration of SDN facilitates adaptive path creation and energy management, reducing operational costs.
4. V2X for Automated Driving: High data rate and low latency requirements for automated driving systems make mmWave an attractive option. The paper discusses the feasibility and necessary infrastructure to incorporate mmWave into intelligent transportation systems, marking a key path forward for autonomous technology.

Implications and Future Directions

The implications of this paper are twofold—practical and theoretical. Practically, it demonstrates how mmWave technologies can effectively address the demanding requirements of next-generation network applications across various environments including public transport systems and dense urban scenarios. The introduction of MEC with mmWave expands the capability of these networks to meet speed and latency expectations.

Theoretically, this work heavily impacts the ongoing research in the field of wireless communications, particularly as it relates to the paper of dense networks and integration of diverse frequency bands. As 5G networks continue to evolve, the findings here suggest an increasing reliance on mmWave for high-speed, reliable communication, necessitating further exploration into spectrum regulation, beamforming technologies, and cross-layer integration techniques.

In conclusion, the deployment examples and research directions outlined in this paper underscore the significant role mmWave frequencies will play in the future of wireless communication, particularly in facilitating efficient and broad-spectrum applications like automated driving and ubiquitous high-speed internet access. Future developments in these areas will likely continue to build on the framework and findings presented in this paper, as 5G and beyond technologies advance.