Space-Time-Coded DMA Hardware Realization at Higher mmWave Frequencies

Develop and demonstrate guided-wave-fed dynamic metasurface antennas that directly generate and radiate space-time-modulated signals, particularly at higher millimeter-wave frequencies.

Background

Space-time modulation is presented as a means of adding temporal degrees of freedom for harmonic beam control, information modulation, and integrated communication-and-sensing operation. Unlike externally illuminated reflective space-time metasurfaces, a space-time-coded DMA must interface directly with an RF transceiver and radiate the modulated signal from a guided-wave-fed programmable aperture.

The article states that this hardware realization remains immature, especially at higher millimeter-wave frequencies, where switching speed, control bandwidth, synchronization, parasitics, and spectral purity impose stringent constraints.

References

In contrast, the hardware realization of space-time-coded DMAs, in which a space-time-modulated signal can be generated and radiated directly from a guided-wave-fed programmable aperture, remains in its early stages of development, particularly in the higher mmWave bands.

— Dynamic Metasurface Antennas: From Programmable Microwave Hardware to Next-Generation Wireless Systems  (2609.29868 - Jabbar et al., 24 Sep 2026) in Section 'Emerging Applications and Research Trends', subsection 'Integrated Sensing and Communication'