WiGig-based mmW mesh backhaul system promises cheap, fast data delivery

The system developed by the InterDigital Labs team includes imec’s 60GHz PHARA4 radio and phased array antenna with fast electrical beam steering in azimuth and elevation, and Peraso’s integrated PRS4000 WiGig baseband chip, operating at multi-Gb/s data rates. InterDigital’s software provides self-configuration and data routing for the multi-hop mesh backhaul.

The cost-effective architecture uses radio and baseband components targeted for high volume consumer electronics rather than proprietary architectures found in existing millimetre backhaul solutions. Multi-sector rapid beam steering enables many links to be supported with the same equipment for added cost-reduction, reliability, and simple network scaling with additional nodes. InterDigital calls the solution EdgeHaul, and aims to bring it to industry field trials in the second half of 2015.

“Millimetre wave is the only spectrum with enough available bandwidth to provide fibre-like data rates,” said Doug Castor, Principal Engineer, InterDigital Labs Group. “Cost-effective backhaul is a huge challenge for small cell deployments and our approach will enable network operators to rapidly deploy denser networks to meet growing capacity demands. We’re also excited about the opportunities to bring this platform to other markets such as residential broadband and 5G mmW access.”

“Our phased-array radio module is the result of more than 10 years of 60GHz R&D at imec. Initially developed for consumer-oriented WiGig markets, the technology is inherently cost-effective and scalable. It also features fully-integrated fast electronic beam-steering for easy installation, adjustment without human intervention, and reconfigurable mesh networking. The record energy efficiency of over 65% (16 antenna) finally means a lower number of antenna needed and a small, low-cost form factor,” added Charlotte Soens, Programme Manager, Millimetre Wave Technologies, imec.

“Peraso has been a significant contributor in the standardisation of 60GHz technology for many years. Our solutions are designed with a low-power and modular software MAC that enable customer value-add features and differentiation across a wide-variety of WiGig applications,” commented Ron Glibbery, CEO, Peraso. “We are extremely pleased with the continuing emergence of WiGig eco-system products and solutions utilising our chips as critical components.”

InterDigital, imec and Peraso are exhibiting at Mobile World Conference 2015 in Barcelona, from 2^nd to 5^th March in Hall 7. For more information, visit InterDigital at Stand 7A71, imec at Stand 7G71, and Peraso at Stand 7K50.