Low complexity MIMO mmWave transceiver architectures for handheld devices

Purpose and goal:

The project aims to develop low-complexity multi-antenna radio architectures for the millimeter-wave (mmWave) spectrum for smartphones. The project is a collaboration between BeammWave AB, KTH, and Lund University and consists of two parts: 1. Development of beamforming algorithms implemented in an FPGA demonstrator, optimized for mobile devices with their signal processing constraints. 2.

Validation of BeammWave´s second generation of mmWave chips, including testing and verification of various integrated antenna and packaging solutions. Expected results and effects:

At theoretcal level, we know know what type of channel information can be compressed without reducing performance. Two articles has been published. BeammWave´s mmWave chip has been validated and combined with various antenna elements.

The package for the final product has been co-designed and characterized over the relevant frequency bands. Despite initial delays, we have implemented the algorithms on the FPGA demonstrator. During the summer, a demonstration has been conducted, successfully showcasing our digital beamforming concept for both reception and transmission.

Approach and implementation: The project was divided into four work packages (WP): System Design: Established system requirements and for processors and digital interfaces. Validation, Antenna, and Package Design: Developed and validated package solutions for mmWave chips and antennas. Algorithm Development: Developed and optimized beamforming algorithms.

FPGA Implementation and Demonstration: Implemented the algorithms on an FPGA platform.

The collaboration between the WPs has worked well, and as mentioned above, we successfully demonstrated our digital beamforming during the summer.