Low complexity MIMO mmWave transceiver architectures for handheld devices

Important results from the project

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 long term 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.