Demonstration of photonics-based D-band integrated localization and communication

Area of Science:

• Photonics and Wireless Communication
• 6G Network Technologies
• Integrated Sensing and Communication (ISAC)

Background:

• Terahertz spectrum offers high-speed communication and precise resolution.
• Integrated Sensing and Communication (ISAC) is crucial for future 6G wireless networks.
• Photonics-based systems are being explored for terahertz applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate a photonics-based D-band communication system for simultaneous high-resolution localization and high-speed wireless communication.
• To evaluate the feasibility of terahertz ISAC for 6G networks.
• To identify system limitations affecting resolution.

Main Methods:

• Development of a photonics-based D-band communication system.
• Simultaneous transmission of communication and sensing signals.
• Empirical testing to measure communication rate and localization accuracy.
• Analysis of error sources impacting resolution.

Main Results:

• Achieved a communication rate of 5 Gbps over 1.5 meters.
• Demonstrated simultaneous localization with millimeter-level (<4mm) range resolution.
• Identified quantization error and random drift as primary resolution-limiting factors.
• Eliminated errors caused by beam splitter thickness.

Conclusions:

• Terahertz ISAC is experimentally demonstrated as a viable technology for 6G networks.
• Photonics-based D-band systems can support integrated high-speed communication and localization.
• System restrictions like bandwidth and lens diameter must be considered for practical implementation.