Rohde & Schwarz presents photonics-based ultra-stable tunable THz system for 6G at EuMW 2024

With the proof-of-concept for a system for 6G wi-fi knowledge transmission based mostly on a photonic THz communications hyperlink, Rohde & Schwarz is showcasing its contribution to state-of-the-art analysis for subsequent era wi-fi applied sciences at European Microwave Week in Paris. The ultra-stable, tunable THz system, developed throughout the 6G-ADLANTIK undertaking, relies on frequency comb expertise and allows provider frequencies properly past 500 GHz.

On the trail to 6G, it is very important create terahertz (THz) transmission sources that supply excessive sign high quality, and that cowl as large a frequency vary as attainable. Combining optical applied sciences with electronics is one attainable solution to obtain this sooner or later. At EuMW 2024 in Paris, Rohde & Schwarz is showcasing the corporate’s contribution to state-of-the-art THz analysis throughout the 6G-ADLANTIK undertaking. This undertaking focuses on creating parts for the THz frequency vary based mostly on photonic and digital integration. Such THz parts, but to be developed, can then be used for revolutionary measurements and sooner knowledge transfers. These parts will discover purposes not solely in 6G communications but in addition in sensing and imaging. Funded by the Federal Ministry of Schooling and Analysis of Germany (BMBF) and coordinated by Rohde & Schwarz, 6G-ADLANTIK has introduced collectively the companions TOPTICA Photonics AG, Fraunhofer-Institut HHI, Microwave Photonics GmbH, Technical College Berlin, and Spinner GmbH.

The proof-of-concept reveals an ultra-stable, tunable THz system for 6G wi-fi knowledge transmission based mostly on a photonic THz mixer which allows the era of THz indicators based mostly on frequency comb expertise. On this strategy, a photodiode effectively converts an optical beat sign derived from lasers with barely totally different optical frequencies into {an electrical} sign by means of a photomixing course of. The antenna construction surrounding the photomixer interprets the oscillating photocurrent right into a THz wave. The ensuing indicators could be modulated and demodulated for 6G wi-fi communications and could be tuned simply over a large frequency vary. The offered system additionally could be prolonged for element characterization with coherently obtained THz indicators. A THz waveguide structure simulation and design, in addition to the event of ultra-low section noise photonic reference oscillators, are additionally a part of the scope of labor for this undertaking.

The ultra-low section noise of the system is enabled by a comb-locked optical frequency synthesizer (OFS) within the TOPTICA laser engine. Excessive-end devices from Rohde & Schwarz are a part of the setup: The R&S SFI100A wideband IF vector sign generator creates the baseband indicators for the optical modulator with a pattern charge of 16 GS/s. The R&S SMA100B RF and microwave sign generator generates a secure reference clock sign for the TOPTICA OFS system. The R&S RTP oscilloscope samples the baseband sign after the photoconductive steady wave (cw) THz receiver (Rx) at a pattern charge of 40 GS/s for additional processing and demodulation of the 300 GHz provider frequency sign, which will probably be proven at EuMW 2024.

6G will allow new utility situations in trade, medical expertise and on a regular basis life. Functions just like the metaverse and prolonged actuality (XR) will result in new necessities for latency and knowledge transmission charges that aren’t met by present communications methods. Though the ITU World Radio Convention 2023 (WRC23) recognized for additional research new frequency bands within the FR3 spectrum (7.125 – 24 GHz) for the primary business 6G networks to be launched in 2030, the sub-THz frequency band as much as 300 GHz will finally be indispensable to understand the total potential of digital actuality (VR), augmented actuality (AR), and combined actuality (MR) purposes.

Rohde & Schwarz reveals its proof-of-concept of a THz system for 6G based mostly on photonics together with its large portfolio of RF and microwave check options on the European Microwave Week in Paris at sales space 401L in Paris Expo Porte de Versailles from September 24 to 26, 2024.

As well as, Rohde & Schwarz co-hosts a full-day workshop on the European Microwave Convention (EuMC) on September 22, 2024 titled Photonic Applied sciences for Radio Frequency Functions, protecting totally different features comparable to maturity, efficiency and prices of photonic RF applied sciences and their potential to compete with current options.

For additional info on check and measurement options from Rohde & Schwarz for 6G analysis and THz communications, go to

www.rohdeschwarz.com