WIRELESS COMMUNICATION: 5G AND 6G

Description

1.1  OVERVIEW OF WIRELESS COMMUNICATION

What Is Wireless Communication?

In essence, wireless communication refers to telecommunication that operates without wires, utilizing electromagnetic waves specifically radio waves as well as magnetic and electric fields. In contrast, optical communication transmits information through light without the need for cables. Among the numerous wireless communication techniques, radio wave-based systems facilitate long-range communication over distances of kilometers or greater while supporting substantial data transmission. Consequently, radio waves are integral to most wireless communication frameworks. This discussion will concentrate primarily on the role of radio waves.

Wireless communication systems employing radio waves are designed to utilize space as their transmission medium (or communication channel), transmitting data in the form of signals from transmitters to receivers via these radio waves (see Fig. 1).

Examples of Wireless Communication Applications

Table 1 provides an overview of the major categories of wireless communication that utilize radio waves for data transmission, along with the common applications associated with each category. Wireless communication spans numerous sectors, demonstrating a broad spectrum of applications and types.

It is important to highlight that advancements in wireless communication have expanded beyond these established categories in recent years. For instance, several nations have initiated satellite mobile communication services, which integrate satellite technology into mobile communications, allowing smartphones to connect directly to satellites.

Table 1: Types of Wireless Communication and Their Uses Types of Wireless Communication

Mobile Communication Aviation Communication Satellite Communication Maritime Communication Broadcast Communication

Fixed Communication (Microwave) Wireless Network Communication

Basic Configuration and Components of Wireless Communication Systems

The fundamental configuration model for wireless (as well as wired) communication systems is illustrated in Figure 2. The individual components of this model are detailed in Table 2. Additionally, Figure 1 from the section ―1. What Is Wireless Communication?‖ provides a more straightforward depiction of this basic framework.

The data that travels along a transmission medium is termed a ―signal.‖ Conversely, we identify the extraneous elements that hinder these signals and complicate the delivery of desired information to the intended recipient as ―noise.‖ In practical applications, noise can arise in both transmitters and receivers, leading to interference with device functionality and other complications. Thus, a communication system that operates without the influence of such noise can be described as an ideal communication system.

Method  of  Wireless  Communication:  Modulation  and  Demodulation Figure 3 illustrates a configuration that outlines the essential functions of modulation and demodulation within a wireless communication system, which is derived from the fundamental model presented in Figure 2.

Attempting to transmit data directly as radio waves is ineffective for long-distance communication. To facilitate this, wireless communication employs a process known as ―modulation,‖ which transforms data into suitable signals at the transmitter, allowing for extended transmission distances. Conversely, at the receiver, a process called ―demodulation‖ is necessary to revert the modulated signals back to their original data form.

Table 3 provides an overview of common modulation technologies along with examples of their applications. While some terminology may be unfamiliar, it is important to recognize these modulation technologies as integral components of our modern lifestyle infrastructure, including mobile phones and radio and television broadcasts. Further details will be provided on this topic in a subsequent page.