IBM, Ericsson make phased-array breakthrough
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IBM and Ericsson have announced a joint R&D breakthrough that the vendors say could accelerate the launch of 5G networks.
The companies have created a contact silicon-based millimeterWave (mmWave) phased array integrated circuit operating at 28GHz within a phased array antenna module designed for use in future 5G base stations.
The development is a result of a more than two-year collaboration to research phased-array antenna technologies. This partnership was first announced in November 2014.
According to the companies, the prototype module has the potential to meet the size, weight, cost and performance standards that would be required for future 5G phased array deployments to be commercially viable.
The module measures around 2.8 inches by 2.8 inches, and consists of four monolithic integrated circuits and 64 dual-polarized antennas. It supports a beam-steering resolution of less than 1.4 degrees for high precision pointing towards users.
“There has been a lot of encouraging progress in 5G standardization last year including the beginning of live field trials,” Ericsson senior advisor for network products Thomas Noren said.
“Big efforts in research and development are key to this and our collaboration with IBM Research on phased array antennas can help operators to effectively deploy radio access infrastructure necessary to support a 5G future.”
Questions & Answers
Q.What is the key technical achievement announced by IBM and Ericsson?
What is the key technical achievement announced by IBM and Ericsson?
The companies have developed a contact silicon-based millimeterWave (mmWave) phased array integrated circuit that operates at 28GHz. This circuit is part of a phased array antenna module intended for 5G base stations.
Q.When did the collaboration between IBM and Ericsson begin for this research?
When did the collaboration between IBM and Ericsson begin for this research?
The partnership between IBM and Ericsson, which has led to this development, was first announced in November 2014. The research into phased-array antenna technologies has spanned more than two years.
Q.What are the physical specifications of the prototype module and its capabilities?
What are the physical specifications of the prototype module and its capabilities?
The prototype module measures approximately 2.8 inches by 2.8 inches. It incorporates four monolithic integrated circuits and 64 dual-polarized antennas, offering a beam-steering resolution of less than 1.4 degrees for precise user targeting.
Q.How do IBM and Ericsson believe this breakthrough will impact 5G deployment?
How do IBM and Ericsson believe this breakthrough will impact 5G deployment?
They believe this prototype module has the potential to meet the necessary size, weight, cost, and performance standards for future commercially viable 5G phased array deployments. It could help operators effectively deploy radio access infrastructure.
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