IEEE 802.15.3d: First Standardization Efforts for Sub-Terahertz Band Communications towards 6G

TL;DR

This paper introduces the IEEE 802.15.3d standard for sub-terahertz wireless communications, detailing its design, applications, and initial performance, marking a step towards 6G networks with ultra-high data rates.

Contribution

It provides the first detailed overview of the IEEE 802.15.3d standard, including design principles, performance evaluation, and its role in advancing 6G THz communication technologies.

Findings

Achieved data rates of 100 Gbit/s and higher.

Performance surpasses 5G characteristics, enabling 6G development.

Outlines future standardization and regulatory efforts.

Abstract

With the ratification of the IEEE 802.15.3d amendment to the 802.15.3, a first step has been made to standardize consumer wireless communications in the sub-THz frequency band. The IEEE 802.15.3d offers switched point-to-point connectivity with the data rates of 100\,Gbit/s and higher at distances ranging from tens of centimeters up to a few hundred meters. In this article, we provide a detailed introduction to the IEEE 802.15.3d and the key design principles beyond the developed standard. We particularly describe the target applications and usage scenarios, as well as the specifics of the IEEE 802.15.3d physical and medium access layers. Later, we present the results of the initial performance evaluation of IEEE 802.15.3d wireless communications. The obtained first-order performance predictions show non-incremental benefits compared to the characteristics of the fifth-generation wireless systems, thus paving the way towards the six-generation (6G) THz networks. We conclude the article by outlining the further standardization and regulatory activities on wireless networking in the THz frequency band.