Full-stack Comparison of Channel Models for Networks Above 100 GHz in an Indoor Scenario

TL;DR

This paper evaluates and compares two channel models for 140 GHz indoor networks, integrating them into ns-3 TeraSim to analyze their impact on protocol stack interactions and network performance.

Contribution

It introduces and implements two recent channel models for 140 GHz in ns-3 TeraSim, enabling detailed performance evaluation of high-frequency indoor wireless networks.

Findings

Differences in model interactions with protocol stack and antennas.

Insights into model suitability for 6G network simulations.

Enhanced understanding of channel behavior above 100 GHz.

Abstract

The Sixth Generation (6G) of mobile networks is expected to use carrier frequencies in the spectrum above 100 GHz, to satisfy the demands for higher data rates and bandwidth of future digital applications. The development of networking solutions at such high frequencies is challenged by the harsh propagation environment, and by the need for directional communications and signal processing at high data rates. A fundamental step in defining and developing wireless networks above 100 GHz is given by an accurate performance evaluation. For simulations, this strongly depends on the accuracy of the modeling of the channel and of the interaction with the higher layers of the stack. This paper introduces the implementation of two recently proposed channel models (based on ray tracing and on a fully stochastic model) for the 140 GHz band for the ns-3 TeraSim module, which enables simulation of macro wireless networks in the sub-terahertz and terahertz spectrum. We also compare the two channel models with full-stack simulations in an indoor scenario, highlighting differences and similarities in how they interact with the protocol stack and antenna model of TeraSim.