Correlation-based Dual-band THz Channel Measurements and Characterization in a Laboratory

TL;DR

This study conducts laboratory measurements of THz channels at 140 GHz and 220 GHz, analyzing key propagation characteristics to aid in the development of ultra-high data rate 6G systems.

Contribution

It provides detailed THz channel measurements and analysis in a laboratory setting, including scattering, path loss, and fading characteristics, which are essential for system design.

Findings

Significant scattering clusters identified and analyzed.

Channel characteristics compared with 3GPP standards.

Propagation behaviors at 140 GHz and 220 GHz characterized.

Abstract

The Terahertz band, spanning from 0.1~THz to 10~THz, is envisioned as a key technology to realize ultra-high data rates in the 6G and beyond mobile communication systems, due to its abundant bandwidth resource. However, to realize THz communications, one substantial step is to fully understand the THz channels, which relies on extensive channel measurements. In this paper, using a correlation-based time domain channel sounder, measurement campaigns are conducted in a laboratory at 140~GHz and 220~GHz. In the data post-processing procedures, the time drift of clock signals is corrected using a linear interpolation/extrapolation method. Based on the measured results, the main objects that provide significant once-scattering clusters are found, based on which the scattering losses are calculated and analyzed. Furthermore, the channel characteristics, including path loss, shadow fading, K-factor, etc. are calculated and compared to 3GPP standard values. The propagation analysis and channel characteristics are helpful to study channel modeling and guide system design for THz communications.