# Polarization-diversity backscatter communication based on programmable information metasurface

## TL;DR

This paper introduces a new backscatter communication system using metasurfaces that improves reliability and interference resistance by using polarization diversity.

## Contribution

A polarization-diversity backscatter system using programmable metasurfaces is proposed, enabling distinct modulation in two polarization directions.

## Key findings

- The system achieves 2 Mbps data rate using BPSK and BASK modulation in two polarization channels.
- It demonstrates improved reliability and strong interference resistance for IoT applications.
- The system operates at 5 GHz with low power consumption and high stability.

## Abstract

Backscatter communication (BC) is a low-power technology that transmits data by reflecting ambient RF signals. Conventional BC, based on antenna impedance modulation, suffers from low data rates and poor interference resistance. Programmable information metasurface (IMS) offers a breakthrough by enabling precise wave control. This article presents a PIN-diode-based IMS for polarization-diversity backscatter transmission. It performs full-space secondary modulation, converting horizontally polarized incident waves into ±45° polarized signals. Operating at 5 GHz, the system uses two polarization channels with BPSK and BASK modulation to transmit the same data, achieving 2 Mbps with improved reliability through diversity. The proposed system exhibits low power consumption, strong interference resistance, and high stability, making it suitable for IoT applications such as smart healthcare and environmental monitoring.

•A polarization diversity backscatter communication system based on information metasurfaces•The system can achieve distinct information modulation schemes in two polarization directions•The information metasurface system significantly enhances anti-interference performance

A polarization diversity backscatter communication system based on information metasurfaces

The system can achieve distinct information modulation schemes in two polarization directions

The information metasurface system significantly enhances anti-interference performance

Applied sciences; Engineering; Devices