Since its launch, 5G networks have remained in constant evolution, going through some stages. The most recent iteration is 5G Advanced, also known as 5G Enhanced. However, there are already researchers working on different approaches that could enable the 6G networks of the future. Recent research yielded promising results for possible implementation in 6G networks, achieving record data transmission speeds.
Researchers at the University of Adelaide with international funding have been experimenting with a tiny chip capable of managing terahertz waves. These waves work at an optimal point in the electromagnetic spectrum, between microwaves and infrared light. With the right technology, communication systems based on terahertz waves have the potential to greatly exceed current transmission speeds.
Terahertz waves-based 6G networks may bring record data speeds
The benefit of terahertz waves is that they can transmit large amounts of data without problems. While 4G and 5G networks are already powerful on their own, terahertz-based technology is like implementing wider, more spacious roads in crowded areas. In other words, it can make the data transmission we think of as rapid today seem slow.
The basis of the research is a small chip made from a 250-micrometer-thick silicon wafer. The chip also requires high electrical resistance as a key property. The team subjected it to various tests of data transmission using terahertz waves. The chip, called “polarization multiplexer,” was able to effectively address some of the main obstacles to working with terahertz technology.
First, these types of waves are difficult to manage efficiently. However, the polarization multiplexer was able to act as “traffic cop,” directing the orientation and oscillation of two waves with minimal signal loss. This is critical for a potential telecommunications standard implementation. The small chip had an average signal loss of about 1 decibel.
Up to 190 gigabits per second with minimal loss
The team demonstrated the incredible properties of their chip in real-world tests by streaming two video signals simultaneously over a terahertz link. The results doubled the current data transmission capacity over a conventional channel. As for transmission speeds, the chip reached up to 64 gigabits per second. The speed was even higher using a more complex modulation scheme (16-QAM), reaching 190 gigabits per second.
This tech breakthrough could revolutionize telecommunications and remote interactions as we know them. While many people may concentrate on data transmission speeds, we should not overlook the resulting extremely low signal loss. Imagine a future with lag-free wireless networks for online gaming or powering remote surgeries with lag-free connections and ultra-high-resolution images. It would also be especially useful for more realistic and immersive VR-based experiences. The latter could become especially important after Samsung and Apple launch new VR headsets in the future.
Challenges to overcome before a mass implementation
Of course, implementing terahertz technology across entire telecommunications networks is not without its challenges. For example, these waves exhibit low range and high interference with obstacles in the way. In this sense, it’s similar to the 5 GHz band on your WiFi router. More efficient systems are also required for creating and detecting terahertz waves. The studio tested a tiny chip, but it needs efficient scaling methods to meet the demands of much larger platforms.
Still, it’s not like you’re going to see terahertz-powered 6G networks with record data speeds tomorrow. Meanwhile, 5G networks continue to evolve and deploy. However, the research team’s expectations are high. “Within a decade, we foresee widespread adoption and integration of these terahertz technologies across various industries, revolutionizing fields such as telecommunications, imaging, radar, and the Internet of Things,” Prof. Withayachumnankul of the University of Adelaide predicts.
2024-09-02 15:06:40