Black text logo: REASON 6G. The letter 'o' has been replaced by three concentric circles faded out at the bottom.

WP2Enabling Technologies for Multi-Access Networks

Enabling Technologies for Multi-Access Networks will develop technologies for multiple-access networks, including advanced radio, optical-wireless and fibre

Lead: Prof Harald Haas, University of Srathclyde

Overview

In WP2, key enabling technologies for multi-technology access networks for future open wireless networks are being developed including advanced optical systems, massive MIMO and cell-free radio access technologies, signal propagation manipulating tools, ultra-low latency switched fronthaul networks, and multi-technology integrated backhaul solutions.

WP2 is based on UK-born technologies, such as novel semiconductor manufacturing, hollow-core fibres, and LiFi, as well as research and innovation in which UK is a global leader.

Partners

  • University of Bristol
  • University of Cambridge
  • University of  Southampton
  • Queen’s University Belfast
  • Compound Semiconductor Centre
  • BBC
  • Nokia
  • Ericsson
  • BT

Tasks

The WP is broken down into five tasks:

T2.1: Semiconductor devices for next-generation communication and sensing

This task includes design, fabrication, and test of GaN SiC Power Amplifiers (PAs), 5 x 5 Vertical Cavity Surface Emitting Laser (VCSEL) array, Quad PIN photodetector, and O-band Semiconductor Optical Amplifiers (SOAs).

T2.2: Next generation radio access technologies (including signal propagation manipulating tools)

This task focuses on exploring new regions of RF spectrum at FR1, FR2 and FR3 for emerging wireless applications. Underpinning spectrum access is the fabrication and deployment of novel Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces (RIS) and Edges (RIEs), as well as the design and test of RIS-assisted cell-free massive MIMO for improved energy efficiency and coverage. Moreover, real-world MIMO channel measurements will be carried out to support and enhance the network design as well as to contribute to 3GPP standards. Hybrid beam forming and development of a digital twin platform for radio network analysis is the other aspect of this task.

T2.3: Low-latency, high-capacity resilient x-haul

Optical fibre technologies are integrated into REASON architecture to support future requirements. This task looks at expanding the capacity of optical cables by accommodating previously inaccessible spectral bands and novel broadband amplifiers at:

  1. 1.3 mm (Bismuth-doped fibre amplifiers)
  2. 1.0 mm (Ytterbium-doped fibre amplifiers).

Moreover, network resilience is being tackled by long range optical fibre power delivery using double-clad and hollow-core fibers.

T2.4: New Optical wireless networks

This task develops LiFi systems based on the new VCSEL arrays and QPIN detectors developed in REASON to provide mobile bidirectional connectivity with a minimum of 10 Gbps/m2 density to support future applications. Optical wireless power transfer as well as investigation of low-complexity free-space optical satellite links are other aspects of this task.

T2.5: Intelligent multi-access service controller

This task develops the world’s first multi technology real-time intelligent controller (mATRIC), which integrates all the access technologies and allocates resources based on the network and user requirements. mATRIC is a cutting-edge software platform designed to revolutionize network implementation and enable the transition to technology-agnostic networks.

Initial output of WP2

  1. Publications: 20+ journal, 20+ conference papers
  2. IP potential: 1 patent filed, 1 potential patent in progress
  3. First demonstration of mATRIC at Mobile World Congress 2024
  4. World’s first 5 x 5 VCSEL array achieving 400 Gbps aggregate data rates for multiuser indoor access
  5. Development of novel Reconfigurable Intelligent Surface (RIS) and Edge (RIE) prototype
  6. Ten separate experimental demos planned showcasing WP2 innovations