Due to the scarcity of spectrum and the increasing demand for high throughput, the spectrum is anticipated to move towards higher frequencies in the future B5G/6G generation. However, higher frequencies have shorter wavelengths, which results in challenges such as lower coverage and increased susceptibility to obstacles like walls. Solutions to this include deploying more small cells, repeaters, and Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces (RIS) to extend the signal range of base stations.
What is Reconfigurable Intelligent Surface (RIS)?
RIS is typically a passive device with materials capable of manipulating electromagnetic wavefronts. By adjusting the properties of these surfaces, RIS can modify the propagation characteristics of wireless signals, such as reflecting high-frequency signals toward specified directions. This capability helps overcome signal blockages and enhance the overall performance of wireless communication systems.
Demonstration of Y.RIS operation
Y.RIS: Control Signal-reflected Direction with Liquid Crystals
YTTEK’s Y.RIS is a liquid crystal-based RIS device operating in the 28GHz frequency band. It leverages well-established LCD panel manufacturing processes and integrates metasurface technology by designing metasurface antenna unit cells on a glass substrate. The phase control component applies voltage to the electrodes at both ends of the liquid crystal, inducing changes in the electric field. This alteration in the electric field modifies the polarization direction of the liquid crystal, thereby adjusting its effective dielectric constant (permittivity) and fine-tuning the signal phase, consequently altering the direction of signal reflection.
Exploring Y.RIS Applications
The compact and lightweight Y.RIS can be installed in various indoor spaces, such as homes and offices, to reflect signals to dead spots flexibly. Alternatively, it can be deployed in smart factories to expand the signal coverage for private broadband 5G/6G networks, ensuring stable signal connections for precision equipment and engineering facilities. Y.RIS is also suitable for installation in crowded venues like stadiums and airports to enhance the overall performance of high-frequency communication systems.
Cost and Energy Efficiency: Collaboration between Y.RIS and Small Cells (Y.BEAM G)
Collaboration between Y.RIS and small cells (Y.BEAM G) has the potential to generate a more cost-effective and energy-efficient communication system. For example, to set up a smart factory, 5 small cells are required, with 2 of them dedicated to reinforcing dead zones. This setup costs approximately $5,000 and consumes around 750 watts of energy. However, if the small cells initially used to cover dead zones are replaced with 2 RIS units, the cost is reduced to approximately $3,400, and power consumption is lowered to 604 watts. Through the integration of Y.RIS with small cells, a more efficient 5G mmWave communication system can be created.
Leveraging years of innovation in mmWave technology and the technical strength of liquid crystal panel manufacturer, YTTEK has created the revolutionary LC-RIS solution, laying the groundwork for a better B5G/6G Solution in advance.
Y.LOAD Satellite Payload and Y.BEAM K / Ka band Antenna’s Innovative Integration
2023 Taipei Aeospace & Defense Technology Exhibition is jointly organized by TASA, ITRI, and several other organizations. In order to promote Taiwan’s space industry to the world, YTTEK will showcase communication equipment specifically designed for satellites, adding an element of interest to the exhibition.
