Tailor-made radio channel measurement antenna array in anechoic chamber
“Nature is seldom kind” - With these words W.C. Jakes starts his classic book, Microwave Mobile Communications. In the sequel he connects this statement with the challenges (“... so difficult they challenge the imagination.”) of transmitting information over a radio channel. In the context of mobile communications, the radio channel limits the achievable data rate, system capacity, and quality of speech and data services. To get as close as possible to this limit, digital signal processing in transmitter and receiver, coupled with modern digital transmission schemes, have to be used extensively and constantly adapted to the ever changing characteristics of the radio channel.

Elevated antenna position for out-to-indoor radio channel measurements Given this complexity, knowledge of radio channel characterization and modeling is essential for modern mobile communications and radar systems. At IMST a dedicated group of researchers are a resource for clients and IMST engineers who need information on a radio channel and its impact on the design and performance of wireless and radar systems. Our experts consult on measurements, simulations, models, and algorithms. Innovative design within the physical layer requires theoretical considerations and simulations side by side with experimental tests. At every stage detailed and intensive knowledge of the characteristics of the radio channel is vital. This knowledge is of both physics and communications, combined with extensive measurement campaigns. Our expertise applies to other areas as well, such as investigating the co-existence of future systems with already existing ones or planning techniques for the efficient and economical use of the spectrum resource.