Highly integrated Radio-Frequency Front-End for next generation wireless systems

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Mobile traffic has been doubling annually, and this exponential growth is set to continue over the next five years. By the end of the decade, the average mobile user could be downloading one terabyte of data each year. To meet this demand, a fifth-generation (5G) cellular technology will need to be developed. The integration of the radio-frequency (RF) front-end, however, presents several challenges that still need to be addressed for the advent of the next generation of wireless communication systems. Current solutions are too expensive and power hungry for portable systems. Also, due to interconnect losses and crosstalk, the integration of passive millimeter-wave components with active integrated circuits is a complex process.The global objective of this research program is to explore enabling technologies for the low-cost fabrication of high performance, fully integrated millimeter-wave passive RF front-end. The long-term objectives are: a) advance knowledge in the field of millimeter-wave systems, b) apply this knowledge to propose innovative and efficient technologies for ultra-high data-rate systems and c) train HQP in the field of RF system design. More specifically, in the next 5 years, this program will focus on exploring novel solutions for 5G and beyond integrated front-ends for wireless networks. To achieve this goal I will pursue four core research threads: 1) explore novel scanning antennas to efficiently maximize channel capacity; 2) study multi-functionality integration techniques in order to reduce the size of the passive front-end sub-systems while preserving their performances; 3) research system on a package (SoP) technologies for the complete integration of all components and 4) investigate power dissipation techniques for highly integrated millimeter-wave transceivers.Wireless communications are omnipresent and mobile users are continually asking for larger data-rate. This exciting undertaking will explore several innovative ideas targeting the next generation of wireless networks, such as highly integrated frequency scanning beamforming network and multifunction components, which will be integrated on into single platform. The potential impact of the proposed program is vast: the investigation of novel technologies for millimeter-wave wireless systems could fundamentally change the way users interact with their communication devices. This research program will help develop an expertise in this emerging field with promising economic benefits that are widespread in scope. It will also provide unique training for graduate and undergraduate students by exposing them to design, fabrication and integration of millimetre-wave systems. Such skills are currently highly sought after by the large pools of Canadian companies working in the field of RF devices.