CAREER: Multiple Transmit Elements for High Speed Robust Wireless Local Area Networks

Polytechnic University Of New York, Brooklyn NY

Investigators

Abstract

There is a tremendous market for tetherless and ubiquitous network access, and a great demand for nomadic computation and communication. A major component of such a system is a high speed robust wireless local area network (WLAN) that provides services for a limited geographical area. This limited geographical area enables a large density of access points as well as high power tranmissions and opens up the possibility of high rate robust multimedia communications comparable to wired systems. Even though the bandwidth is still scarce, the spatial dimension can now be exploited: The size of typical WLAN devices, such as laptops and hand-held computers, enable proper spacing of multiple antennas to provide diversity and coding gains. This research is aimed at a complete system design for multiple antenna methods in the WLAN environment including coding, modulation, channel estimation and power control strategies specifically tailored for the slow fading environment of a WLAN channel. In particular, high-rate multiple antenna coded modulation techniques and multiple transmit antenna joint source and channel coding strategies are developed. The issue of channel estimation along with feedback is investigated and power control based on limited feedback is adressed. A general approach to multiple transmit antenna methods is explored by providing a theoretical foundation for spatially separated antennas in WLAN environments. The education plan is closely aligned with the research work and emphasises the use of internet and computers in education by making use of Polytechnic University's newly installed WLAN system on campus. Curriculum development addresses specific needs of Polytechnic's professional masters program and is based on an integrated, end-to-end approach to communication systems.