Wireless D-Band Breakthrough at 20 Gbit/s Paves the Way for 6G Networks

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For the first time, two companies have demonstrated stable terahertz connections with electronically controllable antennas. This is an important milestone for wireless high-speed communication via 6G.

Wireless communication is increasingly reaching capacity limits in established frequency bands. While 5G networks already utilize millimeter waves up to 60 GHz, the D-band between 110 and 170 GHz promises significantly higher data rates for future 6G applications. However, these terahertz frequencies also come with new technical requirements: strong attenuation, precise beam steering, and complex antenna technology have so far hindered practical implementation.

Electronically Controlled Transmitarray Antenna as Key Technology

Anritsu and the Finnish research center VTT have now achieved a significant breakthrough by validating a complete wireless system in the D-band under realistic conditions for the first time. The core component is a transmitarray antenna developed by VTT, which integrates electronically controllable phase shifter elements and vector modulator MMICs. Unlike mechanically guided systems, this solution enables fast and precise beam control without moving parts. This is a crucial advantage, particularly for mobile and industrial applications.

In the demonstration, the system achieved a stable throughput of 20 Gbps over a distance of one meter and demonstrated reliable operation up to a distance of seven meters. Particularly noteworthy is that the tests were conducted with broadband, modulated signals with bandwidths of up to 8 GHz under over-the-air conditions—and not just in a laboratory environment. Anritsu's instrument-grade measurement technology ensured the reproducibility and scalability of the results.

Turning Point for the Electronics Industry

The demonstration now presented marks a turning point. For the first time, D-band wireless was validated at the system level under practical conditions. This moves the technology from the research stage toward commercialization. The electronic beam steering addresses a core problem of terahertz communication, namely the need for precise alignment combined with high mobility.

The practical applications are diverse. In 6G networks, D-band connections could enable ultra-fast backhaul links between base stations. In industrial IoT scenarios, local high-speed networks could be deployed without cabling, while defense applications require secure, high-capacity wireless connections. New possibilities also arise for campus networks or temporary events.

Outlook: From the Laboratory to Practice

"This milestone demonstration shortens adoption cycles and scales D-band technology from the lab to live networks," summarizes VTT Director Tauno Vähä Heikkilä. The partners are already planning field trials with industry partners to evaluate specific application scenarios. For the electronics industry, this means terahertz wireless is moving from a futuristic vision to a tangible technology for the next decade. (heh)