Multiband OFDM
Wisair's Ultra Wideband technology is based on the Multiband OFDM (Orthogonal Frequency Division Modulation) standard. Multiband OFDM presents unique advantages for personal area networks, as it addresses performance requirements such as data throughput and range, while maintaining low cost and low power consumption.
Multiband OFDM divides the UWB spectrum (3.1 to 10.6 GHz) into 528-MHz-wide sub bands and uses OFDM modulation to transmit the information in each sub band. The OFDM symbols are then interleaved over three contiguous sub bands across both time and frequency to provide a robust link and maximum range to support multiple access between piconets.
The standard specifies two types of time-frequency codes (TFCs): one where the coded information is interleaved over three bands, referred to as Time-Frequency Interleaving (TFI); and, one where the coded information is transmitted on a single band, referred to as Fixed Frequency Interleaving (FFI).
Key advantages of Mutliband OFDM include:
- Spectral efficiency and excellent robustness to multipath
- Lower power usage
- Flexibility and ability to accommodate regulatory variations by adjusting to operate in different spectrums
- Coexistence with other wireless systems operating in the same range
For more information about Multiband OFDM, see the Wimedia Alliance technical library.