Challenges in certifying 6G innovations

6G research not only helps to explore specific channel characteristics but also to validate the performance of frequencies, waveforms, and other new features from the physical layer to higher-layer protocols. Researchers must address challenging difficulties at both the channel and network levels.

Channel-level challenges

At the channel level, transmitting high-frequency signals faces numerous challenges, including transmission loss, as terahertz (THz) and near-terahertz bands exhibit high attenuation, causing signal strength to drop sharply over long distances. These bands also suffer from crosstalk, where high-frequency signals fade when encountering obstacles such as trees or buildings, leading to coverage issues.

Another issue is atmospheric absorption. THz signals are particularly sensitive to absorption by gases in the atmosphere, which reduces signal strength and reliability.

Additionally, there are challenges regarding transmission power budgeting. The wide bandwidth of 6G signals can lead to lower signal-to-noise ratios, as energy is spread across a wider frequency band.

Problems associated with multipath propagation include interference and fading. Signals reflected from surfaces to the receiver at different times lead to interference and signal distortion. This problem is even more severe in urban environments. When fading occurs, the rapid variation in signal amplitude due to multipath effects alters signal quality and reduces transmission reliability.

In the process of generating and managing beamforming, precise beamforming techniques are required to direct narrow, high-frequency beams toward the receiver, and beamforming can be challenging in dynamic environments. Another challenge is beam tracking, as the receiver's position needs to be constantly monitored to adjust the beam orientation in real time, making the system more complex.

The 6G Lab at Northeast University in the US is researching a 130 GHz broadband MIMO system to increase data throughput and transmission distance.

Network-level challenges

Network-level challenges include issues related to network density and interference, latency and reliability, and the ability to integrate with heterogeneous networks.

At the network level, performance depends on mitigating problems arising from network density and inter-cell interference, as well as spectrum management. High-density networks with many small cells can increase inter-cell interference, reducing overall network performance. Efficient spectrum management is crucial for reducing interference and increasing the utilization of available frequencies.

Ms. Hwee Yng Yeo, Director of Industry and Solutions at Keysight Technologies Inc.

Latency and reliability are also key parameters for achieving ultra-low latency targets (such as 1 microsecond latency), and require highly efficient signal processing and transmission techniques. Furthermore, reliable 6G connectivity must be ensured across diverse environments, such as urban, rural, and remote areas.

Integrating 6G networks with existing 5G networks and other wireless technologies requires seamless transitions between network types and addressing interoperability issues. Ensuring the interoperability of different network components and technologies, such as satellite, terrestrial, and air networks, is essential to achieving comprehensive coverage and performance goals.

From theory to simulation and modeling of 6G.

Researchers are modeling different 6G usage scenarios, including channel propagation, waveforms, and networks, using simulation design software tools.

The next step in this 6G development process is to translate these simulation results into real-world signal simulations. Simulation is a crucial factor in measuring 6G system performance in real-time channels and networks, from physical protocols to higher layers.

Simulating 6G signals in a controlled environment allows researchers to accurately assess the performance of 6G systems. This work includes evaluating the challenges mentioned above under replicable conditions, as well as fine-tuning programs for different scenarios. Researchers can also study system vulnerabilities through simulation and address security issues early on.

6G: From innovative research to reality

For example, to contribute to the development of 6G technology, Keysight collaborated with 6G researchers at Northeastern University to explore 130 GHz broadband MIMO systems and conduct real-time near-THz research at the network layer.

The market expects 6G to be commercialized by 2030 – meaning we have at most five years to realize products and applications that comply with the standard, which is currently still under development. Researchers, device and component designers, testing and measurement experts, network and cybersecurity engineers, and regulatory agencies are collaborating across the entire 6G ecosystem to make 6G a reality.

Hwee Yng Yeo, Keysight Technologies

Source: https://doanhnghiepvn.vn/cong-nghe/nhung-thach-thuc-trong-xac-nhan-hop-chuan-cho-cac-sang-tao-6g/20250619052935383