Not only is Massive Multiple Input/Multiple Output (MIMO) antenna
technology being considered, it is a critical component of the overall
approach to 5G/NR as a whole. Since NR/5G targets operation at
frequencies much higher than previous generations (up to 100GHz),
certain challenges need to be addressed.
At these higher frequencies, the path loss is higher over long distances, so antennas will need to be placed incloser proximity to each other in order to ensure ubiquitous and consistent coverage
Massive MIMO will enable complex and dynamic beamforming, which requires not only closer antenna proximity, but a much higher number of antenna components.
For example, 5G networks will consider antenna configurations with up to 1024 antenna elements at the networkantenna end, and up to 32 antenna elements in the user’s equipment.
These antenna configurations will address the anticipated challenges of 5G
connectivity and enable significant increases in network capability.
