Near-field communications: characteristics, technologies, and engineering

Yajun Zhao, Linglong Dai*, Jianhua Zhang*, Ran Ji, Mengnan Jian, Hao Xue, Hongkang Yu, Yunqi Sun, Yu Lu, Zidong Wu, Zhuo Xu, Jinke Li, Haiyang Miao, Zhiqiang Yuan, Pan Tang, Jiayu Shen, Tierui Gong, Haixia Liu, Jiaqi Han, Qiang FengZhi Chen, Lingxiang Li, Gang Yang, Yong Zeng, Cunhua Pan, Wang Liu, Kangda Zhi, Weidong Hu, Yuanwei Liu, Xidong Mu, Chau Yuen, Mérouane Debbah, Chongwen Huang*, Long Li*, Ping Zhang*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

Abstract

Near-field technology is increasingly recognized due to its transformative potential in communication systems, establishing it as a critical enabler for sixth-generation (6G) telecommunication development. This paper presents a comprehensive survey of recent advancements in near-field technology research. First, we explore the near-field propagation fundamentals by detailing definitions, transmission characteristics, and performance analysis. Next, we investigate various near-field channel models—deterministic, stochastic, and electromagnetic information theory based models, and review the latest progress in near-field channel testing, highlighting practical performance and limitations. With evolving channel models, traditional mechanisms such as channel estimation, beamtraining, and codebook design require redesign and optimization to align with near-field propagation characteristics. We then introduce innovative beam designs enabled by near-field technologies, focusing on non-diffractive beams (such as Bessel and Airy) and orbital angular momentum (OAM) beams, addressing both hardware architectures and signal processing frameworks, showcasing their revolutionary potential in near-field communication systems. Additionally, we highlight progress in both engineering and standardization, covering the primary 6G spectrum allocation, enabling technologies for near-field propagation, and network deployment strategies. Finally, we conclude by identifying promising future research directions for near-field technology development that could significantly impact system design. This comprehensive review provides a detailed understanding of the current state and potential of near-field technologies.

Translated title of the contribution近场通信: 基础特性、关键技术与工程化应用
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1580-1626
Number of pages47
JournalFrontiers of Information Technology and Electronic Engineering
Volume25
Issue number12
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Dec 2024

Keywords

  • 6G
  • Channel model
  • Codebook
  • Engineering and standardization
  • Near-field technology
  • Non-diffractive beams
  • Orbital angular momentum
  • TN929.5

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