Uwb Technology

Understanding Ultra Wideband Technology: Advantages, Applications and Regulatory Policy Master of Arts in Law and Diplomacy Thesis
THE FLETCHER SCHOOL OF LAW & DIPLOMACY Tufts University
Understanding Ultra Wideband Technology: Advantages, Applications and Regulatory Policy
Deepali Iyengar MALD 2002
Prof. Lee McKnight MALD Thesis
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Table of Contents
Page No.
1) Introduction and Background What is Ultra Wideband Technology History of Ultra Wideband Technology
6 7 9 13 13 15 17 18 20 32 32 36 46 46 50 52 55 62 64
2) Features of Ultra Wideband Technology Ultra Wideband and Wideband Technology Advantages of Ultra Wideband Technology Disadvantages of Ultra Wideband Technology Overlap between Ultra Wideband and other systems
3) Major Players in the UWB Market 4) Potential Markets and Applications Potential Markets for Ultra Wideband Technology Applications of Ultra Wideband Technology
5) Ultra Wideband Technology and Policy DARPAs Assessment of Ultra Wideband Technology FAAs Issues with Ultra Wideband Technology FCCs views on Ultra Wideband Technology
6) Regulatory Policy for Ultra Wideband Technology Impact of the new FCC guidelines
7) Conclusions
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ABSTRACT
Ultra-Wideband (UWB) is a wireless technology for transmitting large amounts of digital data over a wide spectrum of frequency bands with very low power for a short distance. Some of the advantages of UWB include high data rate performance for high speed mobile and multi-user applications, very fine range resolution, precision distance and positioning measurement capabilities, low probability of detection as well as low system complexity and low cost. The disadvantages of UWB include the possibility of interference with other systems and signal noise.
The purpose of this thesis is to understand Ultra Wideband Technology and its applications and to see whether this technology is really breakthrough and whether it is a viable technology for the future.
Different applications for Ultra Wideband technology are classified under three main areas: Communications, Radar and Tracking. UWB communications applications include: in-building communications systems, indoor broadband cellular phones, private radios, and wireless broadband Internet access. Radar applications of UWB technology include: through-wall sensing radar, security systems tracking movement, collision avoidance sensors for cars and boats, industrial robotic controls and advanced highway construction and inspection
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equipment. Examples of UWB precision tracking applications include: personnel and asset tracking for increased safety and security, location-based content delivery systems, and mobility-based commerce capabilities.
The existing rules for unlicensed devices were developed for devices using conventional narrowband technology and did not address UWB devices. So new guidelines had to be created to govern UWB. The FCC and the NTIA commissioned reports, which showed that operation of UWB devices is feasible in portions of the spectrum between about 3.1 and 5.650 GHz at heights of about 2 meters with some operating constraints. Accordingly, on February 14, 2002, the Federal Communication Commission (FCC) adopted a First Report and Order that permitted the marketing and operation of certain types of new products incorporating ultra-wideband technology, mainly in the frequency band 3.1-10.6 GHz. The Commission intends to review the standards for UWB
devices within the next six to twelve months and issue a further notice of proposed rule making to explore more flexible standards and address the operation of additional types of UWB operations and technology.
The conclusions that were reached during the course of researching and writing this thesis were that Ultra Wideband Technology is indeed a revolutionary technology, with many interesting aspects and applications that would benefit the world of communications greatly. The problem with this kind of technology is that it overlaps over existing spectrum and the controlling authorities like the NTIA
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and the FCC are not convinced that this overlap would not cause interference with other existing technologies as well as with defense and aviation frequencies. Hence they have been very cautious with their policies for commercializing UWB.
Therefore, it would probably be more beneficial for the propagators of Ultra Wideband, to first commercialize this technology in developing countries, which are still establishing their telecommunication infrastructures. These countries would be more willing to adapt to UWB as it would benefit them greatly and the companies involved in UWB would have ready markets in which they could test their products and prove their effectiveness. Once established in these markets, it would be easier for them to make inroads into developed countries.
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Understanding Ultra Wideband Technology: Advantages, Applications and Regulatory Policy
1. Introduction and Background
The explosive growth of the Internet has given rise to a tremendous demand for high bandwidth wireless communications. In the "Last Mile" arena, which deals with the broadband connection of Internet users to the telecommunications backbone, mobile access technologies such as 3G, and fixed access technologies such as Multichannel Multipoint Distribution Service (MMDS) and Local Multipoint Distribution Service (LMDS) have come into play. In the area of Local Area Networks (LAN), data communications systems based on 802.11 and HomeRF are currently available. Finally, the development of products incorporating Bluetooth has supported the emergence of the new field of Personal Area Networks (PAN). But unfortunately, the radio frequency spectrum is a precious resource. Telecommunications companies have spent billions of dollars to purchase licenses for the use of FCC allocated bands of spectrum. License free bands also exist, but these bands are narrow, and can only support limited high bandwidth
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traffic. Today, huge amounts of R&D are being spent to develop new methods that more efficiently use each radio frequency band. One new and interesting technology is gaining prominence in the industry today. This new technology is considered to be a breakthrough as it is not restricted to a particular band of spectrum, but in fact, overlays itself over existing spectrum, thus making better use of available bandwidth. It is known as Ultra Wideband Technology. This paper will be focusing on the various aspects of Ultra Wideband Technology including its advantages, commercial applications and also the regulatory policies surrounding it. As this is such a cutting edge technology, there is not much information on Ultra Wideband that is found in either books or industry journals. For example, even the latest issue of the IEEE Communications magazine (April 2002), which has a special edition on Wideband technology, does not address Ultra Wideband in any significant way. Thus, the author had to rely on information from company sources and white papers to research and study this subject.
What is Ultra Wideband Technology? Ultra-Wideband (UWB) is an alternative wireless communications technology that offers the promise of high bandwidth wireless communications without the constraints of spectrum allocation. Fundamentally different from conventional radio frequency communications, UWB relies on a series of narrow, precisely timed pulses to transmit digital data. Transmitters and receivers that use UWB
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can be much simpler to build than their conventional counterparts, resulting in lower cost and higher power efficiency. Moreover, the inherent properties of UWB emissions allow them to potentially coexist with conventional wireless systems on a non-interfering basis1.
Ultra Wideband radio is a revolutionary wireless technology for transmitting digital data over a wide spectrum of frequency bands with very low power. It can transmit data at very high rates (for wireless local area network applications) and very low rates (for telemetry applications). Within the power limit allowed under the current FCC regulations, Ultra Wideband can not only carry huge amounts of data over a short distance at very low power, but also has the ability to carry signals through doors and other obstacles that tend to reflect signals at more limited bandwidths and a higher power. At higher power levels, UWB signals can travel to significantly greater ranges. Instead of traditional sine waves, Ultra Wideband Radio broadcasts digital pulses that are timed very precisely on a signal across a very wide spectrum at the same time. Transmitter and receiver must be coordinated to send and receive pulses with an accuracy of trillionths of a second2. The term "ultra wideband" is a relatively new term to describe a technology, which had been known since the early 1960s as carrier-free, baseband, or "impulse" technology. The basic concept is to develop, transmit and receive an
Tomorrows Technology Teachers, Ultra wideband Technology What is it? August 1999. Available at http://ed.tsud.edu/tcubed/whats_this/whats_this_intro.htm (visited on October 5, 2001)
1
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extremely short duration burst of radio frequency (RF) energy typically a few tens of picoseconds (trillionths of a second) to a few nanoseconds (billionths of a second) in duration. These bursts represent from one to only a few cycles of an RF carrier wave. The resultant waveforms are extremely broadband, so much so that it is often difficult to determine an actual RF center frequency thus, the term "carrier-free". Early methods of signal generation utilized "baseband" (i.e., non-RF), fast rise-time pulse excitation of a wideband microwave antenna to generate and radiate the antennas effective "impulse" response. (More precisely, it is the antennas "step" response that is actually produced.) More modern UWB systems, no longer utilize direct impulse excitation of an antenna because of the inability of such an approach to adequately control emission bandwidths and apparent center frequencies3. Please refer to Exhibit 1 at the end of the paper, for a diagram that shows the Emission Bandwidth of a UWB transmitter.
History of Ultra Wideband Technology4 The only radio technologies available in the earliest days of wireless at the end of the 19th century and at the beginning of the 20th century were pulse radios. In 1893, Heinrich Hertz used a pulsed spark discharge to generate electromagnetic waves for his experiments, and for 20 years thereafter, spark gaps and arc
Ibid What is Ultra Wideband Technology May 2000. Available at www.aetherwire.com/CDROM/Welcome.html (Visited on October 3, 2001)
3 2
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discharges between carbon electrodes were the principal mechanisms for producing these signals. Eventually, rotating generators and later vacuum tube and solid-state oscillators were used to produce sinusoidal radio waves. Receivers could then discriminate among transmitters operating at different frequencies.5
In 1942, Louis de Rosa filed for two patents. On November 23 he sought one for radio detection systems in which the transmission of impulses may occur either steadily or at random. He applied for the second patent, random impulse system, a few weeks after the first, on December 18, 1942, and received it more than eleven years later, in 1954 it was among numerous patents that were frozen until long after WW II because the U.S. government believed they covered critical wartime secrets. Conrad H. Hoeppner filed for another core patent in November 1945, and received it sixteen years later, in September 1961. It outlines a pulse communication system meant to reduce interference and jamming, and to enhance specificity, reliability, and secrecy.6
Modern contributions to the field of UWB stepped up in the late 1960s with the published work of Gerald Ross at the Sperry Corporation and Henning Harmuth at Catholic University, who studied the main components of a UWB transmission
Fantasma Networks, Ultra Wideband: An Emerging Technology for Wireless Communications G Roberto Aiello, Minnie Ho, Jim Lovette. Available at www.fantasma.net (visited on February 26, 2002) 5 Fantasma Networks, Ultra Wideband: An Emerging Technology for Wireless Communications 6 Fantasma Networks, Ultra Wideband: An Emerging Technology for Wireless Communications
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system and established the basic design for UWB transceivers. The main focus was on pulse generation and detection techniques7.
Since the 1960s and 1970s, UWB technologies have been developed for commercial non-communications applications. By the late 1990s new implementations of UWB components as well as a better understanding of system characteristics have taken UWB technologies to a stage of maturity that allows the building and commercialization of high performance, low cost wireless communication systems. Most UWB developments are still in the laboratory because the FCC has not yet authorized their use. In the same period, an explosive growth of consumer demand for access to networked and media-based broadband information has outstripped available wireless delivery capacity8.
In 1996, members of the wireless industry began to discuss several new wireless LAN standards, including BlueTooth, HomeRF, and IEEE 802.15. Each LAN concept was based upon different usage models and was backed by different telecommunications providers. The lack of an alternative, possibly international, frequency band forced all the standards to be based on the 2.4 GHz band, even though the FCC initiated the 5 GHz band in the same year9.
Each of the standards was a small evolution of previous LAN standards, especially with respect to the quality of service provided for voice and video.
7 8
Fantasma Networks, Ultra Wideband: An Emerging Technology for Wireless Communications Fantasma Networks, Ultra Wideband: An Emerging Technology for Wireless Communications
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None approached the ability to deliver the combinations of high definition video and other media that were demanded by the consumer market. This shortcoming invigorated a search for better technologies, which called attention to the unique merits of UWB10.
10
Fantasma Networks, Ultra Wideband: An Emerging Technology for Wireless Communications Fantasma Networks, Ultra Wideband: An Emerging Technology for Wireless Communications
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2. Features of Ultra Wideband Technology
Ultra Wideband and Wideband Technology Ultra Wideband Technology is part of a larger gamut of technology known as Wideband or Broadband technology. To understand Ultra Wideband better, let us first try to understand wideband or broadband. Wideband and Broadband are two synonymous terms used for the same technology. In general, wideband or broadband refers to telecommunication in which a wide band of frequencies is available to transmit information. It is a transmission medium or channel that has a wider bandwidth than one voice channel (with a carrier wave of a certain modulated frequency). Because a wide band of frequencies is available, information can be multiplexed and sent on many different frequencies or channels within the band concurrently, allowing more information to be transmitted in a given amount of time. It is generally agreed that Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) and cable TV are broadband services in the downstream direction11.
Various definers of wideband or broadband have assigned a minimum data rate to the term. Here are a few:
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Newton's Telecom Dictionary: "...greater than a voice grade line of 3 KHz.some say [it should be at least] 20 KHz."
Jupiter Communications: at least 256 Kbps. IBM Dictionary of Computing: A broadband channel is "6 MHz wide."12
Thus, Ultra Wideband, which is a part of wideband, is a wireless technology for transmitting large amounts of digital data over a wide spectrum of frequency bands with very low power for a short distance. Ultra wideband radio not only can carry a huge amount of data over a distance up to 230 feet at very low power (less than 0.5 milliwatts), but also has the ability to carry signals through doors and other obstacles that tend to reflect signals at more limited bandwidths and a higher power. Ultra wideband can be compared with another short-distance wireless technology, Bluetooth, which is a standard for connecting handheld wireless devices with other similar devices and with desktop computers. 13
Ultra wideband broadcasts digital pulses that are timed very precisely on a carrier signal across a very wide spectrum (number of frequency channels) at the same time. Transmitter and receiver must be coordinated to send and receive pulses with an accuracy of trillionths of a second. On any given frequency band that may already be in use, the ultra wideband signal has less power than the
11
Ross D. Murch, Khaled Ben Lataief, Wideband Wireless Access Technologies to Broadband Internet, IEEE Communications Magazine, April 2002 12 Ibid 13 Search Networking, Ultra Wideband Definition Available at http://searchnetworking.techtarget.com/sDefinition/0,,sid7_gci213243,00.html (visited on February 27, 2002)
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normal and anticipated background noise so theoretically no interference is possible. Time Domain, a company applying to use the technology, uses a microchip manufactured by IBM to transmit 1.25 million bits per second, but believes that there is the potential for a data rate in the billions of bits per second14. The term Wideband is commonly contrasted with the term Narrowband. Generally, narrowband describes telecommunication that carries voice information in a narrow band of frequencies. More specifically, the term has been used to describe a specific frequency range set aside by the U.S. FCC for mobile or radio services, including paging systems, from 50 cps to 64 Kbps.15
Advantages of Ultra Wideband Technology Since UWB waveforms are of such short time duration, they have some rather unique properties. In communications, for example, UWB pulses can be used to provide extremely high data rate performance in multi-user network applications. For radar applications, these same pulses can provide very fine range resolution and precision distance and/or positioning measurement capabilities. In fact,
14 15
Ibid Search Networking, Narrowband Definition Available at http://searchnetworking.techtarget.com/sDefinition/0,,sid7_gci213243,00.html (visited on February 27, 2002)
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multifunction architectures encompassing communications, radar and positioning applications have been developed16. These short duration waveforms are relatively immune to multipath cancellation effects as observed in mobile and in-building environments. Multipath cancellation occurs when a strong reflected wave e.g., off of a wall, ceiling, vehicle, building, etc. arrives partially or totally out of phase with the direct path signal, causing a reduced amplitude response in the receiver. With very short pulses, the direct path has come and gone before the reflected path arrives and no cancellation occurs. As a consequence, UWB systems are particularly well suited for high-speed, mobile wireless applications. In addition, because of the extremely short duration waveforms, packet burst and time division multiple access (TDMA) protocols for multi-user communications are readily implemented17. As bandwidth is inversely related to pulse duration, the spectral extent of these waveforms can be made quite large. With proper engineering design, the resultant energy densities (i.e., transmitted Watts of power per unit Hertz of bandwidth) can be quite low. This low energy density translates into a low probability of detection (LPD) RF signature. An LPD signature is of particular interest for military applications (e.g., for covert communications and radar); however, an LPD signature also produces minimal interference to proximity
16
Multispectral Solutions Inc, Ultra Wideband (UWB) Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ), September 27, 2001. Available at http://www.multispectral.com/UWBFAQ.html (visited on October 17 2001) 17 Multispectral Solutions Inc, Ultra Wideband (UWB) Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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systems and minimal RF health hazards, significant for both military and commercial applications18. Among the most important advantages of UWB technology, however, are those of low system complexity and low cost. UWB systems can be made nearly "alldigital", with minimal RF or microwave electronics. Because of the inherent RF simplicity of UWB designs, these systems are highly frequency adaptive, enabling them to be positioned anywhere within the RF spectrum. This feature avoids interference to existing services, while fully utilizing the available spectrum19.
Disadvantages of Ultra Wideband Technology As with any technology, there are always applications that may be better served by other approaches. For example, for extremely high data rate (10s of Gigabits/second and higher), point-to-point or point-to-multipoint applications, it is difficult today for UWB systems to compete with high capacity optical fiber or optical wireless communications systems. Of course, the high cost associated with optical fiber installation and the inability of an optical wireless signal to penetrate a wall dramatically limits the applicability of optically based systems for in-home or in-building applications. In addition, optical wireless systems have
18 19
Multispectral Solutions Inc, Ultra Wideband (UWB) Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Multispectral Solutions Inc, Ultra Wideband (UWB) Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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extremely precise pointing requirements, obviating their use in mobile environments20. UWB is an RF wireless technology, and as such is still subject to the same laws of physics as every other RF technology. Thus, there are obvious tradeoffs to be made in signal-to-noise ratio versus bandwidth, range versus peak and average power levels, etc21.
Overlap between Ultra Wideband and Other Systems UWB is a Radio Frequency technology and has the potential to interfere with existing systems if not properly designed. Furthermore, there are several ways in which UWB emissions can be generated. Some of these techniques are more prone to generate harmful interference effects than are others. For example, UWB systems, which utilize direct impulse excitation of an antenna, produce energy, which is typically spread over a spectral extent significantly greater than the design bandwidth of the antenna. Unfortunately, it is very difficult to tightly control the bandwidth and center frequency of such emissions with an antenna alone, and the end result is that these emissions typically span restricted bands set aside by the Federal Communications Commission22. Other important aspects of UWB design, which directly impact interference potential, include pulse duty cycle and modulation strategy. Of course, the higher
20 21
Multispectral Solutions Inc, Ultra Wideband (UWB) Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Multispectral Solutions Inc, Ultra Wideband (UWB) Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) 22 Multispectral Solutions Inc, Ultra Wideband (UWB) Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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the pulse duty cycle, the greater the average amount of energy transmitted. In some proposed UWB schemes, multiple pulses are transmitted per single bit of information. This has the effect of further increasing the total amount of energy transmitted, or forcing the designer to accept a much lower data rate for a given average energy. In addition, a high pulse repetition frequency (PRF) has the effect of further concentrating this energy into a set of spectral lines. When a spectral line falls into the band of a sensitive receiver (e.g., GPS), considerable interference can result23. But, more modern techniques create a UWB waveform through pulse shaping prior to transmission from an antenna. These techniques have the considerable advantage of being controllable, both in frequency and bandwidth; and can be made to operate outside of restricted bands such as those reserved for GPS and safety of life systems24.
23 24
Multispectral Solutions Inc, Ultra Wideband (UWB) Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Multispectral Solutions Inc, Ultra Wideband (UWB) Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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3. Major Players in the UWB Market
Time Domain Corporation
Time Domain Corporation is considered by most people to be the founder and chief propagator of Ultra Wideband Technology. Time Domain has developed PulsON TM chipsets and chip designs based upon the Time Modulated Ultra Wideband (TM-UWB) architecture. PulsON TM technology transmits pulse trains of individual ultra-wideband pulses at very precise time intervals. The result: a low power, noise-like signal that can transmit data, voice and video communications; can be used as a personal radar; or can be used as a positioning and tracking device. The TM-UWB architecture was conceived as a means to enable high-bandwidth transmissions in the increasingly crowded spectrum. The TM-UWB technology is radically different from the traditional sine wave technology used in current wireless technology such as CDMA and TDMA25.
The TM-UWB architecture is characterized by: Ultra-short duration pulses which yield ultra-wide bandwidth signals Extremely low power spectral densities
25
Time Domain Corporation, PulsON Technology Time Modulated Ultra Wideband for Wireless Applications, June 2000, Available at http://www.ero.dk/EROWEB/SRD/UWB/Time%20Domain/Tech%20Overview%20400-0001%20A.pdf (visited on October 21, 2001)
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Center frequencies typically between 650 MHz and 5 GHz, with potential to go higher as technology advances
Multi-mile ranges with sub-milliWatt average power levels (even with low gain antennas)
Excellent immunity to interference from other radio systems26.
Time Domain uses Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs) to implement its PulsON technology into the market via products made by existing legacy companies, and to enable the incorporation of this technology into entirely new markets. Time Domain has developed two chips specific to TM-UWB radios. The first chip, the Timer, is capable of handling the 10-picosecond timing required by the radios. The second chip is a Correlator. It consists of a variable gain amplifier and three independent correlating circuits. Both of the RF chips have been developed using the Silicon Germanium process. These chips constitute the bulk of the RF portion of the radio. The third chip, a Digital Baseband Signal Processor and Controller, is currently under design27.
Products based upon the PulsON chipset are expected to enjoy the following benefits:
26
Exceptional multipath immunity Relatively simple and likely less costly to build than spread spectrum radios
Time Domain Corporation, The Pulse of the Future, Available at http://www.timedomain.com/Files/HTML/pressreleases/reportandorderfcc.html (visited on October 21, 2001)
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Expected to consume substantially less power than existing conventional radios
Could be implemented as a simple integrated circuit chipset with very few offchip parts
Capable of high bandwidth, multi-channel performance28.
TM-UWB will make it possible to develop and market devices that can detect buried objects such as plastic water pipes or gas pipes, or that can disclose unseen flaws in bridges, roads, and airport runways. Fire and rescue teams will be able to use ultra-wideband radar to locate people trapped in burning buildings or under collapsed structures. Law enforcement officers will be able to use these devices to conduct secret surveillance and communications since the communications on the low frequency ultra-wideband are only detected as background noise by other devices. Devices using the PulsON chipsets can track mobile inventories and calculate precise distances between objects. These chips would also allow for more flexibility and mobility of computers in schools, universities and offices29. Time Domains PulsON technology has the ability to fuse wireless communications, tracking and radar capabilities into a single chipset. It is the optimal technology for a wide array of applications including the following:
27
Time Domain Corporation, PulsON Technology Time Modulated Ultra Wideband for Wireless Applications 28 Time Domain Corporation, PulsON Technology Time Modulated Ultra Wideband for Wireless Applications, 29 Mobileinfo.com, US West takes stake in Time Domain to explore Ultra Wideband Available at www.mobileinfo.com/News/News_2000_Issue19/USWest.htm (Visited on October 21, 2001)
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Home wireless networks Numerous public safety applications involving motion detection through walls or rubble.
In-building personnel and asset tracking High-speed local area networks and wide area networks Invisible security domes and fences Collision avoidance sensors Ultra high precision positioning/tracking systems30
Multispectral Solutions Inc.
Multispectral Solutions (MSSI) has had a long history of developing and fielding UWB hardware and systems for a large number of Government and military customers and applications. With its patented UWB receiver technology, MSSI has demonstrated the ability to detect single pulses of UWB energy with extremely high sensitivity and in the presence of high interference. A single-pulse detection capability is critical for high-speed mobile wireless applications. Singlepulse detection also allows for a significant reduction in transmitted power, with resultant reduction in interference potential to other systems. The unique
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properties of MSSI's detector also include the ability to respond to the leading edge of a UWB pulse, enabling applications for precision positioning and geolocation for buildings and environments with multi-paths31. MSSI's patented UWB transmitter design provides for architectures adapted for different frequencies as well as several bandwidths. These unique architectures enable the development of UWB systems which can coexist with existing spectral users without mutual interference, while minimizing the peak and average power levels required for reliable communications. Also, MSSI's technology has been proven competent through extensive field tests and evaluations in harsh electromagnetic environments32. Since its inception, MSSI has received a total of 43 contract awards (as of 21 November 2000) to develop UWB systems for the U.S. Government and military. These systems have included: Tactical handheld & network-capable LPI/D radios LPI/D standing for low probability of intercept and detection. These radios are designed for mobile ad hoc wireless network communications with data rates to 1.544 Mb/s; Non line-of-sight, surface wave communications systems, which utilize the unique properties of the earth to allow ultra wideband communications over difficult or blocked terrain;
30 31
Mobileinfo.com, US West takes stake in Time Domain to explore Ultra Wideband Multispectral Solutions Inc., History and Overview Available at www.multispectral.com/history.html (visited on 12/7/2001) 32 Ibid
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Datalinks for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and ground robotic vehicles these are used for the relay of video and data from these platforms, as well as for command & control of the vehicles. Data rates to 25 Mb/s have been demonstrated, with higher data rates envisioned for future applications;
UWB wireless intercom systems for secure communications on-board aircraft. These wireless systems use digital voice transmissions having significantly improved audio quality over existing, tethered systems.
UWB tags for Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) applications including vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-roadside communications, as well as unique applications such as the detection of problem (i.e., suspended license) drivers;
High accuracy UWB precision geolocation systems for 3-D location of materiel or personnel in both indoor and urban environments without the use of the Global Positioning System (GPS);
Collision and obstacle avoidance radars for helicopters, micro air vehicles, large mining equipment, etc. One specific example was the development of a UWB obstacle avoidance radar which could detect a small diameter power line a serious threat to helicopter air safety;
High precision altimeters for height above ground level determination in helicopters and other air platforms;
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LPI proximity fuses for "smart munitions" these are extremely precise radars which are very difficult to jam; and,
Intrusion detection radars for wide area surveillance, as well as "through-thewall" sensors for detection of personnel behind walls or other obstacles33.
Fantasma Networks Inc. Fantasma Networks was formed to provide solutions to eliminate the obstacles that prevent the sharing of content, connections, and peripherals in the home. While common data types including MPEG and HTML are seemingly driving the convergence of the PC and consumer electronics worlds, networking solutions haven't kept pace. Today's solutions were developed for corporate applications and do not address the unique performance or ease of use requirements necessary for widespread consumer adoption34.
In 1996, under the direction of G. Roberto Aiello, a project team began a best of breed technology approach to solving the entertainment-networking problem. Fantasma Networks became an independent organization in January 2000, with the charter to combine ultra-wideband (UWB) radio transmission technology,
33
Multispectral Solutions Inc, Perspectives on Ultra Wideband Technology, Available at http://www.darpa.mil/ipto/research/netex/presentations/Fontana.pdf (visited on 12/7/2001) 34 Fantasma Networks, Overview, News and Press Releases, Available at www.fantasma.net/content/news_content.shtml (visited on 02/02/2002)
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which is particularly well suited to short-range broadband networking, and a network architecture designed for consumer applications35.
In May 2001, Fantasma Networks was acquired by Pulse-Link Inc., another company innovating UWB technologies. All continued product development is occurring at Pulse-Link's offices in San Diego, California. In recognition of and respect for the outstanding work, commitment and accomplishments of the Fantasma team, Pulse-Link has chosen to continue identifying the UWB technology pioneered at Fantasma Networks under the Fantasma name36.
The Fantasma chipset provides reliable wireless video networking. Its siliconbased solutions combine a flexible networking protocol with ultra-wideband (UWB) radio technology to provide a simple yet powerful solution for distributing high quality video throughout the home. Designed from inception to meet consumers' high quality of service expectations, Fantasmas network architecture provides ease of installation and unmatched multi-stream reliability37
In 1996, the original Fantasma team set out to develop a system for distributing digital content, including high quality video, throughout homes, schools, and other indoor environments. This initial idea coupled with extensive user requirements research led to the current Fantasma technology platform
35 36
Fantasma Networks, Overview, News and Press Releases Fantasma Networks, Overview, News and Press Releases 37 Fantasma Networks, Overview, News and Press Releases
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consisting of an ultra-wideband (UWB) physical layer and a networking protocol ideal for entertainment based digital content38. Fantasma's UWB physical layer is the wireless link between networked devices. UWB was chosen for four key reasons: reliability, high throughput, ease of use and affordability. Fantasma's wireless network was able to achieve the most reliable wireless solution because its UWB implementation is robust to the effects of interference, multi-path fading and poor propagation frequently encountered with existing indoor solutions. Using pulse-amplitude modulation, Fantasma's 1st generation product will transmit data at 60Mbps, providing more than enough throughput to simultaneously transmit multiple video streams. Because this solution has been continuously developed with the end user in mind, ease of use and affordability have been consistent design constraints. For example, UWB systems have relatively fewer analog radio frequency components allowing more user benefits within the cost constraints of consumer price points39. The other essential part of Fantasma's solution is the networking protocol. Network protocols designed for data-centric traffic generally do not meet the requirements of networks transmitting digital audio and video content. These digital video networks require time synchronization for audio and video stream support, high-traffic network stability, and prioritization to ensure quality of service for the audio/video streams. Fantasmas network protocol specifically addresses issues such as uncontrolled deployment, a mixture of both time
38
Pulse-Link Inc., Ultra Wideband Technology, Available at www.pulselink.net/technology/default.htm (visited on 02/02/2002) 39 Pulse-Link Inc., Ultra Wideband Technology
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bounded (A/V) and bursty (data) traffic, support of a high continuous load, and the ability to negotiate traffic during transmission within a single channel, with minimized interruption or interference40.
Intel
Intel Architecture Labs (IAL) is currently researching UWB technology in order to better understand its benefits, limitations, and technical challenges when used for high-rate communications.
One of the important aspects in this case is the fact that the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is currently working on setting emissions limits that would allow UWB communication systems to be deployed on an unlicensed basis. This rule change would allow UWB-enabled devices to overlay existing narrowband systems, which is currently not allowed, and result in a much more efficient use of the available spectrum. Devices could, in essence, fill in the unused portions of the frequency spectrum in any particular location.
These recent developments by the FCC have given Intel a unique opportunity to develop equipment that could potentially take advantage of the vast amount of usable spectrum that exists in the wireless space, and that could provide an
40
Fantasma Networks, Overview, News and Press Releases
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engine to drive the future high-rate applications that are being conceived throughout this industry.
Intel has identified several areas that show the promise of UWB for use in highrate, short to medium-range communications. These include potential low-cost implementations, low-power consumption due to limits on transmit power spectral density, high output afforded by the wide occupied bandwidth, accurate position location that can be combined with communications capabilities, and favorable multi-path fading robustness due to the nature of the short impulse. However, there are still challenges in making this technology live up to its full potential. The regulatory process is still in motion. Intel is involved in helping the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) identify emission limits favorable to UltraWideband (UWB) systems that allow them to be competitive within the marketplace, while at the same time not allowing them to cause an unacceptable level of interference for other wireless services that happen to be sharing the same frequency band. The FCC regulations are just a first step in this process, and it is anticipated that standardization will be needed in the future to help make this technology ubiquitous in the consumer market41.
In addition, Intel has identified three main areas that are important for helping UWB make the best use of this newly available spectrum. First, as discussed previously, a reliable model is critical for helping to predict performance as well
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as for optimizing the physical design. In this regard, Intel is actively engaging the industry to help determine a reliable model that systems engineers can use to help study the performance of UWB systems. Second, Intel is investigating several receiver designs that will help to improve the robustness and long-term viability of this technology. This includes the ability to capture the significant amount of energy that will be present in the multiple reflections caused by the channel, and mechanisms for suppressing the narrowband interference that will typically be seen in this type of overlay environment. Finally, Intel is investigating the feasibility for high-level silicon integration in order to yield a very low-cost and low-power solution42.
41
Intel Technology Journal, Ultra Wideband Technology for Short or Medium Range Wireless Communications, Available at http://developer.intel.com/technology/itj/q22001/articles/art_4.htm (visited on 11/09/2001) 42 Intel Technology Journal, Ultra Wideband Technology for Short or Medium Range Wireless Communications
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4. Potential Markets and Applications
Potential Markets for Ultra Wideband Technology The potential markets for UWB can be broadly classified into three areas: Communications, Radar and Tracking. We will now be discussing each of these in a little more detail.
Communications UWB technology provides reliable high speed and high performance wireless networks transmitting megabits of information for many new wireless applications. UWB technology can support high data rate links at very low power levels. Communications products will benefit from Ultra Wideband Technologys excellent performance in multipath reflective environments (such as inside buildings and other highly cluttered areas), and high bandwidth, multi-channel performance. UWB communications applications include: in-building communications systems, indoor broadband cellular phones, private radios, and wireless broadband Internet access43. Some of the uses of Ultra Wideband Technology in communications are:
43
Time Domain Corporation, Applications of Ultra Wideband Technology, Available at www.ero.dk/EROWEB/SRD/UWB/Time%20Domain/Tech%20Overview%20400-0001%20A.pdf (visited on 10/13/2001)
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A Smart Home environment providing mobile connectivity for all fixed and mobile "smart home" appliances such as computers, security systems, PDA's and gaming, and televisions and stereos. Home systems can be provided with high bandwidth, low power links.
Wireless Networks supplying short- range indoor data and video communications without multipath interference.
Indoor Wireless Communications transmitting voice, data, and video -not susceptible to multipath and not impairing the performance of existing devices.
Rural Access Systems supplying wireless self-configuring networks that bring voice and data direct to users in remote areas44.
Radar
Ultra Wideband technology enables high performance, high-resolution radar systems. Radars using UWB technology can be range gated, have excellent clutter rejection, possess the highest resolution at the lowest possible frequency, attain excellent penetration results, and can function as both imagers and motion sensors. Unlike today's infrared and Doppler radars, UWB security sensors cannot be evaded - even a stealthy target would be detected! Radar applications
44
Time Domain Corporation, Applications of Ultra Wideband Technology
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of UWB technology include: through-wall sensing radar, security systems tracking movement, collision avoidance sensors for cars and boats, industrial robotic controls and advanced highway construction and inspection equipment45.
Some of the uses of Ultra Wideband Technology in this area are:
Intelligent Security Zones determining the size and shape of objects penetrating the UWB security bubble
Through Wall Sensing to detect motion and provide vital, potentially life saving information to security and public safety personnel
Underground Imaging to reveal the location and potentially, the soil conditions near surface objects
Automotive Sensors to provide proximity sensing to reduce collisions and to sense the position of passengers to enable the precise timing and deployment of an air bag46.
Tracking
45 46
Time Domain Corporation, Applications of Ultra Wideband Technology Time Domain Corporation, Applications of Ultra Wideband Technology
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Ultra Wideband Technology's use of an ultra precise positioning system can provide seamless indoor and outdoor tracking for many applications. Devices using UWB technology fuse tracking and communications into a single device and can measure both distance and position with an accurate positioning range of less than one inch. The technology's advanced time resolution and the pulse nature of the transmitted signal result in exceptional multipath resistance. Examples of UWB precision tracking applications include: personnel and asset tracking for increased safety and security, location-based content delivery systems, and mobility-based commerce capabilities47.
Ultra Wideband Technology uses in real time tracking are:
Locator Beacons aiding Emergency 911 services and tracking mobile inventory with highly accurate 3-D asset tracking.
Indoor Tracking and Communication with children, elderly, co-workers and fire and rescue teams.
Precision Navigation devices improving the safety and performance of vehicles and agricultural and industrial equipment.
Precision Location devices supporting public safety, military and rescue teams.
47
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Ranging Instruments determining precise distances between objects for precision surveying and measurement48.
Applications of Ultra Wideband Technology The following are some examples of products that use Ultra Wideband Technology and its various applications.
Exhibit 2: Applications of UWB Technology Communications Applications

Ultra Wideband Handheld Transceiver Radio for non line-of-sight communications Radio for Digital Voice and Data Compressed Video Radio Ultra Wideband Tag and Tag Reader UWB Transceivers UWB Wireless Intercom Communications System UWB Tactical Ad Hoc Wireless Networks UWB Precision Geolocation Communication Transceiver
Radar Applications
Hummingbird UWB Altimeter and Collision Avoidance Sensor UWB Backup Sensor UWB Electronic License Plate X-Band UWB Fuse Sensor UWB Through-The- Wall Intrusion Sensor Radar Collision Avoidance
Ultra Wideband Handheld Transceiver - This was designed for full duplex voice and data transmission at rates of up to 128 kb/s (CVSD) and 115.2 kb/s (RS232). The radio has an operational center frequency in L-band (1.5 GHz) with
48
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an instantaneous bandwidth of 400 MHz (27% fractional BW). Peak power output from the UWB transceiver was measured at 2.0 Watts, with a resultant average power (worst case) of 640 mW. This results in a worst-case power density of 1.6 pW/Hz. These units have a range of approximately 1 to 2 km (with small antennas shown and line-of-sight), and an extended range of 10 to 20 miles with small gain antennas49.
Radio for non line-of-sight communications This radio was designed for non line-of-sight communications utilizing surface or ground wave propagation. To excite such propagation modes, the frequency of operation needs to be well below 100 MHz. Thus, this system was designed to operate in the frequency band from 30 to 50 MHz (50% fractional BW) and utilized a peak power output of approximately 35 Watts50.
Radio for Digital Voice and Data - this radio is capable of both digital voice and data transmission to 128 kb/s and had an operational range over water of approximately 10 miles using a standard SINCGARS (30-88 MHz) VHF military antenna. Operational range over land depended upon terrain, but was observed to be from 1 to 5 miles with intervening foliage, buildings and hills. [Multipath cancellation is a serious problem over water, even with UWB impulse technology,
49
Robert Fontana, Multispectral Solutions Recent Applications of Ultra Wideband Radar and Communications Systems, Available at http://www.multispectral.com/pdf/UWBApplications.pdf (visited on 02/22/2002)
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because of the typically low grazing angles (resulting in small differential delays between direct and reflected paths) and strong, out-of- phase reflection from the water surface]. Also unique to the receiver design is the addition of anti-jam circuitry to prevent loss of sensitivity due to strong, in-band interferers commonly observed in this frequency range51.
Compressed Video Radio This is a high-speed (up to 25 Mb/s) UWB radio designed for transmission of compressed video and command & control information across an asymmetric, bi-directional link. This system was also designed to operate in the 1.3 to 1.7 GHz region (27% fractional BW) with a 4W peak power output. An earlier design, developed under funding from the U.S. Defense Advanced research Projects Agency (DARPA), operated with a 500 MHz instantaneous bandwidth in the C-band region (5.4 to 5.9 GHz). The ultimate goal of this design is to provide for up to 60 nautical miles, line-of-sight transmission to/from an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). A small parabolic dish antenna was used at the ground platform52.
Ultra Wideband Tag & Tag Reader - This system, dubbed Vehicular Electronic Tagging and Alert System (VETAS), was designed for the U.S. Department of Transportation to provide a means for keeping problem drivers (i.e., drivers who have repeated been convicted of traffic accidents or violations due to driving
50
Robert Fontana, Multispectral Solutions Recent Applications of Ultra Wideband Radar and Communications Systems 51 Ibid 52 Ibid
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while under the influence of alcohol) off the road. The concept was to tag the vehicle with a device, which relays a picture of the driver, together with information on the driver and the vehicle, to a roadside sensor in a police vehicle. The tag would be installed in lieu of impounding the vehicle or placing the convicted driver in jail. Ultra wideband technology was considered for this application because of its ability to transmit large amounts of data at high speed in a mobile, multipath-prone environment. The UWB tag operated in the L-band region (1.4 to 1.65 GHz) and had a peak output power of approximately 250 mW for a demonstrated range of over 300 meters. The image of the driver was stored as a compressed JPEG file, together with additional ASCII data, in EEPROM and periodically transmitted at a 400 kb/s burst rate to a UWB receiver with display. The tag operated off of two AAA batteries (3.0V) and, in an operational scenario, was mounted behind the front grill of the automobile53.
UWB transceivers These were designed for the U.S. Navy to provide a wireless intercom capability on-board Navy aircraft. The prototype UWB transceivers provide multichannel, full duplex, 32 kb/s digital voice over a range of approximately 100 meters. An ultra wideband waveform was selected because of its ability to operate in severe multipath (created by multiple RF reflections inside and around aircraft), and because of its non-interfering, low probability of intercept signature54.
53
Robert Fontana, Multispectral Solutions Recent Applications of Ultra Wideband Radar and Communications Systems 54 Robert Fontana, Multispectral Solutions Recent Applications of Ultra Wideband Radar and Communications Systems
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UWB Wireless Intercom Communications System (WICS) Current intercommunications systems (ICS) designs for aircraft utilize lengthy, and often unwieldy, cords to physically attach the crewmans headset to a distributed audio (intercom) system. Such physical attachment presents a safety hazard to personnel, impedes movement throughout the platform and reduces mission effectiveness. Replacement of these mechanical tethers with wireless RF links is a desirable alternative. Frequency of operation for the WICS transceivers is again in the L-band region (1.2 to 1.8 GHz). One of the unique features of the WICS design is the use of a frequency division multiplex, time division multiple access (FDM/TDMA) strategy for full duplex, multi-user operation. Because of the extremely short duration pulsewidths and resulting low energy densities, UWB systems are much less vulnerable to intercept and attack than conventional RF communications systems. As a consequence, they also minimize interference with other on-board electronics, such as sensitive flight control systems, GPS, etc. With an extremely low duty cycle, a very low power drain can be achieved, thereby providing communications capability for mission life exceeding 12 hours. The WICS program has recently received additional funding to further improve and miniaturize the design55.
55
Robert Fontana, Multispectral Solutions Recent Applications of Ultra Wideband Radar and Communications Systems
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UWB Tactical Ad Hoc Wireless Networks - One of the most recent applications of UWB communications technology is to the development of highly mobile, multi-node, ad hoc wireless communications networks. Such a system is currently under development for the U.S. Department of Defense. The system is designed to provide a secure, low probability of intercept and detection. The UWB ad hoc wireless network has the capability to support encrypted voice/data (to 128 kb/s) and high-speed video (1.544 Mb/s T1) transmissions56.
A parallel effort, currently funded by the Office of Naval Research under a Dual Use Science and Technology (DUS&T) effort is developing a state-of-the-art, mobile ad hoc network (MANET) based upon an Internet Protocol (IP) suite to provide a connectionless, multihop, packet switching solution for survivable communications in a high link failure environment. The thrust of the DUS&T effort is toward commercialization of UWB technology for applications to high-speed (20+ Mb/s) wireless applications for the home and business57.
UWB Precision Geolocation System Transceiver - A UWB application that bridges the gap between communications and radar is that of precision geolocation. There is a system designed to provide 3-dimensional location information utilizing a set of untethered UWB beacons and an untethered, mobile UWB rover. Precision location is derived from round trip, time-of-flight
56 57
Ibid Ibid
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measurements using packet burst transmissions from the UWB rover and beacon transponders. This system utilizes 2.5 ns, 4-Watt peak, and UWB pulse, again operating in the 1.3 to 1.7 GHz region. Line-of-sight range for the system is better than 2 kilometers utilizing small, omni directional vertically polarized (smaller) or circularly polarized (larger) antennas. Within a building, the range becomes limited by wall and obstacle attenuation; however, ranges exceeding 100 meters inside have been attained. A unique feature of the system is the ability to detect the pulse leading edge through the use of a charge sensitive, tunnel diode detector. Leading edge detection is critical to the resolution of the direct path from the plethora of multipath returns produced from internal reflections58.
The UWB geolocation system was originally developed to permit a soldier to determine his or her position to within 1-foot resolution in an urban environment. It is currently being used to augment a video capture system for 3-D modeling, and for materiel location onboard a Navy ship59.
Hummingbird UWB Altimeter and Collision Avoidance Sensor This is an ultra wideband system designed as a precision altimeter and obstacle/collision avoidance sensor. Originally developed for the U.S. Marine Corps' Hummingbird unmanned aerial vehicle, the sensor has proved capable of detecting small
58
Robert Fontana, Multispectral Solutions Recent Applications of Ultra Wideband Radar and Communications Systems
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diameter (0.25" or 6.35 mm) suspended wires to ranges beyond 250 feet. With a peak output power of only 0.2 Watts, the system operates in the C-band region from 5.4 to 5.9 GHz (8.9% fractional BW) and has an average output power at 10 kpps of less than 4 mW. Range resolution of the radar was better than one foot utilizing the leading edge detection capability60.
For the Hummingbird application, the system incorporated a linear forwardlooking phased array, and broad beamwidth side-looking antennas, for use in autonomous control. Interestingly, a predecessor of Hummingbird was developed for the U.S. Naval Air Systems Command as a multifunction precision altimeter, collision avoidance sensor and low data rate communications system. A 1-Watt version of the radar operated as a precision (1 foot resolution) radar altimeter to an altitude of better than 5000 feet. Several variants of the Hummingbird radar have also been developed61. .
UWB Backup Sensor - Operating with approximately 250 MW peak in the Cband region from 5.4 to 5.9 GHz, the backup sensor utilizes a dual antenna configuration for the detection of objects as close as 1 foot to beyond 350 feet from the vehicle. Ultra wideband provides a significant advantage for this application because of the ability to provide precision range gating to eliminate
59 60
Ibid Robert Fontana, Multispectral Solutions Recent Applications of Ultra Wideband Radar and Communications Systems 61 Ibid
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clutter, which, with conventional Doppler-based sensors, often results in large false alarm rates. This sensor was developed for the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health62.
UWB Electronic License Plate - Another variant of the Hummingbird collision avoidance sensor was developed as part of an electronic license plate for the U.S. National Academy of Sciences' Transportation Research Board The UWB Electronic License Plate provides a dual function capability for both automobile collision avoidance and RF tagging for vehicle to roadside communications. Collision avoidance functions are achieved with a miniature, 500 MHz bandwidth C-band UWB radar; and RF tagging functions are accomplished with a low power, 250 MHz bandwidth L-band system63.
The UWB C-band radar utilized a 0.2W peak power (4 mW average) waveform to achieve a range of better than 100 feet against other vehicles, with an accuracy of better than 1 foot. The L-band tag operated with a 0.3W peak power (500 mW average) packet burst transmission to achieve a data throughput of 128 kb/s over a range exceeding 800 feet. An ultra wideband solution was chosen for the Electronic License Plate because of its precision ranging capability (radar mode) and high multipath immunity (tag mode)64.
62
Robert Fontana, Multispectral Solutions Recent Applications of Ultra Wideband Radar and Communications Systems 63 Robert Fontana, Multispectral Solutions Recent Applications of Ultra Wideband Radar and Communications Systems 64 Ibid
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X-band UWB Fuse Sensor - This prototype sensor was developed for the U.S. Army Missile Command as a low probability of intercept and detection (LPI/D), anti-jam, radar proximity sensor for medium caliber, small caliber and submunition applications. The system exhibited an operational bandwidth of 2.5 GHz with a 10 GHz center frequency. Specifically designed for very short-range applications (less than 6 feet), the UWB sensor has a 6-inch range resolution65.
UWB Through-the-wall Intrusion Sensor This is a UWB intrusion sensor radar, which was designed for through-thewall penetration. With an L-band operational frequency and 33% fractional bandwidth, this system utilizes a 1-Watt peak UWB waveform to detect personnel through several intervening walls. Broad area surveillance coverage was provided for both in-building and outdoor field environments. An extended range system was also developed to detect and track human targets at distances exceeding 1000 feet66.
Radar Collision Avoidance - To suit radar, collision avoidance, and potentially synthetic vision, requirements in flight, the same types of impulses can be used to accurately measure scattered components in an environment better than conventional radar. UWB technology has been used for decades for ground-
65
Robert Fontana, Multispectral Solutions Recent Applications of Ultra Wideband Radar and Communications Systems 66 Robert Fontana, Multispectral Solutions Recent Applications of Ultra Wideband Radar and Communications Systems
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penetrating radar, and one company is even able to locate striations of gold 20 feet into rock. Dolphins naturally emit echolocation impulses similar to UWB waveforms to navigate in unclear waters, and have even located a meal buried a several feet under a sandy sea bottom. UWB radar also has the capability to range gate impulse returns, enabling them to ignore returns from close objects (like a wall, boulder, etc) and effectively see through these objects to image the environment on the other side67. UWB collision avoidance systems have already been employed in support of DARPAs Micro Air Vehicle (MAV) program, at least one company demonstrating a capability for an autonomous flying vehicle to detect and avoid objects as small as a 0.25 wire in the flight path. This technology could be enhanced to provide an autonomous flight vehicle with this capability, as well as a real-time synthetic view of the environment in any direction, and avoidance of other vehicles in flight. With additional special processing, such a system could be used in conjunction with the intercraft positioning processing to synchronize formation or cluster flight arrangements68.
67
Robert Fontana, Multispectral Solutions Recent Applications of Ultra Wideband Radar and Communications Systems 68 Ibid
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5. Ultra Wideband Technology and Policy
DARPAs Assessment of Ultra Wideband Technology The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) and the Office of the Secretary of Defense set up a committee to review UWB technologies and applications. They convened the Ultra Wideband Radar Review Panel to examine state of the art and potential performance benefits and limitations of UWB, with particular focus on radar applications. The panel was also charged with identifying and prioritizing UWB research to be pursued and exploited. The panel worked mainly on radar applications of Ultra Wideband Technology.
The panel found that essentially all the interest and claims for the versatility and usefulness of UWB radars was in the area of impulse radar implementation, which generates its radiated energy through applying a very short pulse to the antenna. The interest in these types of radars has centered on claims involving counter stealth, Low Probability of Intercept (LPI) and detection of relocatable targets in camouflage and foliage. There has also been some controversy about whether standard analytical tools were either inappropriate or inadequate to deal with impulse radar issues69.
69
Charles Fowler, John Entzminger, James Corum, DARPA- Assessment of Ultra Wideband Technology A Report, Available at http://umunhum.stanford.edu/~morf/ss/ss/UWB_CDROM_1/PAPERS/REPORT.PDF ( visited on 10/3/2001)
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The panel found that claims on the uniqueness of the properties and performance capabilities of impulse radars were overrated and in some respects, false. The panel did not find much theoretical or experimental evidence at frequencies or operating ranges of any interest to the military. But the panel also found that there were a lot of applications where the combination of high resolution and low frequency is desirable, most notably, terrain profiling and earth penetration as well as foliage penetration and low surveillance. The panel indicated that these applications should be pursued in greater detail. The panel suggested that impulse radar probably represents the most cost effective solution for terrain profiling and ground probing activities70.
The panel concluded that in terms of counter stealth, the impulse radar is not inherently anti-stealth and it does not have any unique advantages in this respect. Also, the panel observed that impulse radar has no special LPI characteristics and is easily detectable by an appropriately designed intercept receiver. The panel also concluded that all the applications presented could be implemented by alternative non-impulse techniques and there was no application on which only impulse radar could work. It also concluded that available analysis tools were completely adequate and appropriate for dealing rigorously with impulse radar performance71.
But the panel also made the following recommendations; -
70 71
Ibid Ibid
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It recommended that the Department of Defense analyses of point designs for four UWB radar applications that seem to have important military implications A short range system for detecting moving target behind walls or foliage A short range airborne imaging radar for detecting military targets under canopy or in wooded terrain A medium range air defense radar for detection identification of airborne targets including helicopters in the tree line A medium range radar for detection of sea skimming missiles in fleet defense applications72
The panel also recommended that the Department of Defense fund two other studies relevant to UWB to help the point analyses A review and analysis of the clutter behavior of UWB radar systems An analysis that characterizes the range and angle pattern of UWB linear and planer antenna rays73
Thus, in conclusion, though the panel did not see any significant scientific breakthrough for military applications with UWB, it did feel that the technology
72
Charles Fowler, John Entzminger, James Corum, DARPA- Assessment of Ultra Wideband Technology A Report 73 Charles Fowler, John Entzminger, James Corum, DARPA- Assessment of Ultra Wideband Technology A Report
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was interesting and should be pursued, as it could be efficient and cost effective in the long run74.
FAAs Issues with Ultra Wideband Technology The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has been involved in an issue regarding ultra-wideband technology. The UWB systems of interest at the present time are generally those systems that are low-powered and use very narrow pulses or impulses that generate a very wide bandwidth, greater than 25% of the center frequency. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is modifying their Part 15 rules for unlicensed, low-powered devices, which would allow UWB devices to be operated across radio spectrum that is used for international civil aviation safety-related systems75.
In its memorandum to its members, the FAA states that the proponents of UWB technology believe that this technology could have enormous benefits for public safety, consumers and businesses. Furthermore, UWB technology could create new business opportunities for manufacturers, distributors and vendors that will enhance market competition and enhance the economy. It is believed that UWB technology may enable increased use of scarce spectrum resources when sharing among conventional narrowband technology is not feasible. It is claimed
74 75
Ibid RTCA Special Committee, Ultra Wideband Technology Radio Frequency Interference Effects to GPS and Interference Scenario Development Available at http://ostpxweb.dot.gov/policy/gps/interim1.pdf (visited on 02/19/2002)
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that UWB communication devices will be able to transmit very high data rates over short distances without being affected by multi-path interference. The UWB radar imaging devices may have application in the automotive industry, for example for collision avoidance and air bag deployment. Public safety personnel could use the devices to see through walls in hostage situations or to locate people trapped by fire. Field disturbance devices can be used for security. Ground-penetrating radar can be used to detect faults in a roadbed. The application will dictate where a UWB device operates in the spectrum76.
The FAA also states that the impact of UWB systems on aeronautical systems is not well understood at this time. The NTIA has completed two studies - one is on spectral characteristics of UWB signals, and the other is on the compatibility between UWB devices and selected federal systems. The results of the latter report reveal that depending on signal structure, separation distance, and height of the UWB device, UWB devices can interfere with various aeronautical systems. For the scenarios evaluated, the non-GNSS aeronautical systems that could be affected are distance measuring equipment (DME), air traffic control radar beacon system, air route surveillance radars, airport surveillance radar, microwave landing system, terminal Doppler weather radar, and search and rescue satellite land user terminals. NTIA released its report on GPS, however it did not include results for a civil aviation GPS receiver for en-route and nonprecision approaches. That GPS receiver will be included in an addendum to the
76
Aviation Week, International Civil Aviation Authority Ultra Wideband Technology Available at http://www.aviationnow.com/content/publication/b_ca/bca.htm (visited on 02/19/2002)
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report later. The preliminary results from the NTIA GPS report shows that UWB overlay with GPS will be challenging and require UWB signal structure dependent regulations and restrictions to ensure compatibility. Preliminary analyses and tests by the DOT have shown that interference to GPS receivers can occur from even a single UWB device. The DOT has also published a report on GPS receivers including an aeronautical receiver for precision approaches and landings. Preliminary results of these tests are similar to the results obtained by NTIA77.
The private sector has also performed GPS/UWB tests. The raw data from the tests are still being evaluated. The FCC states that it will also consider these results. The draft question calls for a study of the characteristics of UWB technology and to assess the impact it may have on civil aviation. The FAA further states that all member organizations should be aware of this new technology and take appropriate action to ensure that aviation safety is not jeopardized if UWB is implemented78.
FCCs View on Ultra Wideband Technology On May 10, 2000, the Commission adopted a proposal to consider permitting the operation of ultra-wideband (UWB) technology on an unlicensed basis. The FCC believed that UWB devices appeared to be able to operate on spectrum already
77 78
Aviation Week, International Civil Aviation Authority Ultra Wideband Technology Aviation Week, International Civil Aviation Authority Ultra Wideband Technology
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occupied by existing radio services without causing interference. Thus, it could permit scarce spectrum resources to be used more efficiently, a core responsibility of the Commission in its role as the nations spectrum manager.
The FCC did understand and appreciate the useful implications of the use of UWB. In their report, they stated that recent advances in UWB technology have resulted in its potential use for a variety of applications such as radar imaging of objects buried under the ground or behind walls or hidden flaws in airport runways or highways and short-range, high-speed data transmissions suitable for broadband access to the Internet. Other radar systems could be used as fluid level sensors in difficult-to-measure situations such as oil refinery tanks and other storage tanks. UWB communications devices can also be used by police, fire and rescue personnel to provide covert secure communications and to detect people hidden behind walls or covered with debris, such as from an earthquake. UWB devices can be used for a variety of communications applications involving the transmission of very high data rates over short distances without interference. Such devices can be used to distribute wirelessly services such as phone, cable and computer networking throughout a building or home79.
In its consideration of proposals for the authorization of UWB technology, the Commission has committed to ensuring that safety services, such as the Global Positioning System (GPS), are protected against harmful interference. To ensure
79
Communications Convergence.com, FCC Consideration of Ultra Wideband Technology, Available at http://www.cconvergence.com/article/COM20020215S0001 (visited on 10/03/2001)
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this protection, the Commission noted that further testing and analysis would be needed before UWB technology could be authorized to operate in the bands used for these services. The Commission stressed, in particular, the need for further testing and analysis in bands below 2 GHz. It said such testing is already being planned by a number of organizations, including the Department of Transportation and the National Telecommunications Information Administration. The Commission noted that it would provide ample opportunity to complete these tests and ensure that the analysis of the test results are submitted in the record for public comment before adopting any final rules80.
More recently, the FCC just voted on and passed an authorization to remove the cap on the amount of spectrum owned by any particular service or carrier. This would probably be another step in the direction of allowing the widespread use of Ultra Wideband technology.
80
Ibid
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6. Regulatory Policy for Ultra Wideband Technology
The existing rules for unlicensed devices were developed for devices using conventional narrowband technology and did not address UWB devices. Paragraph 15.209 of Volume 47 of the Code of Federal Regulations establishes the rules for the radiated emission limits of devices that can be authorized as unlicensed intentional radiators. Intentional radiating unlicensed devices are not permitted to transmit signals in any of the 64 restricted bands, which occupy a total of 13.283 GHz of the spectrum between 90 kHz and 36.5 GHz, because of potentially harmful effects to critical radio services operating in them. Although UWB device output powers are often low enough to operate under these regulations, their bandwidths are so wide that most emit portions of their signal within the restricted bands. Moreover, operation of many proposed UWB devices under current Part 15 rules was made difficult because they used to seek to operate with much higher peak powers than the rules permitted. Revision of the current rules was required before UWB devices, as must be the case with any new system or technology, whether licensed or unlicensed, could be accommodated compatibly with existing systems in the electromagnetic environment81.
81
Spectrum Management Program, Regulations for use of Ultra Wideband Technology, Available at http://cio.doe.gov/spectrum/UWBregs.htm (visited on 02/15/2002)
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NTIA and the FCC are working closely with both the UWB community and the operators of conventional radio communication equipment they authorize and license, to identify under what conditions UWB devices can operate without causing unacceptable interference to authorized and licensed radio services. To this end, the FCC initiated a formal proceeding that has included a Notice of Inquiry to gather information from the interested parties on UWB devices and their potential impact on conventional devices and a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to examine proposed rules for the regulation of UWB devices. NTIA, meanwhile, has conducted a series of measurements and analyses for characterizing and assessing the impact of UWB devices on selected Federal equipment operating between 400 and 6000 MHz, which includes 18 bands and a total of 2502.7 MHz of restricted spectrum. The results include practical methods for characterizing UWB systems and providing the information needed to estimate or measure their potential to interfere with existing radio communications or sensing systems82.
This report shows that operation of UWB devices is feasible in portions of the spectrum between about 3.1 and 5.650 GHz at heights of about 2 meters with some operating constraints. UWB operations at greater heights between 3.1 and 5.650 GHz and near low elevation angle 4 GHz FSS earth stations may have to be constrained with respect to such factors as spectral output power, amount of operating time, and quantity of units operating in any area. Operations of UWB devices below 3.1 GHz will be quite challenging and any policy developed
82
Spectrum Management Program, Regulations for use of Ultra Wideband Technology Page 56 5/23/02
Deepali Iyengar
needed to consider the results of the analyses of interactions of GPS and UWB systems underway at NTIA and other facilities. While the study showed that aggregate UWB interference could be a significant factor to receiving systems under ideal propagation conditions, a number of mitigating factors were also to be taken into account to reduce or eliminate these aggregate affects83.
Any radio frequency use must be authorized by either the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) or the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) prior to operation. NTIA regulation for determining whether a radio station is under the control of the Federal Government, and thus must be authorized by NTIA, is contained in Section 8.2.17 of the NTIA Manual of Regulations and Procedures for Federal Radio Frequency Management (NTIA Manual). NTIA regulations require that Federal agencies first obtain approval for major spectrum systems from NTIA, prior to submitting a request to the Frequency Assignment Subcommittee (FAS)84. On February 14, 2002, the Federal Communication Commission (FCC) adopted a First Report and Order that permitted the marketing and operation of certain types of new products incorporating ultra-wideband technology. They claimed that UWB technology holds great promise for a vast array of new applications that have the potential to provide significant benefits for public safety, businesses and consumers in a variety of applications such as radar imaging of objects
83 84
Spectrum Management Program, Regulations for use of Ultra Wideband Technology Ibid
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buried under the ground or behind walls and short-range, high-speed data transmissions85. They also stated that, with appropriate technical standards, UWB devices could operate using spectrum occupied by existing radio services without causing interference, thereby permitting scarce spectrum resources to be used more efficiently. This First Report and Order included standards designed to ensure that existing and planned radio services, particularly safety services, are adequately protected. The FCC stated that it would act vigorously to enforce the rules and act quickly on any reports of interference86. The standards adopted represent a cautious first step with UWB technology. These standards are based in large measure on standards that the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) believes are necessary to protect against interference to vital federal government operations. Since there is no production UWB equipment available and there is little operational experience with the impact of UWB on other radio services, the Commission chose in this First Report and Order to err on the side of conservatism in setting emission limits when there were unresolved interference issues. The Commission intends within the next six to twelve months to review the standards for UWB devices and issue a further notice of proposed rule
85
Federal Communications Commission, New Public Safety Applications And Broadband Internet Access Among Uses Envisioned By FCC Authorization Of Ultra-Wideband Technology Available at http://www.fcc.gov/Bureaus/Engineering_Technology/News_Releases/2002/nret0203.html (visited on 02/15/2002)
86
Ibid
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making to explore more flexible standards and address the operation of additional types of UWB operations and technology87.
Imaging Systems: Provides for the operation of Ground Penetrating Radar Systems (GPRs) and other imaging devices under Part 15 of the Commissions rules subject to certain frequency and power limitations. The operators of imaging devices must be eligible for licensing under Part 90 of FCC rules, except that medical imaging devices may be operated by a licensed health care practitioner. At the request of NTIA, the FCC will notify or coordinate with NTIA prior to the operation of all imaging systems88. Imaging systems include:
o
Ground Penetrating Radar Systems: GPRs must be operated below 960 MHz or in the frequency band 3.1-10.6 GHz. GPRs operate only when in contact with or within close proximity of, the ground for the purpose of detecting or obtaining the images of buried objects. The energy from the GPR is intentionally directed down into the ground for this purpose. Operation is restricted to law enforcement, fire and rescue organizations, to scientific research institutions, to commercial mining companies, and to construction companies89.
87 88
Ibid Federal Communications Commission, New Public Safety Applications And Broadband Internet Access Among Uses Envisioned By FCC Authorization Of Ultra-Wideband Technology 89 Ibid
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Understanding Ultra Wideband Technology: Advantages, Applications and Regulatory Policy Master of Arts in Law and Diplomacy Thesis o
Wall Imaging Systems: Wall-imaging systems must be operated below 960 MHz or in the frequency band 3.1-10.6 GHz. Wallimaging systems are designed to detect the location of objects contained within a wall, such as a concrete structure, the side of a bridge, or the wall of a mine. Operation is restricted to law enforcement, fire and rescue organizations, to scientific research institutions, to commercial mining companies, and to construction companies90.
Through-wall Imaging Systems: These systems must be operated below 960 MHz or in the frequency band 1.99-10.6 GHz. Throughwall imaging systems detect the location or movement of persons or objects that are located on the other side of a structure such as a wall. Operation is limited to law enforcement, fire and rescue organizations91.
Medical Systems: These devices must be operated in the frequency band 3.1-10.6 GHz. A medical imaging system may be used for a variety of health applications to see inside the body of a person or animal. Operation must be at the direction of, or under the supervision of, a licensed health care practitioner92.
Surveillance Systems: Although technically these devices are not imaging systems, for regulatory purposes they will be treated in the
90 91
Ibid Ibid
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same way as through-wall imaging and will be permitted to operate in the frequency band 1.99-10.6 GHz. Surveillance systems operate as security fences by establishing a stationary RF perimeter field and detecting the intrusion of persons or objects in that field. Operation is limited to law enforcement, fire and rescue organizations, to public utilities and to industrial entities93.
Vehicular Radar Systems: Provides for the operation of vehicular radar systems in the 24 GHz band using directional antennas on terrestrial transportation vehicles provided the center frequency of the emission and the frequency at which the highest radiated emission occurs are greater than 24.075 GHz. These devices are able to detect the location and movement of objects near a vehicle, enabling features such as near collision avoidance, improved airbag activation, and suspension systems that better respond to road conditions94.
Communications and Measurement Systems: Provides for use of a wide variety of other UWB devices, such as high-speed home and business networking devices as well as storage tank measurement devices under Part 15 of the Commissions rules subject to certain frequency and power limitations. The devices must operate in the frequency band 3.1-10.6 GHz. The equipment must be designed to ensure that operation can only occur
92 93
Ibid Ibid 94 Federal Communications Commission, New Public Safety Applications And Broadband Internet Access Among Uses Envisioned By FCC Authorization Of Ultra-Wideband Technology
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indoors or it must consist of hand-held devices that may be employed for such activities as peer-to-peer operation95.
Impact of the new FCC guidelines The First Report and Order that the Federal Communication Commission (FCC) adopted on February 14, 2002 was given a lot of attention in the media and all the major players in the industry welcomed it and heralded it as the first significant step in the process of establishing guidelines for the operation of Ultra Wideband technology. But industry sources have revealed that this decision by the FCC is actually a blow to the Ultra Wideband industry as the FCC has given them a very limited range of bandwidth within which they have to operate their devices. In this bandwidth, they can mainly operate devices that function within buildings or closed spaces. This puts them in competition with Blue Tooth, which is a more viable technology for this kind of operation. Moreover, it does not allow them to commercialize other applications of Ultra Wideband like tracking that need a larger spread of bandwidth. The author believes that this restriction of bandwidth frequency for Ultra Wideband is due to the pressure put on the FCC by the Federal Aviation Authority and the Department of Defense, both of whom are very strong players, especially in todays world scenario. The FCC is also not planning to review its decision about expanding the range of frequency for UWB
95
Ibid
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for some time. Thus, the commercialization of UWB in the United States may not be possible for some time to come.
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7. Conclusions Ultra Wideband technology is a new technology that shows a lot of promise as it overlaps existing spectrum and thereby, makes better use of it. There are several companies involved in the development of this technology and they have identified numerous interesting applications for it, some of which have already been tested and proven extremely effective. The major hurdle that UWB faces before its widespread application is accepted, is the fact that Ultra Wideband overlaps over other existing bands of spectrum including some military and aviation frequencies. This may cause interference with other networks and thereby disrupt their operations. The propagators of UWB claim that this interference has been minimized by the creation of new transmitters/receivers for the radio frequency. But the FCC is not as convinced about those results and gave an approval for UWB operations mainly in the frequency band 3.1-10.6 GHz. This does not give UWB companies much scope for commercializing their main innovations in the United States. Since UWB is such a new and revolutionary technology, there are bound to be objections to it, especially in markets that are so highly developed and which operate under very strict guidelines, like the United States. It would therefore, be more beneficial for the current players in the UWB market to look at other countries where the telecommunications infrastructure is not as well developed as here. Developing countries offer the greatest opportunities as they are in the
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process of setting up their telecom systems and would greatly benefit from this type of technology as they directly incorporate it into their networks without making too many changes in their spectrum allocation policies. The companies dealing with UWB would benefit as well as they would have a testing ground for their technology that is relatively free from restrictions. Once they have proven themselves and their products, they might be able to get better acceptance within advanced countries. It is a more roundabout route, but one that has more of a chance of success. Several developing countries as well as Japan have already expressed interest in trying out commercialization of Ultra Wideband. This is an opportunity that should be considered very seriously.
The gamut of operations of telecommunications is very vast and is growing all the time. New technologies are constantly entering the fray and their viability and acceptance depends on their compatibility with other systems and the benefits derived from them. Ultra Wideband still has to demonstrate this. This is the reason why there are so many challenges to the acceptance of this technology in spite of its demonstrated benefits. But this should hopefully change over time and the world can look forward to another revolutionary technology that will give great benefits to industry as well as society as a whole.
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Exhibit1
100 kHz
10 MHz
1 GHz
700 MHz
4 GHz
Emission Bandwidth for One Type of UWB Transmitter
National Telecommunications & Information Administration
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References
Aetherwire. Com, What is Ultra Wideband Technology May 2000. Available at www.aetherwire.com/CDROM/Welcome.html (Visited on October 3, 2001) Aviation Week, International Civil Aviation Authority Ultra Wideband Technology Available at http://www.aviationnow.com/content/publication/b_ca/bca.htm (visited on 02/19/2002) Communications Convergence.com, FCC Consideration of Ultra Wideband Technology, Available at http://www.cconvergence.com/article/COM20020215S0001 (visited on 10/03/2001) Fantasma Networks, Ultra Wideband: An Emerging Technology for Wireless Communications G Roberto Aiello, Minnie Ho, Jim Lovette. Available at www.fantasma.net (visited on February 26, 2002) Federal Communications Commission, New Public Safety Applications And Broadband Internet Access Among Uses Envisioned By FCC Authorization Of Ultra-Wideband Technology Available at http://www.fcc.gov/Bureaus/Engineering_Technology/News_Releases/2002/nret0203.html (visited on 02/15/2002) Fontana Robert, Recent Applications of Ultra Wideband Radar and Communications Systems, Available at http://www.multispectral.com/pdf/UWBApplications.pdf (visited on 02/22/2002) Fowler Charles, John Entzminger, James Corum, DARPA- Assessment of Ultra Wideband Technology A Report, Available at http://umunhum.stanford.edu/~morf/ss/ss/UWB_CDROM_1/PAPERS/REPORT.PDF ( visited on 10/3/20001) Intel Technology Journal, Ultra Wideband Technology for Short or Medium Range Wireless Communications, Available at http://developer.intel.com/technology/itj/q22001/articles/art_4.htm (visited on 11/09/2001) Mobileinfo.com, US West takes stake in Time Domain to explore Ultra Wideband Available at www.mobileinfo.com/News/News_2000_Issue19/USWest.htm (Visited on October 21, 2001) Multispectral Solutions Inc, Perspectives on Ultra Wideband Technology, Available at http://www.darpa.mil/ipto/research/netex/presentations/Fontana.pdf (visited on 12/7/2001) Multispectral Solutions Inc, Ultra Wideband (UWB) Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ), September 27, 2001. Available at http://www.multispectral.com/UWBFAQ.html (visited on October 17 2001) Murch, Ross D, Khaled Ben Lataief, Wideband Wireless Access Technologies to Broadband Internet, IEEE Communications Magazine, April 2002 RTCA Special Committee, Ultra Wideband Technology Radio Frequency Interference Effects to GPS and Interference Scenario Development Available at http://ostpxweb.dot.gov/policy/gps/interim1.pdf (visited on 02/19/2002) Time Domain Corporation, Applications of Ultra Wideband Technology, Available at www.ero.dk/EROWEB/SRD/UWB/Time%20Domain/Tech%20Overview%20400-0001%20A.pdf (visited on 10/13/2001)
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Time Domain Corporation, PulsON Technology Time Modulated Ultra Wideband for Wireless Applications, June 2000, Available at http://www.ero.dk/EROWEB/SRD/UWB/Time%20Domain/Tech%20Overview%20400-0001%20A.pdf (visited on October 21, 2001) Time Domain Corporation, The Pulse of the Future, Available at http://www.timedomain.com/Files/HTML/pressreleases/reportandorderfcc.html (visited on October 21, 2001) Tomorrows Technology Teachers, Ultra wideband Technology What is it? August 1999. Available at http://ed.tsud.edu/tcubed/whats_this/whats_this_intro.htm (visited on October 5, 2001) Search Networking, Ultra Wideband Definition Available at http://searchnetworking.techtarget.com/sDefinition/0,,sid7_gci213243,00.html (visited on February 27, 2002) Spectrum Management Program, Regulations for use of Ultra Wideband Technology, Available at http://cio.doe.gov/spectrum/UWBregs.htm (visited on 02/15/2002)
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Understanding Ultra Wideband Technology: Advantages, Applications and Regulatory Policy Master of Arts in Law and Diplomacy Thesis

THE FLETCHER SCHOOL OF LAW & DIPLOMACY Tufts University

Understanding Ultra Wideband Technology: Advantages, Applications and Regulatory Policy

Deepali Iyengar MALD 2002

Prof. Lee McKnight MALD Thesis

Understanding Ultra Wideband Technology: Advantages, Applications and Regulatory Policy

1. Introduction and Background

2. Features of Ultra Wideband Technology

3. Major Players in the UWB Market

Time Domain Corporation

Excellent immunity to interference from other radio systems26.

Expected to consume substantially less power than existing conventional radios

Capable of high bandwidth, multi-channel performance28.

Multispectral Solutions Inc.

Fantasma Networks, Overview, News and Press Releases

4. Potential Markets and Applications

Time Domain Corporation, Applications of Ultra Wideband Technology

Some of the uses of Ultra Wideband Technology in this area are:

Ultra Wideband Technology uses in real time tracking are:

Time Domain Corporation, Applications of Ultra Wideband Technology

Exhibit 2: Applications of UWB Technology Communications Applications

Time Domain Corporation, Applications of Ultra Wideband Technology

5. Ultra Wideband Technology and Policy

But the panel also made the following recommendations; -

6. Regulatory Policy for Ultra Wideband Technology

Emission Bandwidth for One Type of UWB Transmitter

National Telecommunications & Information Administration

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