Space-time coding, combining, or multiplexing: An experimental comparison for sub-THz MIMO.

Abstract

Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (MIMO) systems have been presented for Terahertz (THz) communications to combat high path loss and enable Terabit-per-second (Tbps) links. The lack of experimental MIMO channel measurements and data transmission, however, has restricted the majority of THz MIMO work to the theoretical realm. Additionally, of the experimental MIMO sub-THz platforms presented, there has yet to be a side-by-side comparison of various physical-layer implementations. In this paper, we have presented sub-THz MIMO channel measurement results and results of data transmission comparing different MIMO implementations: maximum ratio combining, space-time coding, and spatial multiplexing. We demonstrate achievable data rates up to 89.8 Gbps, and from the measured data, we offer discussion for future directions of sub THz MIMO technology.