Next generation UWB

NG-UWB is an evolution of previous UWB standards, building upon the foundation laid by IEEE 802.15.4z. The key differences of NG-UWB compared to earlier standards can be summarized as follows:

• Enhanced modulation schemes: NG-UWB introduces three advanced modulation schemes based on high pulse repetition frequency (HPRF). This includes two long-range and two high data rate modulation options, allowing for greater versatility in communication scenarios.
• Low latency communication mode: This feature utilizes low-density parity-check (LDPC) coding. It supports dynamic adaptation of the modulation scheme, enabling more efficient communication tailored to specific application needs.
• Multi-millisecond (MMS) ranging: MMS ranging breaks down UWB ranging packets into smaller fragments sent in consecutive millisecond time slots. This approach allows for an increased power budget, enhancing the performance of ranging operations.
• Improved ranging and data transfer: NG-UWB aims to address the limitations of previous UWB standards by significantly enhancing ranging performance and increasing data transfer capabilities.
• New coding schemes: The introduction of new coding schemes improves link budget and coexistence with other technologies, making UWB more robust in diverse environments.
• Sensing capabilities: Advanced sensing capabilities mean an expanded scope of applications for NG-UWB.
• Emerging applications: NG-UWB opens up new potential applications, such as tap-free payments, high-resolution audio and video streaming, advanced sensing and radar capabilities, presence detection, intrusion detection and vital sign monitoring.

NBA-MMS ranging improves UWB performance through:

• Segmentation of ranging packets: NBA-MMS ranging divides UWB ranging packets into smaller fragments. By sending these fragments in consecutive millisecond time slots, the system can optimize the use of allowed power per millisecond. This allows for more efficient transmission and reception of data, enhancing the overall accuracy and reliability of the ranging process.
• Increased power budget: NBA-MMS can take advantage of additional power resources. The consecutive time slots allow for a more sustained transmission, which can lead to improved signal strength and better performance in challenging environments where signal degradation may occur.
• Narrowband communication in control phase: By applying an offset quadrature phase shift keying (O-QPSK) physical layer in the 5 GHz band, the system can achieve a more stable and reliable control signal.
• Enhanced ranging accuracy: The combination of fragmented packet transmission and narrowband support leads to improved timing resolution and accuracy in distance measurements. This is crucial for applications that rely on precise positioning and ranging capabilities.
• Robustness in diverse environments: The ability to adaptively use narrowband communication helps maintain performance even in challenging conditions.

Some key emerging applications of NG-UWB are:

• Tap-free payment
• Secure access
• Asset tracking
• High-resolution audio and video
• Advanced sensing and radar capabilities
• Presence detection and occupant monitoring
• Intrusion detection
• Vital sign monitoring

Similar to the former generation of UWB, several levels of testing are required: from physical layer performance and conformance testing to MAC and interoperability testing, as covered by the FiRa certification schemes. Rohde & Schwarz offers complete solutions for regulatory and standard conformance of the physical layer. We also support physical layer performance testing for all phases of the product life cycle.

Secure ranging is a key feature of UWB for applications such as secure access or tap-free payment. In addition to the built-in technology features, there are certain physical test scenarios defined by FiRa that allow you to verify the robustness of the physical layer against attacks. These are also part of the FiRa physical layer certification.

The monitoring of potential security vulnerabilities and related technological advancements is an ongoing process. The FiRa consortium runs its own Security Incident Reporting system to collect and process security vulnerability reports.