Beamforming for Ultra Reliable Low Latency Wireless Communication 5G/6G Systems

Abstract

Ultra-Reliable Low-Latency Communication (URLLC) is a key enabling technology for critical 5G/6G mission-critical applications such as autonomous vehicles and remote healthcare. To achieve its demanding sub-millisecond latency and 10-5 packet error rate targets, highly optimized physical layer solutions are necessary. Beamforming specifications are able to meet these requirements by focusing signal energy to provide improved link reliability, link power, and spectral efficiency. This paper provides a comparative analysis of analog, digital, and hybrid beamforming solutions for URLLC, from a perspective of complexity, speed, and reliability. It discusses machine learning frameworks for dynamic channel conditions and user mobility. Finally, we discuss remaining challenges such as hardware constraints and massive MIMO/mmWave integration, with the assertion that sophisticated beamforming will be critical for maximizing performance of future wireless networks.