Researchers at the IHP – Leibniz Institute for Innovative Microelectronics have set a new world speed record. The circuit designed by the scientists in Frankfurt (Oder) can wirelessly transmit data at up to 200 gigabits per second. This surpasses the previous record, last published in 2019, which was around 120 gigabits per second. The results of the development have been published in the prestigious “IEEE Journal of Solid-State Circuits” magazine, after being peer-reviewed by experts. A research team at IHP has thus proven for the first time worldwide the general feasibility of extremely high data transmissions in the so-called D-band (frequencies between 110 and 170 GHz) and created a basic prerequisite for implementing applications for the next generation of mobile communications (6G).
A breakthrough has been achieved by IHP scientist Alper Karakuzulu and his research group led by Dr Andrea Malignaggi. The experts in high data rate communication circuits have developed a new chip within 130nm SiGe BiCMOS technology that contains transmitters, receivers and on-chip antennas and enables data transmission of 200 gigabits per second. “Our design was simulated down to the last detail before the circuit went into production,” explains Dr Andrea Malignaggi. The microchips manufactured in the IHP clean room were then extensively tested, and their performance measured in the IHP’s antenna measurement chamber, where there is no distracting radiation. The result, transmission over an initial range of 15 centimetres, is the basis for further development of the technology. “To be able to realise 6G for mobile communications, we need a completely new architecture. Picocells are an example of this. These radio cells should enable very high data rates at short distances, for example in conference rooms or in private areas when mobile phones, televisions and other devices are networked together,” explains Dr Andrea Malignaggi. Through the further development of the integrated components and circuit blocks of the individual chip, the integration of additional antennas as well as the combination of several microchips into complex systems, it will be possible in the future to transmit data ultra-fast even over a greater distance.
IHP is currently contributing its expertise to two important research projects in the field of 6G development. The EU project “Open6GHub – 6G for People, Environment & Society” aims to contribute to a global 6G harmonisation process and standard in a European context. The 6G Research and Innovation Cluster, or 6G-RIC for short, is a research centre that aims to create the scientific and technical basis for 6G at all technology levels, from radio access to core networks and fibre transport networks. With its research, the IHP is thus making an important contribution to strengthening Germany’s and Europe’s technological sovereignty and position in the international competition for 6G.
The full scientific publication can be found at:
https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/10005812
Image 1: The chips with the world-record circuit were manufactured as part of a multiwafer in the IHP clean room, afterwards the chips were sawn and tested. (Source: IHP)
About IHP:
The IHP is an institute of the Leibniz Association and conducts research and development on silicon-based systems, radio frequency circuits and technologies, including new materials. It develops innovative solutions for application areas such as wireless and broadband communication, security, medical technology, Industry 4.0, mobility and space travel. The IHP employs about 350 people. It has a pilot line for technological developments and the preparation of high-speed circuits with 0.13/0.25 µm SiGe BiCMOS technologies, located in a 1500 m² DIN EN ISO 14644-1 3 clean room.