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arXiv · 2307.07340

A Tutorial on Extremely Large-Scale MIMO for 6G: Fundamentals, Signal Processing, and Applications

Zhe Wang·Jiayi Zhang·Hongyang Du·Dusit Niyato·Shuguang Cui·Bo Ai·Mérouane Debbah·Khaled B. Letaief·H. Vincent Poor
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Abstract

Extremely large-scale multiple-input-multiple-output (XL-MIMO), which offers vast spatial degrees of freedom, has emerged as a potentially pivotal enabling technology for the sixth generation (6G) of wireless mobile networks. With its growing significance, both opportunities and challenges are concurrently manifesting. This paper presents a comprehensive survey of research on XL-MIMO wireless systems. In particular, we introduce four XL-MIMO hardware architectures: uniform linear array (ULA)-based XL-MIMO, uniform planar array (UPA)-based XL-MIMO utilizing either patch antennas or point antennas, and continuous aperture (CAP)-based XL-MIMO. We comprehensively analyze and discuss their characteristics and interrelationships. Following this, we introduce several electromagnetic characteristics and general distance boundaries in XL-MIMO. Given the distinct electromagnetic properties of near-field communications, we present a range of channel models to demonstrate the benefits of XL-MIMO. We further discuss and summarize signal processing schemes for XL-MIMO. It is worth noting that the low-complexity signal processing schemes and deep learning empowered signal processing schemes are reviewed and highlighted to promote the practical implementation of XL-MIMO. Furthermore, we explore the interplay between XL-MIMO and other emergent 6G technologies. Finally, we outline several compelling research directions for future XL-MIMO wireless communication systems.

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Zhe Wang, Jiayi Zhang, Hongyang Du, Dusit Niyato, Shuguang Cui, Bo Ai, Mérouane Debbah, Khaled B. Letaief, H. Vincent Poor. 2023-07-14. A Tutorial on Extremely Large-Scale MIMO for 6G: Fundamentals, Signal Processing, and Applications. https://arxiv.org/abs/2307.07340

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