arXiv subjects

Arjuna Madanayake

Publications and source records attributed to Arjuna Madanayake.

18 recordsLinked to original sources

arXiv2026

The Anatomy of RF Chains: Metrics, Measures, and Operating Efficiency

In 1958, Haus and Adler [1] introduced the concept of noise measure. Noise measure is a single quantitative metric that provides a comprehensive basis for comparing devices (individual circuits or outcomes of optimization iterations) in terms of their contribution to overall system noise by incorporating both noise factor and available power gain. Unlike noise factor alone, which reflects how much a device degrades the signal-to-noise ratio, noise measure captures the trade-off between noise and gain, making it a system-aware metric. This distinction is especially important when comparing devices in multistage systems, where both parameters jointly influence the overall system noise. Building on Haus and Adler's work, this article aims to advance RF system design by extending traditional device metrics, such as noise factor and noise measure, with new system-aware metrics: linearity, dynamic range, power efficiency, and waste measures. These new measures are interpretable, computable, and cascadable, making them well-suited for comparing the impact of individual devices or tracking the convergence of circuit design iterations on overall system-level performance. Additionally, a new metric--operating efficiency--is introduced, which unifies power efficiency, dynamic range, and data rate by incorporating signal statistics and variability in communication circuits and systems. Operating efficiency enables robust evaluation of devices under realistic and transient operating conditions, including interference, modulated signals, and adaptive modulation schemes.

eess.SY↗

arXiv2026

Detection of sUAS in Urban Environments using Multi-Antenna Micro-Doppler Radar

Sensing and early detection of small unmanned aerial systems (sUAS) are critically important in modern-day defense. In dense urban and indoor environments, detection becomes extremely challenging due to dense multipath, fading, low-altitude flight, and non-line-of-sight (NLOS) radio-frequency propagation. This paper presents a continuous-wave multiple-input multiple-output radar and a deep learning model for sUAS detection using NLOS signals. The radar operates at 2.47 GHz, and spectral correlation densities derived from rotational micro-Doppler signatures from the rotor blades are used as inputs to the deep learning model. Experimental results demonstrate an overall detection accuracy of $86.11\%$ across a dataset of five drone types, confirming the feasibility of sUAS detection in dense urban environments without direct line-of-sight conditions.

eess.SP↗

arXiv2026

Agentic Physical-AI for Self-Aware RF Systems

Intelligent control of RF transceivers adapting to dynamic operational conditions is essential in the modern and future communication systems. We propose a multi-agent neurosymbolic AI system, where AI agents are assigned for circuit components. Agents have an internal model and a corresponding control algorithm as its constituents. Modeling of the IF amplifier shows promising results, where the same approach can be extended to all the components, thus creating a fully intelligent RF system.

eess.SP↗

arXiv2025

A Light Weight Neural Network for Automatic Modulation Classification in OFDM Systems

Automatic Modulation Classification (AMC) is a vital component in the development of intelligent and adaptive transceivers for future wireless communication systems. Existing statistically-based blind modulation classification methods for Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) often fail to achieve the required accuracy and performance. Consequently, the modulation classification research community has shifted its focus toward deep learning techniques, which demonstrate promising performance, but come with increased computational complexity. In this paper, we propose a lightweight subcarrier-based modulation classification method for OFDM systems. In the proposed approach, a selected set of subcarriers in an OFDM frame is classified first, followed by the prediction of the modulation types for the remaining subcarriers based on the initial results. A Lightweight Neural Network (LWNN) is employed to identify the initially selected set of subcarriers, and its output is fed into a Recurrent Neural Network (RNN) as an embedded vector to predict the modulation schemes of the remaining subcarriers in the OFDM frame.

eess.SP↗

arXiv2025

General Framework for Array Noise Analysis and Noise Performance of a Two-Element Interferometer With a Mutual-Coupling Canceler

This article investigates the noise performance of a two-element phased array and interferometer containing a recently introduced self-interference canceler, which in the context of this work acts as a mutual-coupling canceler. To this end, a general framework is proposed to permit noise analysis of this network and a large variety of other networks. The framework-based numerical analysis for a two-element-phased array shows that the addition of the canceler significantly increases the beam-equivalent noise temperature. For a two-element interferometer used in cosmology, this increase in noise temperature is still acceptable as the sky noise temperature in the 20-to-200 MHz band is high. When used in an interferometer, the canceler provides the ability to null mutual coherence at the interferometer output. The ability to provide matching to reduce the sensitivity of the null in mutual coherence to the phase of the 90deg hybrids in the canceler is discussed.

eess.SP↗

arXiv2025

A Low-complexity Structured Neural Network Approach to Intelligently Realize Wideband Multi-beam Beamformers

True-time-delay (TTD) beamformers can produce wideband, squint-free beams in both analog and digital signal domains, unlike frequency-dependent FFT beams. Our previous work showed that TTD beamformers can be efficiently realized using the elements of delay Vandermonde matrix (DVM), answering the longstanding beam-squint problem. Thus, building on our work on classical algorithms based on DVM, we propose neural network (NN) architecture to realize wideband multi-beam beamformers using structure-imposed weight matrices and submatrices. The structure and sparsity of the weight matrices and submatrices are shown to reduce the space and computational complexities of the NN greatly. The proposed network architecture has O(pLM logM) complexity compared to a conventional fully connected L-layers network with O(M2L) complexity, where M is the number of nodes in each layer of the network, p is the number of submatrices per layer, and M >> p. We will show numerical simulations in the 24 GHz to 32 GHz range to demonstrate the numerical feasibility of realizing wideband multi-beam beamformers using the proposed neural architecture. We also show the complexity reduction of the proposed NN and compare that with fully connected NNs, to show the efficiency of the proposed architecture without sacrificing accuracy. The accuracy of the proposed NN architecture was shown using the mean squared error, which is based on an objective function of the weight matrices and beamformed signals of antenna arrays, while also normalizing nodes. The proposed NN architecture shows a low-complexity NN realizing wideband multi-beam beamformers in real-time for low-complexity intelligent systems.

cs.LG↗

arXiv2024

Revealing Invisible Scattering Poles via Complex Frequency Excitations

Recent research in light scattering has prompted a re-evaluation of complex quantities, particularly in the context of complex frequency signals, which exhibit exponential growth or decay unlike traditional harmonic signals. We introduce a novel approach using complex frequency signals to reveal hidden or invisible poles--those with predominantly imaginary components--previously undetected in conventional scattering experiments. By employing a carefully tuned complex frequency excitation method, we demonstrate the efficient conversion of non-oscillating fields into oscillating ones. This effect is shown in both RF and optical domains, specifically within the C-band infrared spectral range, which is crucial for communications. This study enhances the theoretical framework of wave interactions in photonic systems, paving the way for innovative applications in invisibility cloaking, advanced photonic devices, and the future of optical communication and quantum computing.

physics.class-ph↗

arXiv2024

Towards a Low-SWaP 1024-beam Digital Array: A 32-beam Sub-system at 5.8 GHz

Millimeter wave communications require multibeam beamforming in order to utilize wireless channels that suffer from obstructions, path loss, and multi-path effects. Digital multibeam beamforming has maximum degrees of freedom compared to analog phased arrays. However, circuit complexity and power consumption are important constraints for digital multibeam systems. A low-complexity digital computing architecture is proposed for a multiplication-free 32-point linear transform that approximates multiple simultaneous RF beams similar to a discrete Fourier transform (DFT). Arithmetic complexity due to multiplication is reduced from the FFT complexity of $\mathcal{O}(N\: \log N)$ for DFT realizations, down to zero, thus yielding a 46% and 55% reduction in chip area and dynamic power consumption, respectively, for the $N=32$ case considered. The paper describes the proposed 32-point DFT approximation targeting a 1024-beams using a 2D array, and shows the multiplierless approximation and its mapping to a 32-beam sub-system consisting of 5.8 GHz antennas that can be used for generating 1024 digital beams without multiplications. Real-time beam computation is achieved using a Xilinx FPGA at 120 MHz bandwidth per beam. Theoretical beam performance is compared with measured RF patterns from both a fixed-point FFT as well as the proposed multiplier-free algorithm and are in good agreement.

eess.SP↗

arXiv2024

Cellular Wireless Networks in the Upper Mid-Band

The upper mid-band - roughly from 7 to 24 GHz - has attracted considerable recent interest for new cellular services. This frequency range has vastly more spectrum than the highly congested bands below 7 GHz while offering more favorable propagation and coverage than the millimeter wave (mmWave) frequencies. The upper mid-band can thus provide a powerful and complementary frequency range to balance coverage and capacity. Realizing the full potential of these bands, however, will require fundamental changes to the design of cellular systems. Most importantly, spectrum will likely need to be shared with incumbents including communication satellites, military RADAR, and radio astronomy. Also, the upper mid-band is simply a vast frequency range. Due to this wide bandwidth, combined with the directional nature of transmission and intermittent occupancy of incumbents, cellular systems will need to be agile to sense and intelligently use large spatial and frequency degrees of freedom. This paper attempts to provide an initial assessment of the feasibility and potential gains of wideband cellular systems operating in the upper mid-band. The study includes: (1) a system study to assess potential gains of multi-band systems in a representative dense urban environment and illustrate the value of wide band system with dynamic frequency selectivity; (2) an evaluation of potential cross interference between satellites and terrestrial cellular services and interference nulling to reduce that interference; and (3) design and evaluation of a compact multi-band antenna array structure. Leveraging these preliminary results, we identify potential future research directions to realize next-generation systems in these frequencies.

cs.NI↗

arXiv2024

Anomalies in Light Scattering: A Circuit Model Approach

In experimental physics, it is essential to understand electromagnetic (EM) wave scattering across EM spectrum, from radio waves to X-rays, and is pivotal in driving photonics innovations. Recent advancements have uncovered phenomena like bound states in the continuum (BICs) and parity-time (PT) symmetric systems, which are closely associated with the characteristics of the scattering matrix and are governed by passivity and causality. The emergence of complex frequency excitations has transcended the constraints imposed by passivity and causality in a system, revealing effects such as virtual critical coupling and virtual gain. However, applying the concepts of complex frequency excitation in more complicated systems remains challenging. In this work, we demonstrate the extension of the lumped element model of circuit theory to the analysis of anomalies in light scattering in the complex frequency domain. We demonstrate that the circuit model approach can facilitate design and analysis of effects such as virtual perfect absorption, BICs, real and virtual critical coupling, exceptional points, and anisotropic transmission resonances (ATRs). These findings broaden comprehension of EM wave phenomena and pave the way for significant advancements in photonics, offering new methods for designing and optimizing optical devices and systems with broad-ranging applications.

physics.optics↗

arXiv2023

Fano-Qubits for Quantum Devices with Enhanced Isolation and Bandwidth

Magneto-optical isolators and circulators have been widely used to safeguard quantum devices from reflections and noise in the readout stage. However, these devices have limited bandwidth, low tunability, are bulky, and suffer from high losses, making them incompatible with planar technologies such as circuit QED. To address these limitations, we propose a new approach to quantum non-reciprocity that utilizes the intrinsic nonlinearity of qubits and broken spatial symmetry. We show that a circuit containing Lorentz-type qubits can be transformed into Fano-type qubits with an asymmetric spectral response, resulting in a significant improvement in isolation (up to 40 dB) and a twofold increase in spectral bandwidth (up to 200 MHz). Our analysis is based on realistic circuit parameters, validated by existing experimental results, and supported by rigorous quantum simulations. This approach could enable the development of compact, high-performance, and planar-compatible non-reciprocal quantum devices with potential applications in quantum computing, communication, and sensing.

quant-ph↗

arXiv2022

Vision Transformer with Convolutional Encoder-Decoder for Hand Gesture Recognition using 24 GHz Doppler Radar

Transformers combined with convolutional encoders have been recently used for hand gesture recognition (HGR) using micro-Doppler signatures. We propose a vision-transformer-based architecture for HGR with multi-antenna continuous-wave Doppler radar receivers. The proposed architecture consists of three modules: a convolutional encoderdecoder, an attention module with three transformer layers, and a multi-layer perceptron. The novel convolutional decoder helps to feed patches with larger sizes to the attention module for improved feature extraction. Experimental results obtained with a dataset corresponding to a two-antenna continuous-wave Doppler radar receiver operating at 24 GHz (published by Skaria et al.) confirm that the proposed architecture achieves an accuracy of 98.3% which substantially surpasses the state-of-the-art on the used dataset.

eess.SP↗

arXiv2021

Design of Maximum-Gain Dielectric Lens Antenna via Phase Center Analysis

In this work, a method is presented to maximize the obtained gain from millimeter-wave (mm-wave) lens antennas using phase center analysis. Commonly, for designing a lens antenna, the lens is positioned just on top of the antenna element which is not capable of providing the maximum gain/aperture efficiency. A novel solution method is proposed where the lens will be placed at a distance calculated using phase center analysis to produce the maximum gain from the system. A mm-wave microstrip antenna array is designed and the proposed method is applied for the gain enhancement. Simulation results suggest that the propose scheme obtains around 25% gain enhancement compared to the traditional method.

eess.SY↗

arXiv2021

Orbital Angular Momentum (OAM) Carrying Vortex Wave generation in Dielectric Filled Circular Waveguide

In this paper, we propose a method to generate Orbital Angular Momentum (OAM) carrying vortex waves inside a metallic circular waveguide (CW). These waves feature ability to carry multiple orthogonal modes at the same frequency, by the virtue of their unique spatial structure. In essence high data rate channels can be developed using such waves. In free space, OAM carrying vortex waves has beam divergence issues and a central NULL, which makes the waves unfavourable for free space communication. But, OAM modes in guided structures do not suffer from these drawbacks. This prospect of enhancement of communication spectrum provides the background for the study of vortex wave in the circular waveguides. In this work, a radial array of monopoles is designed to generate the vortex wave inside the waveguide. Further, we introduced the dielectric materials inside the waveguide in order to manipulate the operating frequency of the OAM modes. Simulation results shows that the various dielectric materials allow us to tune the working frequency of the OAM beam to a desired frequency.

eess.SY↗

arXiv2020

Millimeter-Wave Antenna Array Diagnosis with Partial Channel State Information

Large antenna arrays enable directional precoding for Millimeter-Wave (mmWave) systems and provide sufficient link budget to combat the high path-loss at these frequencies. Due to atmospheric conditions and hardware malfunction, outdoor mmWave antenna arrays are prone to blockages or complete failures. This results in a modified array geometry, distorted far-field radiation pattern, and system performance degradation. Recent remote array diagnostic techniques have emerged as an effective way to detect defective antenna elements in an array with few diagnostic measurements. These techniques, however, require full and perfect channel state information (CSI), which can be challenging to acquire in the presence of antenna faults. This paper proposes a new remote array diagnosis technique that relaxes the need for full CSI and only requires knowledge of the incident angle-of-arrivals, i.e. partial channel knowledge. Numerical results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed technique and show that fault detection can be obtained with comparable number of diagnostic measurements required by diagnostic techniques based on full channel knowledge. In presence of channel estimation errors, the proposed technique is shown to out-perform recently proposed array diagnostic techniques.

eess.SY↗

arXiv2020

A Passive STAR Microwave Circuit for 1-3 GHz Self-Interference Cancellation

Simultaneous transmit and receive (STAR) allows full-duplex operation of a radio, which leads to doubled capacity for a given bandwidth. A circulator with high-isolation between transmit and receive ports, and low-loss from the antenna to receive port is typically required for achieving STAR. Conventional circulators do not offer wideband performance. Although wideband circulators have been proposed using parametric, switched delay-line/capacitor, and N-path filter techniques using custom integrated circuits, these magnet-free devices have non-linearity, noise, aliasing, and switching noise injection issues. In this paper, a STAR front-end based on passive linear microwave circuit is proposed. Here, a dummy antenna located inside a miniature RF-silent absorption chamber allows circulator-free STAR using simple COTS components. The proposed approach is highly-linear, free from noise, does not require switching or parametric modulation circuits, and has virtually unlimited bandwidth only set by the performance of COTS passive microwave components. The trade-off is relatively large size of the miniature RF-shielded chamber, making this suitable for base-station side applications. Preliminary results show the measured performance of Tx/Rx isolation between 25-60 dB in the 1.0-3.0 GHz range, and 50-60 dB for the 2.4-2.7 GHz range.

eess.SP↗

arXiv2020

Xilinx RF-SoC-based Digital Multi-Beam Array Processors for 28/60~GHz Wireless Testbeds

Emerging wireless applications such as 5G cellular, large intelligent surfaces (LIS), and holographic massive MIMO require antenna array processing at mm-wave frequencies with large numbers of independent digital transceivers. This paper summarizes the authors' recent progress on the design and testing of 28 GHz and 60 GHz fully-digital array processing platforms based on wideband reconfigurable FPGA-based software-defined radios (SDRs). The digital baseband and microwave interfacing aspects of the SDRs are implemented on single-chip RF system-on-chip (RF-SoC) processors from Xilinx. Two versions of the RF-SoC technology (ZCU-111 and ZCU-1275) were used to implement fully-digital real-time array processors at 28~GHz (realizing 4 parallel beams with 0.8 GHz bandwidth per beam) and 60~GHz (realizing 4 parallel beams with 1.8~GHz bandwidth per beam). Dielectric lenslet arrays fed by a digital phased-array feed (PAF) located on the focal plane are proposed for further increasing antenna array gain.

eess.SP↗

arXiv2019

A Direct- Conversion Digital Beamforming Array Receiver with 800 MHz Channel Bandwidth at 28 GHz using Xilinx RF SoC

This paper discusses early results associated with a fully-digital direct-conversion array receiver at 28~GHz. The proposed receiver makes use of commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) electronics, including the receiver chain. The design consists of a custom 28~GHz patch antenna sub-array providing gain in the elevation plane, with azimuthal plane beamforming provided by real-time digital signal processing (DSP) algorithms running on a Xilinx Radio Frequency System on Chip (RF SoC). The proposed array receiver employs element-wise fully-digital array processing that supports ADC sample rates up to 2~GS/second and up to 1~GHz of operating bandwidth per antenna. The RF mixed-signal data conversion circuits and DSP algorithms operate on a single-chip RF SoC solution installed on the Xilinx ZCU1275 prototyping platform.

eess.SP↗