Virtual Transceiver Matrix for Future Programmable Wireless Sensing and Communication Frontends

In this paper, a transceiver architecture suitable for future reconfigurable and programmable wireless communication and sensing systems is proposed and demonstrated. The two-dimensional (2D) distribution of both receiver (Rx) and transmitter (Tx) unit-cells enables the integration of multiple functions in a single transceiver topology, named Virtual Transceiver Matrix (VTM). The reason behind calling it “virtual” is rooted in a dynamic allocation of both modulating and demodulating unit-cells in this architecture. This allocation is dependent on the incoming signal properties and desired output radiations. Furthermore, the number of Rx and Tx channels is significantly increased compared to conventional fixed architectures. Mathematical modeling of VTM unit-cells is presented and simulations are performed to confirm the desired operation of the proposed topological transceiver.