Rohde & Schwarz Explains 4x4 MIMO for Mobile Networks

Test and measurement equipment provider Rohde & Schwarz has published an analysis on the implementation of 4x4 MIMO (Multiple-Input Multiple-Output) technology in mobile networks. The article explains that 4x4 MIMO can double peak data rates and provide additional capacity gains in existing LTE and 5G networks.

The technology requires four transmit antennas at the base station and four receive antennas in the user equipment, such as smartphones. This configuration enables the simultaneous transmission and reception of four independent data streams. This capability significantly boosts network performance, particularly in urban environments where signal reflections contribute to the necessary multipath richness.

Rohde & Schwarz notes that while network densification and introducing new frequencies are time-consuming and costly solutions for increasing capacity, leveraging 4x4 MIMO in existing infrastructure offers a more efficient path to higher peak speeds and improved user experience.

The analysis highlights that although the full benefits of four data streams are realized under optimal radio conditions, the technology also yields improvements at cell edges. This is achieved through transmit diversity, which enhances data throughput and signal stability compared to previous 2x2 MIMO configurations.