Antenna technology using large antenna arrays (64+) for high capacity and beamforming.
Description
Massive MIMO uses a large number of antenna elements (typically 64-256) at the base station to serve multiple users simultaneously through spatial multiplexing and beamforming.
In 5G NR, Massive MIMO is essential for both sub-6 GHz (capacity improvement) and mmWave (compensating path loss). It enables advanced beamforming with beam management procedures for initial access and mobility.
Purpose & Motivation
Massive MIMO was enhanced for 5G to:
- Dramatically increase spectral efficiency - Enable mmWave operation through beamforming gain - Support many users simultaneously (MU-MIMO) - Improve coverage and cell-edge performance
Key Features
- ✓64-256 antenna elements
- ✓3D beamforming
- ✓Beam management (P1/P2/P3)
- ✓CSI-RS based measurements
- ✓Type I and Type II codebooks
- ✓Multi-user MIMO (MU-MIMO)