Modeling 5G Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) Links in MATLAB

Overview

Ubiquitous internet connectivity using satellites is no longer a dream as demonstrated by the 3GPP investment in 5G New Radio (NR) non-terrestrial networks (NTN). The challenges of NTN links are very different in comparison to terrestrial links, as they must deal with larger propagation delays and high Doppler.

In this webinar, you will learn about modeling 5G non-terrestrial links in MATLAB. We will start with an overview of the orbit propagation capabilities in MATLAB that allows you to model large satellites constellations in their orbits and generate coverage maps for different antenna types. We will then focus modeling a 5G NTN link by evaluating the throughput of NR Physical Downlink Shared Channel (PDSCH) in an NTN channel, specifically, the tapped delay line (TDL) NTN channel. We will also learn about the different Doppler compensation strategies employed in an NTN link. We will also briefly talk about narrowband Internet of Things (NB-IoT) NTN links before making our conclusions. 

Highlights

Highlights include:

• Modeling large satellite constellations
• Satellite link budgets
• Generating coverage maps on earth for different antenna types
• 5G NR NTN PDSCH throughput in the presence of RF Impairments
• NB-IoT throughput for an NTN link

About the Presenter

Mike McLernon is an advocate for communications and software-defined radio products at MathWorks. Since joining MathWorks in 2001, he has overseen the development of PHY layer modeling and SDR connectivity capabilities in Communications Toolbox. He has worked in the communications field for over 30 years in both the satellite and wireless industries. Mike received his BSEE from the University of Virginia and his MEEE from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.