Novel array structure for space-time characterization of the UWB channel

Characterization of the propagation channel is the first step toward the development of accurate MIMO channel models. Unfortunately, comprehensive characterization of the UWB propagation channel requires a complex measurement setup. Usually, simpler configurations are used for space-time characterization which leads to biased statistical results. This paper presents a simple configuration which enables the estimation of the full 3D space-time characterization including polarization state and frequency dependence. The use of a 3 or 5 axis antennas in a Virtual Uniform Circular Array is the novelty. This setup removes major drawbacks of uniform circular array and offers an acceptable compromise between performance and complexity.