6G ISAC
Integrated sensing and communication (ISAC) is a key 6G technology component that transforms mobile networks from basic communication systems into spatially aware platforms. Historically, communication and radar applications were studied, developed and commercialized separately. ISAC is a unification of the two. It uses the same radio signals, infrastructure and hardware for both communication and sensing, offering high-speed data connectivity while functioning as an intelligent radarto detect, locate and track objects in real time.
A network that is natively aware of its physical surroundings enables a wide range of advanced applications, such as:
- Aerial traffic management: Detects and classifies drones or uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAV) and/or enables efficient communication for collision avoidance
- Industrial automation: Tracks robotic equipment and enables robot communication to ensure safety and improve factory efficiency
- Traffic monitoring: Traffic density estimation, speed estimation, direction estimation, lane-related localization and detection of critical situations such as wrong-way driving or hazardous objects on railways
ISAC increases overall efficiency as communication and sensing utilize the same spectrum, and signals are transmitted and received by the same hardware. In other words, the same spectrum and signals are used for both purposes. This leads to opportunities and challenges from a testing perspective.
Rohde & Schwarz actively participates in research and implementation projects. We are actively involved in both national and international 6G research and pre-development projects, working alongside renowned institutions to develop the relevant test solutions. For example, we are a partner for the 6G SENSATION Project (funded by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research).
