Rate and antenna selection using single txop

Abstract

In an example, a method includes obtaining, in a sounding Wi-Fi device (100), a transmission opportunity (TXOP) on a Wi-Fi channel. The method also includes transmitting, using a first antenna (114.1), a sounding packet from the sounding Wi-Fi device (100) to a receiving Wi-Fi device (116) during the TXOP. The method includes receiving a first feedback in response to transmitting the sounding packet with the first antenna (114.1). The method also includes transmitting the sounding packet from the sounding Wi-Fi device (100) to the receiving Wi-Fi device (116) using a second antenna (114.2) during the TXOP. The method includes receiving a second feedback in response to transmitting the sounding packet with the second antenna (114.2). The method also includes setting, by the sounding Wi-Fi device (100), a set of transmission parameters and selecting an antenna based at least in part on the first feedback or the second feedback.

Description

Background Art

[0001] Wi-Fi is a term used to refer to communications using various wireless network protocols in the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.11 family of wireless network protocols. Wi-Fi stations communicate by sending blocks of data (packets) to each other over a radio link. Link adaptation refers to matching the modulation, coding, and other signal and protocol parameters to the conditions on the radio link. Link adaptation algorithms react to channel conditions by changing the operating point of the radio link, with the goal of achieving performance criteria that can include the highest possible throughput and lowest power consumption. Summary of the invention

[0002] In at least one example of the present specification, a method includes obtaining a transmission opportunity (TXOP) on a Wi-Fi channel in a probing Wi-Fi device. The method also includes transmitting a probing packet from the probing Wi-Fi device to a receiving Wi-Fi device using a first antenna during the TXOP. The method includes receiving a first feedback in response to transmitting the probing packet using the first antenna. The method also includes transmitting the probing packet from the probing Wi-Fi device to the receiving Wi-Fi device using a second antenna during the TXOP. The method includes receiving a second feedback in response to transmitting the probing packet using the second antenna. The method also includes setting, by the probing Wi-Fi device, a set of transmission parameters and a selected antenna based at least in part on the first feedback or the second feedback.

[0003] In at least one example of the present specification, a method includes: obtaining a TXOP on a Wi-Fi channel in a probing Wi-Fi device. The method also includes transmitting a first sounding packet from the probing Wi-Fi device to a receiving Wi-Fi device using a first antenna during the TXOP, wherein the first sounding packet is transmitted with a first set of transmission parameters. The method includes receiving a first feedback in response to transmitting the first sounding packet using the first antenna. The method also includes transmitting a second sounding packet from the probing Wi-Fi device to the receiving Wi-Fi device using the first antenna during the TXOP, wherein the second sounding packet is transmitted with a second set of transmission parameters. The method includes receiving a second feedback in response to transmitting the second sounding packet using the first antenna. The method also includes transmitting the second sounding packet from the probing Wi-Fi device to the receiving Wi-Fi device using a second antenna during the TXOP, wherein the second sounding packet is transmitted with the second set of transmission parameters. The method includes receiving a third feedback in response to transmitting the second sounding packet using the second antenna. The method also includes setting, by the probing Wi-Fi device, one or more transmission parameters within a set of transmission parameters based at least in part on the first feedback, the second feedback, or the third feedback.

[0004] In at least one example of the present specification, a system includes a memory storing instructions in a probing Wi-Fi device. The system includes a processor, the processor coupled to a Wi-Fi transmitter and a Wi-Fi receiver in the probing Wi-Fi device, the Wi-Fi transmitter and the Wi-Fi receiver being configured to communicate via a Wi-Fi channel. The processor is configured to execute the instructions stored in the memory. The instructions are executed to obtain a TXOP on a Wi-Fi channel. The instructions are also executed to transmit, by the Wi-Fi transmitter, a probe packet to a receiving Wi-Fi device using a first antenna during the TXOP, wherein the probe packet is transmitted with a transmission parameter within a transmission parameter set. The instructions are executed to receive a first feedback at the Wi-Fi receiver in response to transmitting the probe packet using the first antenna. The instructions are executed to transmit, by the Wi-Fi transmitter, the probe packet to the receiving Wi-Fi device using a second antenna during the TXOP, wherein the probe packet is transmitted with the transmission parameter within the transmission parameter set. The instructions are also executed to receive a second feedback at the Wi-Fi receiver in response to transmitting the probe packet using the second antenna. The instructions are executed to set, by the probing Wi-Fi device, the transmission parameters and the selected antenna within the transmission parameter set based at least in part on the first feedback or the second feedback. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0005] Figure 1 is a block diagram of a Wi-Fi device in various examples.

[0006] Figure 2 is a timing diagram of antenna selection in various examples.

[0007] Figure 3 is a timing diagram of antenna and rate selection in various examples.

[0008] Figure 4 is a timing diagram of antenna and rate selection in various examples.

[0009] Figure 5 is a flow chart of a method for antenna selection in various examples.

[0010] Figure 6 is a flow chart of a method for antenna and rate selection in various examples.

[0011] Figure 7 is a flow chart of a method for antenna and rate selection in various examples.

[0012] The same reference numbers or other reference designators are used in the drawings to indicate the same or similar features (functionally and / or structurally). DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0013] Link adaptation in 802.11 protocol technology involves the use of algorithms that change the device operating point of a link in response to channel conditions. Some common degrees of freedom exercised by link adaptation algorithms are the choice of modulation and coding schemes and transmit power. For multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) systems, there are more degrees of freedom. For example, the number of spatial streams and the specific antenna elements that can be used for those streams are also choices that can be evaluated by the link adaptation algorithm.

[0014] A transmission opportunity (TXOP) is a quality of service (QoS) feature of the IEEE 802.11 protocol that provides Wi-Fi devices with uncontentioned channel access for a limited period of time. During the duration of a TXOP, a Wi-Fi device must win air access to a specific channel (using the 802.11 Enhanced Distributed Channel Access (EDCA) procedure). After the TXOP is completed, the Wi-Fi device may need to re-win air access and issue the next available TXOP before transmitting. In some systems, before transmitting a data packet on a channel, a Wi-Fi device determines its transmission characteristics or operating profile by evaluating channel conditions. A Wi-Fi device may evaluate channel conditions such as throughput (e.g., bit rate), power consumption (e.g., transmitter power), modulation and coding scheme (MCS), or other transmitter and channel characteristics. A Wi-Fi device may seek to achieve performance criteria based on these channel characteristic estimates, which may include the highest bit rate and / or lowest transmitter power that can be used.

[0015] In some evaluation processes, a Wi-Fi device sets its transmitter channel characteristic evaluation based on a test setting for bit rate and / or transmitter power, and sends a probe packet to a receiving Wi-Fi device during a first TXOP. If the sending device receives an acknowledgment packet (e.g., an acknowledgment (ACK) or another feedback indication) from the receiving device, the sending device may interpret the acknowledgment packet as an indication that the test setting is valid for reliable transmission of the probe packet. The Wi-Fi device may then send one or more such additional probe packets sent under different test settings during a second or subsequent TXOP to evaluate channel conditions. After the Wi-Fi device evaluates the channel conditions, the Wi-Fi device transmits its data packets using the selected transmitter settings based on the evaluated channel conditions. However, transmitting each probe packet at a different TXOP may take a significant amount of time because the Wi-Fi device must re-earn wireless access rights for the next available TXOP in the system. In addition, in a system with multiple antennas, using a separate TXOP for each antenna may cause the duration of the link evaluation process to grow with the number of antennas. In a system with a large number of antennas and multiple probes sent per antenna, the time to complete the link evaluation process may increase significantly.

[0016] In the examples herein, a single TXOP is used for the link assessment process. During a single TXOP, valid and optimal transmission parameter settings and antenna selection are determined. A set of transmission parameters may be referred to herein as a transmission parameter set. A single receive chain transmitter generates a sounding sequence within a single TXOP. In some examples, the sounding may be a physical layer convergence protocol (PLCP) protocol data unit (PPDU). In some examples, the sounding packets are empty packets, but the sounding Wi-Fi device selects these packets to cause the receiving Wi-Fi device to send a reply. Each PPDU corresponds to a different set of transmission parameters via different antennas. The sounding is sent to the receiving device, which may send feedback to the transmitter if the PPDU is received. Based on the feedback or lack of feedback in response to the PPDU, the transmitter selects the next transmission sounding parameter set and antenna. The next PPDU may have lower or higher power, lower or higher complexity power, modulation and coding scheme, different antenna, etc. The transmitter may receive feedback again and then send another sounding PPDU. The Wi-Fi device may be configured to repeat the process until a suitable or optimal antenna corresponding to the communication medium and a suitable or optimal set of transmission parameters within the transmission parameter set are selected. In some examples, after the probing Wi-Fi device selects an antenna and transmission parameters, data may be exchanged between the Wi-Fi devices during a single TXOP.

[0017] Figure 1 1 is a block diagram of a Wi-Fi device 100 in various examples herein. The Wi-Fi device 100 includes a processor 102 and a memory 104. The memory 104 stores instructions or logic 106 that, when executed by the processor 102, cause the processor 102 to perform various functions described herein. The memory 104 is an example of a non-transitory computer-readable medium. The components in the Wi-Fi device 100 may be coupled by a bus 108 or in any other suitable manner. Figure 1 , an example is shown in which components are coupled via a bus 108.

[0018] Wi-Fi device 100 also includes a transmitter 110 and a receiver 112. In one example, Wi-Fi device 100 may be a single receive chain device. Wi-Fi device 100 may include any number of antennas, such as antennas 114.1, 114.2, etc., up to antenna 114.N (collectively referred to as antennas 114). Wi-Fi device 100 may communicate with another Wi-Fi device 116 via link 118. In some examples, Wi-Fi device 100 is referred to as a detecting Wi-Fi device, and Wi-Fi device 116 is referred to as a receiving Wi-Fi device.

[0019] Processor 102 is configured to read and execute computer-readable instructions. For example, processor 102 is configured to call and execute instructions in a program stored in memory 104, including logic 106. In some examples, logic 106 includes one or more link adaptation algorithms. In response to processor 102 transmitting data, processor 102 drives or controls transmitter 110 to perform transmission. Processor 102 also drives or controls receiver 112 to perform reception in response to processor 102 receiving data. Therefore, processor 102 can be regarded as a control center for performing transmission or reception of data, and transmitter 110 and receiver 112 are executors for performing transmission and reception operations.

[0020] This description relates to the functionality of Wi-Fi device 100, processor 102, and logic 106. Wi-Fi device 100, processor 102, and logic 106 may include processing circuitry, such as one or more processors (e.g., one or more processing cores). Wi-Fi device 100, processor 102, and logic 106 may include any combination of integrated circuitry, discrete logic circuitry, analog circuitry, such as one or more microprocessors, microcontrollers, digital signal processors, application specific integrated circuits, central processing units, field programmable gate arrays, and / or any other processing resources. The techniques described in this description may also be embodied or encoded in an article of manufacture that includes a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium, such as memory 104. Although processor 102 is described as a single processor, processor 102 may include multiple components, such as any combination of the processing resources listed above, as well as other discrete or integrated logic circuits, and / or analog circuitry.

[0021] In some examples, memory 104 is coupled to processor 102 via bus 108. In other examples, memory 104 is integrated with processor 102. Memory 104 is configured to store various software programs and / or multiple sets of instructions, including logic 106. Memory 104 may include one or more storage devices. For example, memory 104 may include high-speed random access memory and / or may include non-volatile memory, such as one or more disk storage devices, flash memory, another non-volatile solid-state storage device, or pseudo-static random access memory (PSRAM). Memory 104 may store OS such as ANDROID, IOS, WINDOWS, or LINUX. Memory 104 may also store network communication programs. Network communication programs can be used to perform communication with one or more attached devices, one or more user devices, or one or more network devices. Memory 104 may also store user interface programs. The user interface program displays the content of the application through a graphical interface, and receives data or controls the operation performed on the application by the user via input such as menus, dialog boxes, or physical input devices (not shown). The memory 104 is configured to store instructions or logic 106 for implementing the various methods and processes provided in the various examples of this specification.

[0022] The Wi-Fi device 100 may also include another communication component, such as a global positioning system (GPS) module, a cellular module, a Bluetooth or low-power Bluetooth (BLE) module, a Zigbee module, a long-term evolution (LTE), a LTE-machine type communication (LTE-M), a narrowband LTE (NB-LTE), a sub-gigahertz communication (sub1G), or a wireless fidelity (WI-FI) module. The Wi-Fi device 100 may also support another wireless communication signal, such as a satellite signal or a shortwave signal. The Wi-Fi device 100 may also have a wired network interface or a local area network (LAN) interface to support wired communication.

[0023] In various examples, the Wi-Fi device 100 may also include an input / output interface (not shown) for enabling communication between the Wi-Fi device 100 and one or more input / output devices (not shown). Examples of input / output devices include audio input / output devices, key input devices, displays, etc. The input / output devices are configured to implement interaction between the Wi-Fi device 100 and a user or an external environment. The input / output devices may also include cameras, touch screens, sensors, etc. The input / output devices communicate with the processor 102 through a user interface.

[0024] Figure 1The Wi-Fi device 100 shown in FIG. 1 is an example of a Wi-Fi system or device. During actual application, the Wi-Fi device 100 may include more or fewer components. During operation, the Wi-Fi device 100 may be connected to other Wi-Fi devices, such as the Wi-Fi device 116.

[0025] In an example operation, Wi-Fi device 100 performs a transmission rate and antenna selection process at a single TXOP that includes the following phases. First, Wi-Fi device 100 performs an initial transmission rate selection phase at an initial antenna. Second, Wi-Fi device 100 performs a sounding phase at an alternative antenna and then performs antenna selection. Third, Wi-Fi device 100 may perform an optional final rate selection phase. Fourth, Wi-Fi device 100 may perform a data exchange phase with another Wi-Fi device.

[0026] In the example herein, during a single TXOP channel assessment probing phase, the Wi-Fi device 100 may alternate between antenna elements and transmission parameter optimization. During the TXOP, the channel used is not available to other devices or users. Therefore, other users do not interfere with the link assessment procedure performed by the Wi-Fi device 100, allowing the Wi-Fi device 100 to complete the link assessment procedure in a timely manner. This becomes more important as the number of antennas increases, which may require a longer link assessment procedure to find the optimal antenna. If the Wi-Fi device 100 were to use multiple TXOPs, the Wi-Fi device 100 would have to compete with other devices for each TXOP, and if the Wi-Fi device 100 fails to compete for the TXOP, it would have to wait until the channel is idle again. By using a single TXOP, the Wi-Fi device 100 can select a suitable or optimal antenna that utilizes a suitable or optimal transmission parameter set within a transmission parameter set corresponding to the communication medium without waiting for additional TXOPs to become available.

[0027] In one example operation, Wi-Fi device 100 generates a sequence of multi-antenna sounding PPDUs to be transmitted during a single TXOP. This sequence may be referred to as a PPDU burst. A PPDU may be a short sounding transmission that does not contain any data payload, such as a QoS (Quality of Service) null frame. In one example, each PPDU in a burst may correspond to a different transmit antenna 114. Transmitter 110 begins transmitting a burst of PPDUs at an initial antenna (e.g., antenna 114.1).

[0028] The Wi-Fi device 100 then receives feedback about the transmitted PPDU. In one example, the feedback may be an acknowledgment or ACK. If the Wi-Fi device 100 receives an ACK, the transmission parameters for the PPDU are good enough to successfully complete the transmission for the channel and the receiving device. If the Wi-Fi device 100 does not receive an acknowledgment, a NACK (non-acknowledgement or negative acknowledgment) is generated. If a NACK occurs, this means that the transmission parameters and / or antenna failed to complete the transmission. Another type of feedback received by the Wi-Fi device 100 may be a packet error rate. Another type of feedback may be channel state information (CSI). The Wi-Fi device 100 may transmit a probe that causes the Wi-Fi device 100 to receive a certain type of CSI in return.

[0029] After the Wi-Fi device 100 receives feedback in response to the PPDU, the Wi-Fi device 100 analyzes the feedback. Based on the feedback, the Wi-Fi device 100 can measure and evaluate the channel conditions. If the PPDU generates an ACK, the Wi-Fi device 100 can continue to transmit data using the same antenna and transmission parameter set as the successful PPDU. The Wi-Fi device 100 can send another PPDU using the same antenna with a different transmission parameter set. The Wi-Fi device 100 can send another PPDU using a different antenna with the same transmission parameter set as the first PPDU or with a different transmission parameter set. The Wi-Fi device 100 can be configured to perform all of these actions during the same TXOP. The TXOP can last for a requested time, so the Wi-Fi device 100 can request enough time to perform a potential PPDU burst for the antenna 114.

[0030] In another example operation, Wi-Fi device 100 may prepare PPDU bursts corresponding to different transmission parameter sets, such as antennas, bit rates, transmitter power, modulation and coding schemes, etc. With this option, Wi-Fi device 100 may select the optimal antenna and transmission parameters that match the communication medium in which the system operates. Thus, Wi-Fi device 100 may be configured to perform antenna selection and transmission parameter set optimization at the same TXOP.

[0031] In another example operation, the Wi-Fi device 100 may combine sounding with data exchange. The PPDU burst may include data exchange after the sounding sequence. The multi-antenna selection method described herein allows the configuration of subsequent transmissions to be set to an optimal or appropriate state based on the results of the link evaluation process. Therefore, the Wi-Fi device 100 can perform antenna selection, transmission parameter set optimization, and data exchange at the same TXOP.

[0032] Figure 22 is a timing diagram 200 of antenna selection using PPDU bursts in various examples herein. Timing diagram 200 shows a TXOP 202 where a Wi-Fi device performs antenna selection using consecutive multi-antenna sounding PPDU bursts. In timing diagram 200, a Wi-Fi device selects an antenna to be used for the next transmission.

[0033] The example of timing diagram 200 includes two antennas, namely, first antenna 114.1 and second antenna 114.2. In this example, TXOP 202 includes antenna selection phase 204 and data exchange phase 206. At the beginning of antenna selection phase 204, first antenna 114.1 transmits first sounding packet 208A to a receiving Wi-Fi device, such as Wi-Fi device 116. Wi-Fi device 100 transmits first sounding packet 208A with a certain set of transmission parameters. For example, first sounding packet 208A may have a certain transmission power, a certain bit rate, a certain MCS, etc. MCS may be binary phase shift keying (BPSK), quadrature phase shift keying (QPSK), quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM), or any other suitable modulation and coding scheme. First sounding packet 208A may also include other transmission parameters. Wi-Fi device 100 may be configured to store the transmission parameters in a memory (e.g., memory 104) so ​​that Wi-Fi device 100 can track the performance of probe packets with different transmission parameters in order to evaluate channel conditions to find a suitable or optimal antenna and a suitable or optimal set of transmission parameters corresponding to the communication medium.

[0034] After the Wi-Fi device 100 transmits the first sounding packet 208A, the first antenna 114.1 may receive feedback 210. The feedback 210 may be in the form of an ACK from the receiving Wi-Fi device. The feedback 210 may be a packet that includes CSI about the channel. The feedback 210 may include any other type of data that provides information about the channel. In addition, in some examples, the Wi-Fi device 100 may not receive a response from the receiving Wi-Fi device. This negative acknowledgement or NACK is also a form of feedback that the Wi-Fi device 100 may receive. The Wi-Fi device 100 may store the feedback 210, for example, in the memory 104. The Wi-Fi device 100 may be configured to set transmission parameters based at least in part on the feedback 210 and another feedback.

[0035] exist Figure 2In the example of FIG. 1 , after the Wi-Fi device 100 receives the feedback 210, the Wi-Fi device 100 transmits a second probe packet 208B to the receiving Wi-Fi device using the second antenna 114.2. In this example, the first probe packet 208A and the second probe packet 208B have the same transmission parameters except that they are transmitted by different antennas. For example, if the first probe packet 208A has a first transmission power and a first bit rate, the second probe packet 208B also has the first transmission power and the first bit rate.

[0036] After the Wi-Fi device 100 transmits the second probe packet 208B, the second antenna 114.2 may receive feedback 212. The feedback 212 may be any of the types of feedback described above with respect to the feedback 210. In this example, the Wi-Fi device 100 analyzes the feedback 210 and 212 and determines that the second antenna 114.2, which utilizes the transmission parameters of the second probe packet 208B, can provide a suitable or optimal communication medium using those particular transmission parameters. For example, the first antenna 114.1 may receive a NACK indicating the feedback 210, while the second antenna 114.2 receives an ACK indicating the feedback 212. The Wi-Fi device may then transmit data using the transmission parameters of the second antenna 114.2 and the probe packet 208B during the data exchange phase 206 of the TXOP 202. This data transmission occurs during the data exchange phase 206 of the TXOP 202. Figure 2 2 as a PPDU transmission 214. After the Wi-Fi device 100 transmits the PPDU transmission 214 to the receiving Wi-Fi device, the second antenna 114.2 may receive feedback 216 from the receiving Wi-Fi device. The Wi-Fi device 100 may be configured to store and / or use this feedback 216 for later transmission.

[0037] like Figure 2 As shown in FIG. 2 , a Wi-Fi device can utilize a multi-antenna sounding PPDU burst for antenna selection using a single TXOP 202. Figure 2 208A, wherein the Wi-Fi device 100 transmits a first probe packet 208A to the receiving Wi-Fi device 100. The Wi-Fi device 100 may transmit ...

[0038] Figure 3 300 is a timing diagram of antenna and rate selection using PPDU bursts in various examples herein. The timing diagram 300 shows a TXOP 302 where a Wi-Fi device performs antenna and rate selection and optimization using consecutive multi-antenna sounding PPDU bursts. In the timing diagram 300, the Wi-Fi device selects an antenna to be used for the next transmission and optimizes transmission parameters according to the communication channel.

[0039] The example of timing diagram 300 includes two antennas, namely, first antenna 114.1 and second antenna 114.2. In this example, TXOP 302 includes antenna selection and transmission parameter tuning phase 304 and data exchange phase 306. At the beginning of tuning phase 304, first antenna 114.1 transmits first probe packet 308A to a receiving Wi-Fi device, such as Wi-Fi device 116. Wi-Fi device 100 transmits first probe packet 308A with a certain set of transmission parameters. For example, first probe packet 308A may have a certain transmission power, a certain bit rate, a certain MCS, a certain format, etc. Wi-Fi device 100 may store the transmission parameters in a memory, such as memory 104, so Wi-Fi device 100 can track the performance of probe packets with different transmission parameters in order to evaluate channel conditions to find a suitable or optimal antenna and a suitable or optimal set of transmission parameters corresponding to the communication medium.

[0040] After the Wi-Fi device 100 transmits the first sounding packet 308A, the first antenna 114.1 may receive feedback 310. The feedback 310 may be in the form of an ACK, NACK, CSI, etc. from the receiving Wi-Fi device, as described above. The Wi-Fi device 100 may be configured to store the feedback 310, for example, in the memory 104. The Wi-Fi device 100 may be configured to set antenna selection and transmission parameters based at least in part on the feedback 310 and another feedback.

[0041] exist Figure 3 In the example of FIG. 3 , after the Wi-Fi device 100 receives the feedback 310, the Wi-Fi device 100 transmits a second probe packet 308B to the receiving Wi-Fi device using the second antenna 114.2. In this example, the first probe packet 308A and the second probe packet 308B have the same transmission parameters except that they are transmitted by different antennas. For example, if the first probe packet 308A has a first transmission power and a first bit rate, the second probe packet 308B also has the first transmission power and the first bit rate.

[0042] After the Wi-Fi device 100 transmits the second sounding packet 308B, the second antenna 114.2 may receive feedback 312. The feedback 312 may be any of the feedback types described above with respect to the feedback 310. Next, the Wi-Fi device 100 transmits a third sounding packet 314A through the first antenna 114.1. In this example, the third sounding packet 314A includes a different set of transmission parameters than the first sounding packet 308A or the second sounding packet 308B. In this example, the Wi-Fi device 100 transmits the sounding packets with different transmission parameters on various antennas to optimize both antenna selection and transmission parameters. For example, the Wi-Fi device 100 may be configured to transmit the first sounding packet 308A and the second sounding packet 308B using a first transmission power, while the Wi-Fi device 100 may be configured to transmit the third sounding packet 314A using a second transmission power different from the first transmission power. Alternatively, the third sounding packet 314A may have a different MCS or other transmission parameters than the first sounding packet 308A or the second sounding packet 308B. In some examples, Wi-Fi device 100 can be configured to select transmission parameters for third probe packet 314A based at least in part on feedback 310 and / or feedback 312. In other examples, memory 104 can store preset transmission parameters for various probe packets.

[0043] After the Wi-Fi device 100 transmits the third sounding packet 314A through the first antenna 114.1, the Wi-Fi device 100 may receive feedback 316. The feedback 316 may be any of the feedback types described above with respect to the feedback 310. After the Wi-Fi device 100 receives the feedback 316, the second antenna 114.2 may transmit a fourth sounding packet 314B. In this example, the fourth sounding packet 314B has the same transmission parameters as the third sounding packet 314A, except that it is transmitted by a different antenna. For example, if the third sounding packet 314A has a second transmission power and a second bit rate, the fourth sounding packet 314B also has the second transmission power and the second bit rate.

[0044] After the Wi-Fi device 100 transmits the fourth sounding packet 314B, the second antenna 114.2 may receive feedback 318. The feedback 318 may be any of the types of feedback described above with respect to the feedback 310. Next, the Wi-Fi device 100 transmits a fifth sounding packet 320 through the first antenna 114.1. In this example, the Wi-Fi device 100 may be configured to transmit the fifth sounding packet 320 with a different set of transmission parameters than the first sounding packet 308A, the second sounding packet 308B, the third sounding packet 314A, or the fourth sounding packet 314B. After the Wi-Fi device 100 transmits the fifth sounding packet 320 through the first antenna 114.1, the Wi-Fi device 100 may receive feedback 322. The feedback 322 may be any of the types of feedback described above with respect to the feedback 310.

[0045] In this example, after the Wi-Fi device 100 receives the feedback 322, the Wi-Fi device 100 selects the first antenna 114.1 and the transmission parameters associated with the fifth sounding packet 320. The process then moves to the data exchange phase 306 of the TXOP 302. In the data exchange phase 306, a PPDU transmission 324 transmits data from the Wi-Fi device 100 to the receiving Wi-Fi device using the transmission parameters of the first antenna 114.1 and the fifth sounding packet 320. The first antenna 114.1 may then receive feedback 326 from the receiving Wi-Fi device. Figure 3 As shown in , the Wi-Fi device 100 may be configured to perform all antenna selection and transmission parameter tuning phases 304 and data exchange phases 306 in a single TXOP 302 .

[0046] In other examples, Wi-Fi device 100 may use more than two antennas, and Wi-Fi device 100 may transmit any number of probe packets to tune transmission parameters. Wi-Fi device 100 may receive feedback from the probe packets and use to select the best antenna and transmission parameters for the communication medium.

[0047] Figure 44 is a timing diagram 400 of antenna and rate selection using PPDU bursts in various examples herein. Timing diagrams 200, 300, and 400 are shown as separate processes, but the probing Wi-Fi device may be configured to implement any combination of the techniques described with respect to timing diagrams 200, 300, and 400. Timing diagram 400 shows TXOP 402, in which the probing Wi-Fi device performs antenna and rate selection and optimization using consecutive multi-antenna probing PPDU bursts. In timing diagram 400, Wi-Fi device 100 selects an antenna to be used for the next transmission and optimizes transmission parameters according to the communication channel. In this example, Wi-Fi device 100 optimizes the first antenna using multiple probing packets. After the process is complete, Wi-Fi device 100 may use the optimized parameters as a starting point for the second antenna. A similar process may continue for any number of antennas. This iterative process may reduce the amount of probing packets used during the selection and optimization process compared to other examples.

[0048] The example of timing diagram 400 includes two antennas, namely, first antenna 114.1 and second antenna 114.2. In this example, TXOP 402 includes antenna selection and transmission parameter tuning phase 404 and data exchange phase 406. At the beginning of tuning phase 404, first antenna 114.1 transmits first probe packet 408 to a receiving Wi-Fi device, such as Wi-Fi device 116. Wi-Fi device 100 transmits first probe packet 408 with a certain set of transmission parameters. For example, first probe packet 408 may have a certain transmission power, a certain bit rate, a certain MCS, a certain format, etc. Wi-Fi device 100 may store the transmission parameters in a memory, such as memory 104, so Wi-Fi device 100 can track the performance of probe packets with different transmission parameters in order to evaluate channel conditions to find a suitable or optimal antenna and a suitable or optimal set of transmission parameters corresponding to the communication medium.

[0049] After the Wi-Fi device 100 transmits the first sounding packet 408, the first antenna 114.1 may receive feedback 410. The feedback 410 may be in the form of an ACK, NACK, CSI, etc. from the receiving Wi-Fi device, as described above. The Wi-Fi device 100 may store the feedback 410, for example, in the memory 104. The Wi-Fi device 100 may be configured to set antenna selection and transmission parameters based at least in part on the feedback 410 and another feedback.

[0050] exist Figure 4In the example of , after the Wi-Fi device 100 receives the feedback 410, the Wi-Fi device 100 transmits a second sounding packet 412A to the receiving Wi-Fi device using the first antenna 114.1. After the Wi-Fi device 100 transmits the second sounding packet 412A, the first antenna 114.1 may receive feedback 414. The feedback 414 may be any of the feedback types described above with respect to the feedback 410. As described above, the Wi-Fi device 100 may be configured to transmit a number of sounding packets from the first antenna 114.1 to optimize the transmission parameters for the first antenna 114.1. After the first antenna 114.1 transmits the sounding packet and the Wi-Fi device 100 optimizes the transmission parameters, the process moves to the second antenna, using the optimized transmission parameters as a starting point for the second antenna. The Wi-Fi device 100 may be configured to repeat the process using any number of sounding packets for any number of antennas until the Wi-Fi device 100 finds the optimal antenna and the optimal transmission parameters. Wi-Fi device 100 may be configured to perform these processes during a single TXOP, as described herein.

[0051] In timing diagram 400, optimization of the transmission parameters for first antenna 114.1 is completed after Wi-Fi device 100 receives feedback 414. The process then moves to second antenna 114.2, which transmits third probe packet 412B in this example. Third probe packet 412B has the same transmission parameters as second probe packet 412A. Second probe packet 412A includes optimized transmission parameters for first antenna 114.1, and Wi-Fi device 100 may use these transmission parameters as a starting point for second antenna 114.2.

[0052] After the Wi-Fi device 100 transmits the third probe packet 412B, the second antenna 114.2 receives feedback 416 from the Wi-Fi receiving device. Next, the second antenna 114.2 transmits a fourth probe packet 418. The fourth probe packet 418 has different transmission parameters than the first probe packet 408, the second probe packet 412A, or the third probe packet 412B. After the Wi-Fi device 100 transmits the fourth probe packet 418, the Wi-Fi device 100 receives feedback 420. The feedback 420 can be any of the feedback types described above with respect to the feedback 410.

[0053] In this example, the Wi-Fi device 100 determines that the second antenna 114.2 using the transmission parameters of the fourth sounding packet 418 is optimal for the communication medium. Therefore, the antenna selection and transmission parameter tuning phase 404 ends and the data exchange phase 406 begins. In the data exchange phase 406, a PPDU transmission 422 transmits data from the Wi-Fi device 100 to the receiving Wi-Fi device using the second antenna 114.2 and the transmission parameters of the fourth sounding packet 418. The second antenna 114.2 may then receive feedback 424 from the receiving Wi-Fi device. Figure 4 As shown in , Wi-Fi device 100 may be configured to perform all antenna selection and transmission parameter tuning phases 404 and data exchange phases 406 in a single TXOP 402 .

[0054] In the examples herein, the probing Wi-Fi device may be configured to use any number of probing packets to find the optimal transmission parameters. A trade-off may be made between quickly selecting appropriate transmission parameters or using a longer process to select the best or optimal parameters. The probing Wi-Fi device may use complex algorithms that utilize transmission power, bit rate, MCS, packet size, format, and other transmission parameters to optimize communications. Based on feedback from previous probing packets, the Wi-Fi device 100 may select the next best probing packet for transmission from any number of potential probing packets. Additionally or alternatively, the Wi-Fi device 100 may be configured to determine whether to send another probing PPDU based on the evaluation results. In some examples, the Wi-Fi device 100 may store the results in the memory 104.

[0055] Figure 5 is a flow chart of a method 500 for antenna selection in various examples herein. The steps of method 500 may be performed in any suitable order. Figure 1 The described hardware components can, in some examples, perform the method 500. In some examples, any suitable hardware or digital logic can perform the method 500.

[0056] Method 500 begins at 510, where a probing Wi-Fi device, such as Wi-Fi device 100, wins wireless access and obtains a TXOP on a Wi-Fi channel. The steps described in method 500 are performed at a single TXOP.

[0057] Method 500 continues at 520, where the probing Wi-Fi device transmits a probe packet to a receiving Wi-Fi device using the first antenna with the transmission parameter setting during the TXOP. The probe packet can be a packet such as the probe packet 208A described above. In various examples, the probe packet can include any number of transmission parameter settings.

[0058] Method 500 continues at 530 where the probing Wi-Fi device receives first feedback in response to transmitting the probing packet using the first antenna. The first feedback may be feedback such as feedback 210 described above.

[0059] Method 500 continues at 540, where the probing Wi-Fi device transmits a probe packet from the probing Wi-Fi device to the receiving Wi-Fi device using the second antenna during the TXOP with the transmission parameter setting. In this example, the probe packet can be a probe packet such as probe packet 208B, which has similar transmission parameters as probe packet 208A.

[0060] Method 500 continues at 550 where the probing Wi-Fi device receives second feedback in response to transmitting the probing packet using the second antenna. The second feedback may be feedback such as feedback 212 described above.

[0061] Method 500 continues at 560, where the detecting Wi-Fi device sets a transmission parameter set and selects an antenna based at least in part on the first feedback or the second feedback. The transmission parameter set may include any number or type of transmission parameters. For example, in Figure 2 2, the probing Wi-Fi device 100 transmits a PPDU transmission 214 to the receiving Wi-Fi device using the transmission parameter set of the probing packet 208B. In this example, the probing Wi-Fi device 100 uses the second antenna 114.2 for the PPDU transmission 214, but in another example, the probing Wi-Fi device 100 may use another antenna. In other examples, the probing Wi-Fi device 100 may use any number of antennas and send any number of probing packets before selecting the transmission parameters.

[0062] Figure 6 6 is a flow chart of a method 600 for antenna and rate selection in various examples herein. The steps of method 600 may be performed in any suitable order. Figure 1 The described hardware components can, in some examples, perform the method 600. In some examples, any suitable hardware or digital logic can perform the method 600.

[0063] Method 600 begins at 610, where a probing Wi-Fi device wins wireless access and obtains a TXOP on a Wi-Fi channel. The steps described in method 600 are performed at a single TXOP.

[0064] Method 600 continues at 620, where the probing Wi-Fi device transmits a first probing packet to a receiving Wi-Fi device using a first antenna with a first set of transmission parameters during the TXOP. For example, the Wi-Fi device transmits during TXOP 402 Figure 4The first detection packet 408 in.

[0065] Method 600 continues at 630 where the probing Wi-Fi device receives first feedback in response to transmitting the first probing packet using the first antenna. In one example, the first feedback can be feedback 410.

[0066] Method 600 continues at 640 where the probing Wi-Fi device transmits a second probing packet to the receiving Wi-Fi device using the first antenna with a second set of transmission parameters during the TXOP. In one example, the second probing packet can be second probing packet 412A.

[0067] Method 600 continues at 650 where the probing Wi-Fi device receives second feedback in response to transmitting the second probing packet using the first antenna. In one example, the second feedback can be feedback 414.

[0068] Method 600 continues at 660 where the probing Wi-Fi device transmits a second probing packet to the receiving Wi-Fi device using the second antenna with a second set of transmission parameters during the TXOP. For example, the probing Wi-Fi device transmits the second probing packet 412B using the second antenna 114.2.

[0069] Method 600 continues at 670 where the probing Wi-Fi device receives third feedback in response to transmitting the second probing packet using the second antenna. In one example, the third feedback can be feedback 416.

[0070] Method 600 continues at 680, where the probing Wi-Fi device sets one or more transmission parameters within the transmission parameter set based at least in part on the first feedback, the second feedback, or the third feedback. Figure 4 4 , the probing Wi-Fi device transmits a PPDU transmission 422 to the receiving Wi-Fi device using the transmission parameters of the probing packet 418. In this example, Wi-Fi device 100 uses second antenna 114.2 for PPDU transmission 422, but in another example, Wi-Fi device 100 may use another antenna. In other examples, Wi-Fi device 100 may use any number of antennas and send any number of probing packets before selecting transmission parameters.

[0071] Figure 7 700 is a flow chart of a method 700 for antenna and rate selection in various examples herein. The steps of method 700 may be performed in any suitable order. Figure 1 The described hardware components can, in some examples, perform the method 700. In some examples, any suitable hardware or digital logic can perform the method 700.

[0072] Method 700 describes that a memory, such as memory 104, stores instructions in a probing Wi-Fi device, such as Wi-Fi device 100. Wi-Fi device 100 includes a processor 102 coupled to a Wi-Fi transmitter 110 and a Wi-Fi receiver 112 in the probing Wi-Fi device 100. Wi-Fi transmitter 110 and Wi-Fi receiver 112 are configured to communicate via a Wi-Fi channel, such as link 118. Processor 102 is configured to execute instructions or logic 106 stored in memory 104 to perform the steps of method 700.

[0073] Method 700 begins at 710, where instructions cause Wi-Fi device 100 to obtain a TXOP on a Wi-Fi channel. The steps described in method 700 are performed at a single TXOP.

[0074] Method 700 continues at 720, where instructions cause Wi-Fi transmitter 110 to transmit a sounding packet to a receiving Wi-Fi device using the first antenna during the TXOP, wherein Wi-Fi transmitter 110 transmits the sounding packet with transmission parameters within the transmission parameter set. For example, first antenna 114.1 may be configured to transmit Figure 2 The detection packet 208A in .

[0075] Method 700 continues at 730 where the instructions cause Wi-Fi device 100 to receive first feedback at Wi-Fi receiver 112 in response to transmitting the sounding packet using the first antenna. In one example, the first feedback can be feedback 210.

[0076] Method 700 continues at 740, where the instructions cause Wi-Fi transmitter 110 to transmit a probe packet to a receiving Wi-Fi device using the second antenna during the TXOP, wherein Wi-Fi transmitter 110 transmits the probe packet with transmission parameters within the transmission parameter set. In this example, second antenna 114.2 transmits probe packet 208B to the receiving Wi-Fi device.

[0077] Method 700 continues at 750 where the instructions cause Wi-Fi device 100 to receive second feedback at Wi-Fi receiver 112 in response to transmitting the probe packet using the second antenna. In one example, the second feedback can be feedback 212.

[0078] Method 700 continues at 760 where the instructions cause a probing Wi-Fi device (eg, Wi-Fi device 100) to set transmission parameters within a transmission parameter set and a selected antenna based at least in part on the first feedback or the second feedback.

[0079] In the example herein, a single probing TXOP is performed, where the probing Wi-Fi device generates feedback for multiple antennas based on consecutive probing PPDUs during the single TXOP. Since antenna selection is performed during a single TXOP, antenna selection time is faster than in other examples because the Wi-Fi device does not have to repeatedly compete with other devices for the TXOP. In addition, the Wi-Fi device 100 can be configured to combine antenna selection and data transmission in a single TXOP, rather than applying the discovered transmission parameters to data transmission during the next TXOP. This process provides more efficient data transmission.

[0080] Furthermore, in some examples, the Wi-Fi device performs antenna selection and sounding for transmission parameters in a single TXOP. The Wi-Fi device 100 may be configured to change the antenna used for transmission during a TXOP rather than waiting for the next TXOP. In addition, the Wi-Fi device 100 may optimize multiple antennas during a single TXOP.

[0081] The term "coupled" is used throughout this specification. The term may encompass connections, communications, or signal paths that enable a functional relationship consistent with this description. For example, if device A generates a signal to control device B to perform an action, then: in a first instance, device A is coupled to device B; or in a second instance, device A is coupled to device B through an intermediate component C, provided that the intermediate component C does not substantially change the functional relationship between device A and device B, so that device B is controlled by device A via the control signal generated by device A.

[0082] A device "configured to" perform a task or function may be configured (e.g., programmed and / or hardwired) to perform the function when manufactured by a manufacturer, and / or may be configured (or reconfigurable) by a user after manufacture to perform the function and / or other additional or alternative functions. The configuration may be performed through firmware and / or software programming of the device, through the construction and / or layout of hardware components and interconnection of the device, or a combination thereof. Modifications of the described examples are possible, and other examples are possible, within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A method wherein include: Obtaining a transmission opportunity (TXOP) on a Wi-Fi channel in a probing Wi-Fi device; transmitting a probing packet from the probing Wi-Fi device to a receiving Wi-Fi device using a first antenna during the TXOP; receiving first feedback in response to transmitting the sounding packet using the first antenna; transmitting the probe packet from the probing Wi-Fi device to the receiving Wi-Fi device using a second antenna during the TXOP; receiving second feedback in response to transmitting the sounding packet using the second antenna; as well as A transmission parameter set and a selected antenna are set by the probing Wi-Fi device based at least in part on the first feedback or the second feedback.

2. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: include: After setting the transmission parameter set, data packets are sent by the probing Wi-Fi device to the receiving Wi-Fi device during the TXOP.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein the probing packet is a physical layer convergence protocol (PLCP) protocol data unit (PPDU). The method according to claim 1 , wherein the transmission parameter in the transmission parameter set is transmission power. The method of claim 1 , wherein the first feedback comprises channel state information (CSI). The method of claim 1 , wherein the transmission parameter within the transmission parameter set is a modulation and coding scheme (MCS). The method of claim 1 , wherein the first feedback is an acknowledgement (ACK). The method of claim 1 , wherein the first feedback is a negative acknowledgement (NACK).

9. The method according to claim 1, wherein the detection packet is a first detection packet, and the method further comprises: include: prior to setting the transmission parameter set, transmitting a second probe packet from the probing Wi-Fi device to the receiving Wi-Fi device using the first antenna during the TXOP, wherein the second probe packet is transmitted with transmission parameters in a new transmission parameter set that are different from transmission parameters in the transmission parameter set of the first probe packet; receiving third feedback in response to transmitting the second sounding packet using the first antenna; transmitting the second probing packet from the probing Wi-Fi device to the receiving Wi-Fi device using the second antenna during the TXOP; receiving fourth feedback in response to transmitting the second sounding packet using the second antenna; as well as A transmission parameter set is set by the probing Wi-Fi device based at least in part on the first feedback, the second feedback, the third feedback, or the fourth feedback.

10. A method, wherein include: Obtaining a transmission opportunity (TXOP) on a Wi-Fi channel in a probing Wi-Fi device; transmitting a first probe packet from the probing Wi-Fi device to a receiving Wi-Fi device using a first antenna during the TXOP, wherein the first probe packet is transmitted with a first set of transmission parameters; receiving first feedback in response to transmitting the first sounding packet using the first antenna; transmitting, during the TXOP, a second sounding packet from the probing Wi-Fi device to the receiving Wi-Fi device using the first antenna, wherein the second sounding packet is transmitted with a second set of transmission parameters; receiving second feedback in response to transmitting the second sounding packet using the first antenna; transmitting the second probe packet from the probing Wi-Fi device to the receiving Wi-Fi device using a second antenna during the TXOP, wherein the second probe packet is transmitted with the second set of transmission parameters; receiving third feedback in response to transmitting the second sounding packet using the second antenna; as well as One or more transmission parameters within a transmission parameter set are set by the probing Wi-Fi device based at least in part on the first feedback, the second feedback, or the third feedback.

11. The method according to claim 10, further comprising: include: After setting the one or more transmission parameters within the transmission parameter set, data packets are sent by the probing Wi-Fi device to the receiving Wi-Fi device during the TXOP.

12. The method of claim 10, wherein the first probing packet is a physical layer convergence protocol (PLCP) protocol data unit (PPDU). The method according to claim 10 , wherein the transmission parameter in the transmission parameter set is transmission power.

14. The method of claim 10, wherein the transmission parameter within the transmission parameter set is a modulation and coding scheme (MCS).

15. The method of claim 10, wherein the first feedback comprises channel state information (CSI).

16. The method according to claim 10, further comprising: include: prior to setting the one or more transmission parameters in the transmission parameter set, transmitting a third sounding packet from the probing Wi-Fi device to the receiving Wi-Fi device using the second antenna during the TXOP, wherein the third sounding packet is transmitted with third transmission parameters in a third transmission parameter set; receiving fourth feedback in response to transmitting the third sounding packet using the second antenna; as well as One or more transmission parameters within a transmission parameter set are set by the probing Wi-Fi device based at least in part on the first feedback, the second feedback, the third feedback, or the fourth feedback.

17. A system, wherein include: a memory storing instructions for detecting Wi-Fi devices; as well as a processor coupled to a Wi-Fi transmitter and a Wi-Fi receiver in the detecting Wi-Fi device, the Wi-Fi transmitter and the Wi-Fi receiver being configured to communicate via a Wi-Fi channel, the processor being configured to execute the instructions stored in the memory to perform the following operations: Obtain a transmission opportunity (TXOP) on a Wi-Fi channel; transmitting, by the Wi-Fi transmitter during the TXOP to a receiving Wi-Fi device using a first antenna, a sounding packet, wherein the sounding packet is transmitted with transmission parameters within a transmission parameter set; receiving first feedback at the Wi-Fi receiver in response to transmitting the probe packet using the first antenna; transmitting, by the Wi-Fi transmitter during the TXOP, the probe packet to the receiving Wi-Fi device using a second antenna, wherein the probe packet is transmitted with the transmission parameters within the transmission parameter set; receiving second feedback at the Wi-Fi receiver in response to transmitting the probe packet using the second antenna; as well as The transmission parameters and the selected antenna within the transmission parameter set are set by the probing Wi-Fi device based at least in part on the first feedback or the second feedback.

18. The system of claim 17, wherein the processor is further configured to execute the instructions stored in the memory to: After setting the transmission parameters within the transmission parameter set, data packets are transmitted by the Wi-Fi transmitter to the receiving Wi-Fi device during the TXOP.

19. The system of claim 17, wherein the probing packet is a physical layer convergence protocol (PLCP) protocol data unit (PPDU).

20. The system of claim 17, wherein the transmission parameter within the transmission parameter set is transmission power.

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