Processing of CSI-RS measurements

Abstract

The embodiment of the invention relates to a communication method and device and a computer readable storage medium. A method implemented at a first device includes determining, at the first device, a first timing of a channel state information reference signal from a target cell. The first device is configured by the second device to measure a channel state information reference signal. The method includes determining a second timing used by the first device to measure a channel state information reference signal. The method also includes determining a timing difference between the second timing and the first timing. The method further includes transmitting information regarding the measurement of the channel state information reference signal to the second device based on the timing difference.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the patent application with application number 202080104048.0 filed on August 12, 2020 and invention name “Processing of CSI-RS Measurement”. Technical Field

[0002] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate generally to the field of telecommunications, and in particular to devices, methods, and computer-readable storage media for processing of channel state information reference signal (CSI-RS) measurements. Background Art

[0003] CSI-RS has been designed for tracking and beam management and for Layer 3 (L3) mobility management and therefore for handover (HO) purposes. CSI-RS based L3 measurements can provide finer beam information compared to synchronization signal block (SSB) based measurements. Therefore, CSI-RS based L3 measurements enable network equipment to switch the user equipment (UE) directly to a finer beam in the target cell during the handover procedure. CSI-RS based L3 measurements are affected by network synchronization and the alignment of received signals from different cells at the UE. These aspects together raise the question of how to deal with when there are synchronization problems with CSI-RS based L3 measurements. Summary of the invention

[0004] In general, example embodiments of the present disclosure provide a solution for the processing of CSI-RS measurements.

[0005] In a first aspect, a first device is provided. The first device includes at least one processor; and at least one memory including computer program code; wherein the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, together with the at least one processor, cause the first device to: determine a first timing of a channel state information reference signal from a target cell, the first device being configured by a second device to measure the channel state information reference signal; determine a second timing used by the first device to measure the channel state information reference signal; determine a timing difference between the first timing and the second timing; and transmit information about the measurement of the channel state information reference signal to the second device based on the timing difference.

[0006] In a second aspect, a second device is provided. The second device includes at least one processor; and at least one memory including computer program code; wherein the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to cause the second device, together with the at least one processor, to: configure the first device to measure a channel state information reference signal from a target cell; and based on a timing difference between a first timing of the channel state information reference signal and a second timing used by the first device to measure the channel state information reference signal, receive information about the measurement of the channel state information reference signal from the first device.

[0007] In a third aspect, a method is provided. The method includes determining, at a first device, a first timing of a channel state information reference signal from a target cell, the first device being configured by a second device to measure the channel state information reference signal; determining a second timing used by the first device to measure the channel state information reference signal; determining a timing difference between the first timing and the second timing; and transmitting information about the measurement of the channel state information reference signal to the second device based on the timing difference.

[0008] In a fourth aspect, a method is provided. The method includes configuring a first device at a second device to measure a channel state information reference signal from a target cell; and receiving information about the measurement of the channel state information reference signal from the first device based on a timing difference between a first timing of the channel state information reference signal and a second timing used by the first device to measure the channel state information reference signal.

[0009] In a fifth aspect, a first device is provided. The first device includes a component for determining a first timing of a channel state information reference signal from a target cell, the first device being configured by a second device to measure the channel state information reference signal; a component for determining a second timing used by the first device to measure the channel state information reference signal; a component for determining a timing difference between the first timing and the second timing; and a component for transmitting information about the measurement of the channel state information reference signal to the second device based on the timing difference.

[0010] In a sixth aspect, a second apparatus is provided. The second apparatus includes a component for configuring the first apparatus to measure a channel state information reference signal from a target cell; and a component for receiving information about the measurement of the channel state information reference signal from the first apparatus based on a timing difference between a first timing of the channel state information reference signal and a second timing used by the first device to measure the channel state information reference signal.

[0011] In a seventh aspect, a computer readable medium is provided, wherein the computer readable medium comprises program instructions for causing an apparatus to at least perform the method according to the third aspect.

[0012] In an eighth aspect, a computer readable medium is provided, wherein the computer readable medium comprises program instructions for causing an apparatus to at least perform the method according to the fourth aspect.

[0013] It should be understood that the invention summary is not intended to determine the key or essential features of the embodiments of the present disclosure, nor is it intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. Other features of the present disclosure will become easily understood through the following description. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] Some example embodiments will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0015] Figure 1 shows an example communication network in which example embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented;

[0016] Figure 2 A schematic diagram showing the timing difference between different cells;

[0017] Figure 3 A flow chart illustrating an example process for processing CSI-RS measurements according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown;

[0018] Figure 4 A flow chart illustrating an example process for processing CSI-RS measurements according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown;

[0019] Figure 5 A flow chart illustrating an example process for processing CSI-RS measurements according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown;

[0020] Figure 6 A flow chart illustrating an example process for processing CSI-RS measurements according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown;

[0021] Figure 7 A flowchart illustrating an example method according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown;

[0022] Figure 8 A flowchart illustrating an example method according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown;

[0023] Fig. 9 shows a simplified block diagram of a device suitable for implementing an example embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0024] Fig.10 A block diagram of an example computer-readable medium is shown according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] Throughout the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals refer to the same or similar elements. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] The principle of the present disclosure will now be described with reference to some example embodiments. It should be understood that these embodiments are described only to illustrate and help those skilled in the art to understand and implement the present disclosure, and do not represent any limitation on the scope of the present disclosure. The disclosure described herein can be implemented in various other ways except the way described below.

[0027] In the following description and claims, unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs.

[0028] In this disclosure, references to "one embodiment," "an embodiment," and "an example embodiment," etc. indicate that the described embodiment may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but not every embodiment must include the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Furthermore, such phrases do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Furthermore, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in conjunction with an embodiment, those skilled in the art believe that it is within the knowledge of those skilled in the art to affect such feature, structure, or characteristic in conjunction with other embodiments, whether or not explicitly described.

[0029] It should be understood that although the terms "first" and "second" etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another element. For example, a first element may be referred to as a second element, and similarly, a second element may be referred to as a first element without departing from the scope of the exemplary embodiments. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the listed terms.

[0030] The terms used herein are only used to describe specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the example embodiments. As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" also include the plural forms, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It is further understood that the terms "comprises", "comprising", "has", "having", "includes", and / or "including" when used herein specify the presence of the features, elements, and / or components, etc., but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, elements, components, and / or combinations thereof.

[0031] As used in this application, the term "circuitry" may refer to one, more, or all of the following:

[0032] (a) a pure hardware circuit implementation (such as an implementation using only analog and / or digital circuitry), and

[0033] (b) a combination of hardware circuitry and software such as (where applicable):

[0034] (i) a combination of analog and / or digital hardware circuits and software / firmware, and

[0035] (ii) any portion of hardware processor(s) (including digital signal processor(s)), software and memory(s) with software that work together to cause a device (such as a mobile phone or server) to perform various functions,

[0036] as well as

[0037] (c) Hardware circuits and / or processor(s), such as microprocessor(s) or portions of microprocessor(s), that require software (e.g., firmware) to operate, but which may not be present when the software is not required for operation.

[0038] This definition of circuitry applies to all uses of the term in this application, including in any claims. As another example, as used in this application, the term circuitry also covers an implementation of only a hardware circuit or processor (or multiple processors) or a portion of a hardware circuit or processor and its (or their) accompanying software and / or firmware. For example, if applicable to a particular claim element, the term circuitry also covers a baseband integrated circuit or processor integrated circuit for a mobile device, or a similar integrated circuit in a server, cellular network device, or other computing or network device.

[0039] As used herein, the term "communication network" refers to a network that complies with any suitable communication standard, such as Long Term Evolution (LTE), Advanced LTE (LTE-a), Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA), High Speed ​​Packet Access (HSPA), Narrowband Internet of Things (NB-IoT), etc. In addition, the communication between the terminal device and the network device in the communication network can be performed according to any suitable generation of communication protocol, including but not limited to the first generation (1G), second generation (2G), 2.5G, 2.75G, third generation (3G), fourth generation (4G), 4.5G, future fifth generation (5G) communication protocol, and / or any other protocol currently known or to be developed in the future. The embodiments of the present disclosure can be applied to various communication systems. In view of the rapid development of communication, there will certainly be future types of communication technologies and systems that can embody the present disclosure. The scope of the present disclosure should not be limited to the above-mentioned systems.

[0040] As used herein, the term "network device" refers to a node in a communication network through which a terminal device accesses the network and receives services from the network. A network device may refer to a base station (BS) or an access point (AP), for example, a NodeB (NodeB or NB), an evolved NodeB (eNodeB or eNB), a NR NB (also known as a gNB), a remote radio unit (RRU), a radio head (RH), a remote radio head (RRH), a relay, a low power node (such as a femto, a pico), etc., depending on the terminology and technology applied.

[0041] The term "terminal device" refers to any terminal device capable of wireless communication. As an example and not limitation, a terminal device may also be referred to as a communication device, a user equipment (UE), a subscriber station (SS), a portable subscriber station, a mobile station (MS), or an access terminal (AT). The terminal device may include, but is not limited to, a mobile phone, a cellular phone, a smart phone, a voice over IP (VoIP) phone, a wireless local loop phone, a tablet computer, a wearable terminal device, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a portable computer, a desktop computer, an image capture terminal device (such as a digital camera), a game terminal device, a music storage and playback device, a vehicle-mounted wireless terminal device, a wireless endpoint, a mobile station, a laptop embedded device (LEE), a laptop vehicle-mounted device (LME), a USB dongle, a smart device, a wireless customer premises equipment (CPE), an Internet of Things (IoT) device, a watch or other wearable device, a head-mounted display (HMD), a vehicle, a drone, medical equipment and applications (e.g., remote surgery), industrial equipment and applications (e.g., robots and / or other wireless devices operating in the context of an industrial and / or automated processing chain), consumer electronic devices, devices operating on commercial and / or industrial wireless networks, etc. In the following description, the terms "terminal device", "communication device", "terminal", "user equipment" and "UE" may be used interchangeably.

[0042] As used herein, a measurement is defined as "CSI-RS-based intra-frequency measurement" or "intra-frequency measurement" for short if one or more of the following are satisfied: the subcarrier spacing (SCS) of the CSI-RS resources on the neighboring cell configured for the measurement is the same as the subcarrier spacing of the CSI-RS resources on the serving cell indicated for the measurement; the cyclic prefix (CP) type of the CSI-RS resources on the neighboring cell configured for the measurement is the same as the CP type of the CSI-RS resources on the serving cell indicated for the measurement; and the center frequency of the CSI-RS resources on the neighboring cell configured for the measurement is the same as the center frequency of the CSI-RS on the serving cell indicated for the measurement. Otherwise, the measurement is defined as "CSI-RS-based inter-frequency measurement" or "inter-frequency measurement" for short.

[0043] Figure 1 1 shows an example communication environment 100 in which embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented. Figure 1 As shown, environment 100 includes a first device 110, a second device 120, and a third device 130. In some example embodiments, first device 110 may be a terminal device, second device 120 may be a network device serving first device 110, and third device 130 may be a network device adjacent to second device 110. Second device 120 provides cell 121 for first device 110, and cell 121 may be referred to as serving cell 121. Third device 130 provides cell 131 for first device 110, and cell 131 may also be referred to as target cell 131. In some example embodiments, target cell 130 is a neighboring cell.

[0044] It should be understood that Figure 1 The number and type of the first device, the second device, and the third device shown are for illustration purposes only, without any limitation. Environment 100 may include any suitable number and type of first devices, second devices, and third devices suitable for implementing embodiments of the present disclosure. For example, in some other example embodiments, the third device may not exist, and both the target cell 131 and the serving cell 121 are provided by the second device 120.

[0045] like Figure 1 As shown, the first device 110, the second device 120, and the third device 130 may communicate with each other. For example, the second device 120 and the third device 130 may transmit a reference signal (e.g., CSI-RS) on a predetermined resource, and the first device 110 may receive the reference signal based on the configuration information about the predetermined resource. In addition, the first device 110 may measure the reference signal and transmit the measurement result to the second device 120.

[0046] Communications in the communication environment 100 may be implemented according to any appropriate communication protocol(s), including but not limited to cellular communication protocols such as first generation (1G), second generation (2G), third generation (3G), fourth generation (4G), and fifth generation (5G), wireless local network communication protocols such as Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.11, and / or any other protocol currently known or to be developed in the future. In addition, communications may utilize any appropriate wireless communication technology, including but not limited to: code division multiple access (CDMA), frequency division multiple access (FDMA), time division multiple access (TDMA), frequency division duplex (FDD), time division duplex (TDD), multiple input multiple output (MIMO), orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM), discrete Fourier transform spread OFDM (DFT-s-OFDM), and / or any other technology currently known or to be developed in the future.

[0047] Second device 120 may configure first device 110 to measure at least a CSI-RS from target cell 131. In some example embodiments, second device 120 may configure first device 110 to measure a CSI-RS from a set of cells including target cell 131. Hereinafter, such cells may be collectively referred to as “cells to be measured” or individually referred to as “cells to be measured”.

[0048] For example, the measurement requirements for CSI-RS based L3 measurements include CSI-RS measurement bandwidth for minimum requirements, intra-frequency and inter-frequency definitions based on CSI-RS, intra-frequency and inter-frequency measurement requirements, accuracy assessment and specifications, additional UE measurement capabilities (including the number of frequency layers and the number of cells), and performance requirements. In addition, in terms of assumptions about synchronization, in some scenarios, for both intra-frequency and inter-frequency measurements, a single Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) can be assumed for multiple cell measurements per frequency layer.

[0049] Currently, the information element (IE) CSI-RS-ResourceConfigMobility is used to configure CSI-RS based L3 measurements. The network can configure the UE to perform L3 CSI-RS for mobility by configuring the IE CSI-RS-ResourceConfigMobility for the UE. This IE can be included in the carrier-specific MeasObjectNR. Therefore, the network can configure CSI-RS for L3 mobility for one or more carriers. The IE CSI-RS-ResourceConfigMobility indicates the CSI-RS resources to be measured in the corresponding (multiple) cells on a given carrier, and each CSI-RS resource is identified by an index.

[0050] If associatedSSB is configured, the UE shall base the timing of the CSI-RS resources indicated in CSI-RS-Resource-Mobility on the timing of the cell indicated by cellId in CSI-RS-CellMobility. In this case, the UE needs to detect the cell (SS / PBCH block) indicated by the associatedSSB and cellId before being able to measure the associated CSI-RS.

[0051] As the configuration options are very flexible, it was agreed to define the requirements for CSI-RS based measurements in Rel 16 in a limited scope. This requirement is defined in Rel 16 only when associated SSB is configured and detected. The motivation is to not limit the overall usage of CSI-RS based measurements for L3 mobility to only synchronization scenarios.

[0052] When associatedSSB is configured, the UE is not required to measure the associated CSI-RS resources for L3 mobility before the SS / PBCH block indicated by the associatedSSB and cellId is detected. Therefore, before the UE can perform measurements on the corresponding CSI-RS resources (for L3 measurements), the UE needs to detect the associatedSSB to obtain the timing information of the target cell. The target cell to be measured may or may not be synchronized with the serving cell.

[0053] However, as described above, there is a synchronization assumption of a single FFT. That is, a single FFT is used by the UE to enable simultaneous processing of CSI-RS (for L3 measurements) from multiple neighboring cells on one carrier.

[0054] If it is assumed that there is no synchronization between cells, there may be a timing difference between the CSI-RS resources to be measured at the UE and the timing of a single FFT. This will complicate the use of a single FFT at the UE side to perform the necessary measurements. For example, Figure 2 A schematic diagram 200 is shown of timing differences between different cells. Figure 2 In the example shown, the UE may apply a single FFT within window 201. Under the above assumptions about synchronization, the UE may apply a single FFT to decode CSI-RS 211 and 212 from the first neighboring cell and CSI-RS 221 and 222 from the second neighboring cell.

[0055] For CSI-RS based intra-frequency measurements, it can be assumed that the UE is using the timing of the serving cell for a single FFT. Figure 2 As shown, there may be a timing difference T1 between the serving cell and the first neighboring cell. There may be a different timing difference T2 between the serving cell and the second neighboring cell. If the timing difference exceeds a certain threshold, such as the length of multiple CPs, the CSI-RS measurement performance may be degraded.

[0056] The degradation of CSI-RS measurement performance due to timing difference may involve several aspects. One aspect is the cell phase synchronization accuracy on the network side, that is, the degree of synchronization of the cell on the network side. Currently, the Third Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) has defined a maximum cell phase synchronization accuracy of 3us in TS 38.133. On the other hand is the impact of downlink (DL) transmission delays from the network to the UE from different cells. Such DL transmission delays will also affect the cell synchronization observed on the UE side and whether the cell to be measured is considered to be well synchronized. Such DL transmission delays are unknown on the network side and the UE side and cannot be set to a fixed value because it depends on the air interface and channel conditions.

[0057] Therefore, the impact due to timing differences needs to be considered under a single FFT assumption. However, from the perspective of UE measurement, none of the existing solutions address the synchronization issue. A solution is needed to address CSI-RS measurements and related UE behaviors related to CSI-RS measurements and reporting of CSI-RS measurements.

[0058] According to some example embodiments of the present disclosure, a solution for processing CSI-RS-based L3 measurements is provided. In this solution, a first device determines a first timing of a CSI-RS from a target cell. The first device is configured by a second device to measure the CSI-RS from the target cell. Then, the first device determines a second timing used by the first device to measure the CSI-RS. Then, the first device determines a timing difference between the first timing and the second timing. The first device transmits information related to the measurement of the CSI-RS to the second device based on the timing difference, which information may be referred to as CSI-RS measurement hereinafter. As used herein, the expression "measure CSI-RS" and its variants mean performing measurements on CSI-RS resources.

[0059] In this solution, the behavior of the terminal device (e.g., UE) with respect to CSI-RS measurements is specified based on the timing difference (e.g., the timing difference observed at the UE). This solution can reduce the impact due to large timing differences, especially under the assumption of a single FFT on the UE side. In this way, when / if synchronization problems with CSI-RS measurements occur, the degradation of the reported CSI-RS measurements can be known or avoided on the network side.

[0060] In some example embodiments, if the timing difference is below a threshold, the first device may perform a measurement of the CSI-RS and report the result of the CSI-RS measurement to the second device. If the timing difference exceeds the threshold, the first device may not perform the CSI-RS measurement and indicate to the second device that the CSI-RS cannot or has not been measured due to the timing difference exceeding the threshold. Alternatively, if the timing difference exceeds the threshold, the first device may keep monitoring the timing difference. If the timing difference becomes below the threshold, the first device may perform the CSI-RS measurement.

[0061] In such an example embodiment, it is ensured that the CSI-RS measurement results reported by the first device have qualified accuracy. If the timing difference is large, unnecessary CSI-RS measurement work can be reduced or even avoided at the first device (e.g., at the UE side). In addition, the indication to the second device (e.g., the network device) can help the second device understand the problem and not configure measurements on the target cell. In addition, it can help the second device know the quality or accuracy of the reported measurements from the first device.

[0062] In some example embodiments, the first device may perform CSI-RS measurement and report the result of the CSI-RS measurement regardless of whether the timing difference exceeds the threshold. In this case, the first device may further indicate to the second device whether the timing difference exceeds the threshold, such as in the measurement result, in the measurement report, or using some other separate message.

[0063] In such an example embodiment, the result of the CSI-RS measurement is reported to the second device together with an indication of whether the timing difference exceeds a threshold. In this way, the second device (e.g., a network device) can know whether the reported result is accurate. For example, the reported result can maintain a specific value or indication indicating whether the reported result is accurate.

[0064] Some example embodiments are described in detail below. Figure 3 FIG. 3 is a flow chart showing an example process 300 for processing CSI-RS measurements according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. For ease of discussion, reference will be made to Figure 1 Process 300 is described. Process 300 involves at least the following: Figure 1 A first device 110 and a second device 120 are shown.

[0065] As shown, the second device 120 configures 305 the first device 110 to measure a CSI-RS from a target cell 131, which may be referred to as a "target CSI-RS". The second device 120 may transmit a configuration regarding the CSI-RS measurement to the first device 110. The configuration regarding the CSI-RS measurement may include an indication of an SSB associated with the configured CSI-RS, which may also be referred to as an "associated SSB". For example, the second device 120 may transmit an IE CSI-RS-ResourceConfigMobility or other suitable IE to the first device 110, which may include an index of an associated SSB. In some example embodiments, in addition to the target cell 131, the second device 120 may configure the first device 110 to measure CSI-RS from one or more other cells.

[0066] The first device 110 determines 310 the timing of the CSI-RS from the target cell 131 (also referred to as "first timing"). The first timing may be the DL timing of the target cell 131 and may be determined in any suitable manner. In one example, the first timing may be determined based on the associated SSB of the target cell 131. The associated SSB of the target cell 131 may be configured. For example, the index of the associated SSB may be included in the configuration regarding the CSI-RS measurement. The first device 110 may detect the associated SSB of the CSI-RS resource in the target cell 131 and determine the first timing based on the associated SSB. In this way, the timing of the associated SSB is determined, and therefore the timing of the CSI-RS from the target cell 131 is determined.

[0067] The first device 110 determines 312 a second timing used by the first device 110 to measure the CSI-RS. The second timing may be considered as a reference timing used by the first device 110 when measuring the CSI-RS. For example, under the assumption of a single FFT, the second timing may be the timing of a single FFT to be applied to decode the CSI-RS.

[0068] In some example embodiments, first device 110 may determine the second timing based on timing information of serving cell 121. For example, the second timing may be determined based on the SSB of serving cell 121. If the measurement of the target CSI-RS is an intra-frequency measurement, the second timing may be determined based on the SSB of serving cell 121.

[0069] In some example embodiments, the first device 110 may determine a reference cell from a set of cells to be measured, the set of cells including the target cell 131. The second device 120 may have configured the first device 110 to measure CSI-RS from the set of cells on the carrier. The first device 110 may then determine the second timing based on the timing information of the reference cell. As an example, if the measurement of the target CSI-RS is an inter-frequency measurement, the second timing (i.e., the timing for measuring the CSI-RS resources on the carrier) may be determined based on the timing of the reference cell to be measured instead of the serving cell 121. For example, the second timing may be determined based on the associated SSB of the reference cell.

[0070] In the case of inter-frequency measurement, the second timing may be determined using any suitable method, for example, the timing of a single FFT assuming a single FFT. As an example, the first device 110 may determine the second timing based on the timing of the cell with the highest signal strength in the cell set. As another example, the first device 110 may determine the second timing based on the timing of the first cell detected by the first device 110 in the cell set. As another example, the first device 110 may determine the second timing based on the timing of the cell with the highest or lowest index in the cell set. As another example, the first device 110 may determine the second timing based on the timing of the cell aligned with as many other cells as possible. Alternatively, the first device 110 may determine the second timing by applying a timing offset to the timing of the cell so that as many CSI-RS resources as possible are measured with a timing difference within a threshold.

[0071] continue Figure 3 , first device 110 determines 315 a timing difference between the first timing and the second timing. In some example embodiments, such as in the case of intra-frequency measurement, the timing difference between the first timing and the second timing may represent a timing difference between serving cell 121 and target cell 131. In these example embodiments, first device 110 may determine the timing difference based on an SSB of serving cell 121 and an associated SSB of a CSI-RS resource in target cell 131.

[0072] In some other example embodiments, such as in the case of inter-frequency measurement, the timing difference between the first timing and the second timing may represent a timing difference between target cell 131 and a reference cell determined from the set of cells to be measured. In these example embodiments, first device 110 may determine the timing difference based on an associated SSB of target cell 131 and an SSB of the reference cell.

[0073] The first device 110 transmits 320 information about the measurement of the target CSI-RS to the second device 120 based on the timing difference. The specific content of the transmitted information may depend on whether the timing difference requirement is met. For example, if the timing difference is below a threshold, the timing difference requirement is met. For example, the threshold may be a CP, half of a CP, or a plurality of CPs.

[0074] In some example embodiments, based on whether the timing difference is below a threshold, the first device 110 may determine or the second device 120 may indicate whether the first device 110 is to perform and report measurement of the target CSI-RS. For example, the first device 110 may perform measurement of the target CSI-RS and report the measurement result only when the timing difference is below the threshold. If the timing difference exceeds the threshold, the first device 110 may not perform measurement of the target CSI-RS and indicate the failure of the measurement of the target CSI-RS to the second device 120. In other words, the first device 110 should not measure or report measurement of CSI-RS from cells where the timing difference requirement is not met. Such example embodiments will refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 Describe in detail.

[0075] In some example embodiments, first device 110 may perform or be instructed by second device 120 to perform measurement of the target CSI-RS and report the measurement result regardless of whether the timing difference exceeds the threshold. In such an example embodiment, first device 110 may further indicate to second device 120 whether the timing difference exceeds the threshold. Such an example embodiment will refer to Figure 6 Describe in detail.

[0076] Figure 4 4 is a flowchart of an example process 400 for processing CSI-RS measurements according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure. Example process 400 may be considered a specific implementation of process 300. Process 400 at least involves: Figure 1 The first device 110, the second device 120 and the third device 130 are shown. Figure 4 As shown, in process 400 , the third device 130 may transmit an SSB (eg, including an associated SSB) and a CSI-RS (eg, a target CSI-RS) from the target cell 131 to the first device 110 .

[0077] As shown, the second device 120 configures 305 the first device 110 to measure a target CSI-RS from the target cell 131 provided by the third device 130. The first device 110 detects 410 an associated SSB 405 for the target CSI-RS to obtain the timing of the target cell 131. In this way, the first timing of the target CSI-RS is determined as the timing of the associated SSB, i.e., the timing of the target cell 131.

[0078] The first device 110 determines 412 a second timing used by the first device 110 to measure the CSI-RS. The second timing may be as described above with respect to Figure 3 The second timing may be determined as described in action 312 of . For example, in the case of intra-frequency measurement, the second timing may be determined as the timing of the serving cell 121, for example, based on the SSB of the serving cell 121. In the case of inter-frequency measurement, the second timing may be determined as the timing of a reference cell from the set of cells to be measured. For example, the second timing may be determined based on the SSB of the reference cell.

[0079] The first device 110 determines 415 a timing difference between the first timing and the second timing. The timing difference may be as described above with reference to Figure 3 For example, in the case of intra-frequency measurement, the first device 110 may determine the timing difference based on the associated SSB of the target cell 131 and the SSB of the serving cell 121. In the case of inter-frequency measurement, the first device 110 may determine the timing difference based on the associated SSB of the target cell 131 and the SSB of the reference cell.

[0080] In block 420, the first device 110 determines whether the timing difference is below a threshold. If the timing difference is below a threshold, the process 400 proceeds to block 401. As shown, the first device 110 may measure 425 a CSI-RS 422 from a target cell 131 provided by a third device 130. In other words, the first device 110 may perform a measurement of the CSI-RS 422. The first device 110 may then transmit 430 the result of the measurement of the CSI-RS 422 to the second device 120. For example, the first device 110 may transmit a measurement report to the second device 120. Therefore, the result of the CSI-RS measurement received at the second device may have a qualified accuracy. Therefore, the performance of the CSI-RS measurement may be ensured.

[0081] If in box 420, the first device 110 determines that the timing difference exceeds the threshold, the process 400 proceeds to box 402. As shown, the first device 110 may transmit 435 to the second device 120 an indication that the CSI-RS from the target cell 131 cannot be measured or cannot be measured with qualified accuracy because the timing difference exceeds the threshold. For illustrative purposes only, and not limited to the scope of the present disclosure, such an indication may be referred to as a "failure indication" hereinafter. The failure indication may indicate to the second device 120 a failure in the measurement of the CSI-RS from the target cell 131. After receiving the failure indication, the second device 120 may deconfigure the CSI-RS measurement on the target cell 131. For example, the second device 120 may transmit 440 an indication (also referred to as a "configuration indication") to the first device 110 to disable the measurement of the CSI-RS from the target cell 131.

[0082] Figure 5 1 is a flow chart of an example process 500 for processing CSI-RS measurements according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Example process 500 may be considered a specific implementation of process 300. Process 500 at least involves: Figure 1 The first device 110, the second device 120 and the third device 130 are shown. Figure 5 As shown, in process 500, the third device 130 may transmit an SSB (eg, including an associated SSB) and a CSI-RS (eg, a target CSI-RS) from the target cell 131 to the first device 110. Only the differences between process 400 and process 500 are described.

[0083] If, at block 420, the first device 110 determines that the timing difference exceeds the threshold, the process 500 proceeds to block 502. Instead of immediately indicating the failure of the CSI-RS measurement to the second device 120, the first device 110 may keep track of the timing difference. Figure 5 As shown, in block 502, the first device 110 may keep track of the timing of the target cell 131 for a certain period of time. For example, a timer may be started when it is determined that the timing difference exceeds a threshold. If the timing difference is below the threshold within the time period or before the timer expires, the first device 110 may perform a measurement of the CSI-RS from the target cell 131 and report the measurement result to the second device 120. If the timing difference still exceeds the threshold until the end of the time period, the first device 110 may indicate to the second device 120 that the target CSI-RS and / or the target cell 131 cannot be measured or cannot be measured with qualified accuracy.

[0084] As shown, the first device 110 may detect 535 an associated SSB 530 from the target cell 131 to obtain an updated first timing. In other words, the updated timing of the target cell 131 may be obtained. In this way, the first device 110 may update the timing difference based on the updated first timing and the second timing. In block 540, the first device 110 may determine whether the updated timing difference drops below a threshold. If the updated timing difference drops below the threshold within the time period or before the timer expires, the process 500 proceeds to block 503. The first device 110 may measure 545 a CSI-RS from the target cell 131. In other words, the first device 110 may perform a measurement of the CSI-RS. Then, the first device 110 may transmit 550 the result of the measurement of the CSI-RS to the second device 120. For example, the first device 110 may transmit a measurement report to the second device 120. Therefore, the result of the CSI-RS measurement received at the second device 120 may have a qualified accuracy. Therefore, the performance of the CSI-RS measurement may be ensured.

[0085] If, at block 540, the first device 110 determines that the timing difference still exceeds the threshold until the end of the time period, the first device 110 may transmit 555 a failure indication to the second device 120, indicating that the CSI-RS from the target cell 131 cannot be measured or cannot be measured with acceptable accuracy because the timing difference exceeds the threshold. The failure indication may indicate to the second device 120 a failure in the measurement of the CSI-RS from the target cell 131. Although not shown, the second device 120 may deconfigure the CSI-RS measurement on the target cell 131 after receiving the failure indication. For example, the second device 120 may transmit a configuration indication to the first device 110 to disable the measurement of the CSI-RS from the target cell 131.

[0086] In reference Figure 4 and Figure 5 In the above example embodiments described, the principle is to measure the configured CSI-RS from the target cell based on the timing difference. For example, for intra-frequency measurement, based on the timing difference between the serving cell and the target cell, if the timing difference is below a defined threshold, only the first device (e.g., UE) is required to measure the configured CSI-RS for L3. Otherwise, the first device does not need to measure the CSI-RS for L3 from the target cell. The first device should not report any measurements of the L3 CSI-RS from cells where the timing difference requirement is not met.

[0087] In such an example embodiment, the accuracy of the reported results of the CSI-RS measurement can be ensured. If the timing difference is large, unnecessary efforts for CSI-RS measurement can be avoided at the first device (e.g., at the UE side). Additionally, the indication to the second device (e.g., the network device) can help the second device understand the problem and not configure measurements on the target cell.

[0088] Figure 6 6 is a flowchart of an example process 600 for processing CSI-RS measurements according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Example process 600 may be considered a specific implementation of process 300. Process 600 involves at least the following steps: Figure 1 The first device 110, the second device 120 and the third device 130 are shown. Figure 6 As shown, in process 600, the third device 130 may transmit an SSB (eg, including an associated SSB) and a CSI-RS (eg, a target CSI-RS) from the target cell 131 to the first device 110. Only the differences between process 400 and process 600 are described.

[0089] At block 420, the first device 110 determines whether the timing difference is below a threshold. Then, the process 600 proceeds to block 601. As shown, the first device 110 may measure 625 a CSI-RS 620 from a target cell 131 provided by a third device 130. In other words, the first device 110 may perform a measurement of the CSI-RS 620. Then, the first device 110 may transmit 630 to the second device 120 the result of the measurement of the CSI-RS 620 and an indication of whether the timing difference is below a threshold (also referred to as a "timing indication") . For example, the first device 110 may transmit a measurement report to the second device 120. The first device 110 may add a specific value to the measurement report. The specific value may implicitly indicate that the CSI-RS is measured when the timing difference threshold is not met or when there is a problematic timing difference. Alternatively, the first device 110 may transmit the measured result and additionally transmit an indication that the CSI-RS is measured when the timing difference threshold is not met or when there is a problematic timing difference. In this way, the second device (e.g., a network device) may know whether the reported result is accurate. In some example embodiments, if the timing indication indicates that the timing difference exceeds the threshold, the second device 120 may deconfigure the CSI-RS measurement on the target cell 131. For example, the second device 120 may transmit a configuration indication to the first device 110 to disable the measurement of the CSI-RS from the target cell 131.

[0090] In example processes 400, 500, and 600, second device 120 and third device 130 are shown, respectively. In some example embodiments, second device 120 and third device 130 may be the same, and the actions described with respect to second device 120 may be performed in a serving cell, and the actions described with respect to third device 130 may be performed in another cell.

[0091] Figure 7 FIG. 7 is a flowchart of an example method 700 implemented at the first device 110 according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure. For the purpose of discussion, the method 700 will be described with respect to FIG. Figure 1 The method 700 is described from the perspective of the first device 110 .

[0092] At block 710, first device 110 determines a first timing of a channel state information reference signal from a target cell. First device 110 is configured by second device 120 to measure the channel state information reference signal. In some example embodiments, first device 110 may detect a synchronization signal block of the target cell associated with the channel state information reference signal; and determine the first timing based on the synchronization signal block.

[0093] At block 720 , first device 110 determines a second timing used by first device 110 to measure the channel state information reference signal. In some example embodiments, first device 110 may determine the second timing based on timing information of serving cell 121 provided by second device 120 .

[0094] In some example embodiments, first device 110 may determine a cell from a set of cells including the target cell. First device 100 is configured to measure a channel state information reference signal from the set of cells. First device 110 may determine the second timing based on timing information of the determined cell.

[0095] At block 730, the first device 110 determines a timing difference between the first timing and the second timing. At block 740, based on the timing difference, the first device 110 transmits information on measurement of a channel state information reference signal to the second device 120.

[0096] In some example embodiments, if the timing difference is below the threshold, first device 110 may perform measurement of a channel state information reference signal; and transmit a result of the measurement to second device 120 .

[0097] In some example embodiments, if the timing difference exceeds the threshold, first device 110 may transmit an indication that the timing difference exceeds the threshold to second device 120. In some example embodiments, first device 110 may receive a configuration indication from second device 120 to disable measurement of a channel state information reference signal.

[0098] In some example embodiments, if the timing difference exceeds the threshold, the first device 110 may acquire an updated first timing from the target cell; update the timing difference based on the updated first timing and the second timing. If the updated timing difference drops below the threshold within the time period, the first device 110 may perform measurement of a channel state information reference signal; and transmit the result of the measurement to the second device 120. In some example embodiments, if the updated timing difference exceeds the threshold within the time period, the first device 110 may transmit an indication that the timing difference exceeds the threshold to the second device 120. In some example embodiments, the first device 110 may also receive a configuration indication from the second device 120 for disabling measurement of a channel state information reference signal.

[0099] In some example embodiments, first device 110 may perform measurement of a channel state information reference signal; and transmit a result of the measurement and a timing indication of whether the timing difference exceeds a threshold to second device 120. In some example embodiments, the timing indication may indicate that the timing difference exceeds the threshold. First device 110 may receive a configuration indication from second device 120 to disable measurement of a channel state information reference signal.

[0100] Figure 8 FIG. 8 is a flowchart of an example method 800 implemented at a second device according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 1 The method 800 is described from the perspective of the second device 120 .

[0101] At block 810, the second device 120 configures the first device 110 to measure a channel state information reference signal from the target cell. At block 820, the second device 120 receives information about the measurement of the channel state information reference signal from the first device 110 based on a timing difference between a first timing of the channel state information reference signal and a second timing used by the first device 110 to measure the channel state information reference signal.

[0102] In some example embodiments, the second device 120 may receive the result of the measurement from the first device 110 .

[0103] In some example embodiments, second device 120 may receive an indication from first device 110 that the timing difference exceeds a threshold. In some example embodiments, second device 120 may transmit a configuration indication to first device 110 to disable measurement of a channel state information reference signal.

[0104] In some example embodiments, second device 120 may receive from first device 110 a result of the measurement and a timing indication of whether the timing difference exceeds a threshold.

[0105] In some example embodiments, if the timing indication indicates that the timing difference exceeds a threshold, the second device 120 may transmit a configuration indication to the first device 110 to disable measurement of a channel state information reference signal.

[0106] In some example embodiments, a first device (e.g., first device 110) capable of performing any of method 700 may include a component for performing the corresponding operation of method 700. The component may be implemented in any suitable form. For example, the component may be implemented in a circuit system or a software module. The first device may be implemented as first device 110 or included in first device 110.

[0107] In some example embodiments, the first device includes a component for determining a first timing of a channel state information reference signal from a target cell, the first device being configured by the second device to measure the channel state information reference signal; a component for determining a second timing used by the first device to measure the channel state information reference signal; a component for determining a timing difference between the first timing and the second timing; and a component for transmitting information about the measurement of the channel state information reference signal to the second device based on the timing difference.

[0108] In some example embodiments, the means for determining the first timing includes means for detecting a synchronization signal block of the target cell associated with a channel state information reference signal; and means for determining the first timing based on the synchronization signal block.

[0109] In some example embodiments, the means for determining the second timing comprises means for determining the second timing based on timing information of a serving cell provided by the second apparatus.

[0110] In some example embodiments, the means for determining the second timing includes means for determining a cell from a set of cells including a target cell, the first device being configured to measure a channel state information reference signal from the set of cells; and means for determining the second timing based on timing information of the determined cell.

[0111] In some example embodiments, the means for transmitting information includes means for performing measurement of a channel state information reference signal based on a determination that the timing difference is below a threshold; and means for transmitting a result of the measurement to the second apparatus.

[0112] In some example embodiments, the means for transmitting information comprises means for transmitting, to the second apparatus, an indication that the timing difference exceeds the threshold value in accordance with the determination that the timing difference exceeds the threshold value. In some example embodiments, the first apparatus further comprises means for receiving a configuration indication from the second apparatus to disable measurement of a channel state information reference signal.

[0113] In some example embodiments, the means for transmitting information includes means for acquiring an updated first timing from a target cell based on a determination that the timing difference exceeds a threshold; means for updating the timing difference based on the updated first timing and the second timing; means for performing measurement of a channel state information reference signal based on a determination that the updated timing difference falls below a threshold within a time period; and means for transmitting a result of the measurement to a second device. In some example embodiments, the first device further includes means for transmitting an indication that the timing difference exceeds the threshold to the second device based on a determination that the updated timing difference exceeds the threshold within the time period. In some example embodiments, the first device further includes means for receiving a configuration indication from the second device to disable measurement of a channel state information reference signal.

[0114] In some example embodiments, the means for transmitting information includes means for performing measurement of a channel state information reference signal; and means for transmitting to the second device a result of the measurement and a timing indication of whether the timing difference exceeds a threshold. In some example embodiments, the timing indication may indicate that the timing difference exceeds the threshold. The first device also includes means for receiving a configuration indication from the second device to disable measurement of the channel state information reference signal.

[0115] In some example embodiments, the second device includes a component for configuring the first device to measure a channel state information reference signal from a target cell; and a component for receiving information about the measurement of the channel state information reference signal from the first device based on a timing difference between a first timing of the channel state information reference signal and a second timing used by the first device to measure the channel state information reference signal.

[0116] In some example embodiments, means for receiving information comprises means for receiving a result of the measurement from the first device.

[0117] In some example embodiments, the means for receiving information comprises means for receiving an indication from the first apparatus that the timing difference exceeds a threshold. In some example embodiments, the second apparatus further comprises means for transmitting a configuration indication to the first apparatus to disable measurement of a channel state information reference signal.

[0118] In some example embodiments, the means for receiving information includes means for receiving from the first apparatus a result of the measurement and a timing indication of whether the timing difference exceeds a threshold. In some example embodiments, the second apparatus further includes means for transmitting to the first apparatus a configuration indication to disable measurement of a channel state information reference signal based on a determination that the timing indication indicates that the timing difference exceeds the threshold.

[0119] Fig. 9is a simplified block diagram of a device 900 suitable for implementing embodiments of the present disclosure. The device 900 may be provided to implement a communication device, such as Figure 1 The first device 110, the second device 120 and the third device 130 are shown. As shown, the device 900 includes one or more processors 910, one or more memories 920 coupled to the processors 910, and one or more communication modules 940 (such as transmitters and / or receivers) coupled to the processors 910.

[0120] The communication module 940 is used for two-way communication. The communication module 940 has at least one antenna to facilitate communication. The communication interface may represent any interface necessary to communicate with other network elements.

[0121] Processor 910 may be of any type suitable for the local technology network, and may include, as non-limiting examples, one or more of a general purpose computer, a special purpose computer, a microprocessor, a digital signal processor (DSP), and a processor based on a multi-core processor architecture. Device 1200 may have multiple processors, such as application specific integrated circuit chips that are time slaved to a clock synchronized with a main processor.

[0122] The memory 920 may include one or more non-volatile memories and one or more volatile memories. Examples of non-volatile memories include, but are not limited to, read-only memory (ROM) 924, electrically programmable read-only memory (EPROM), flash memory, hard disk, compact disk (CD), digital video disk (DVD), and other magnetic storage and / or optical storage. Examples of volatile memories include, but are not limited to, random access memory (RAM) 922 and other volatile memories that do not persist during power outages.

[0123] The computer program 930 includes computer executable instructions executed by the associated processor 910. The program 930 may be stored in the ROM 920. The processor 910 may perform any suitable actions and processes by loading the program 930 into the RAM 920.

[0124] The embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented by a program 930, so that the device 900 may execute the reference Figures 7 and 8 Any process of the present disclosure discussed. The embodiments of the present disclosure may also be implemented by hardware or a combination of software and hardware.

[0125] In some embodiments, the program 930 may be tangibly contained in a computer-readable medium, which may be included in the device 900 (such as in the memory 920) or in other storage devices accessible to the device 900. The device 900 may load the program 930 from the computer-readable medium to the RAM 922 for execution. The computer-readable medium may include any type of tangible non-volatile memory, such as ROM, EPROM, flash memory, hard disk, CD, DVD, etc. Fig.10 An example of a computer readable medium 1000 in the form of a CD or DVD is shown. The computer readable medium has a program 930 stored thereon.

[0126] Generally, various embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented using hardware or dedicated circuits, software, logic, or any combination thereof. Some aspects may be implemented using hardware, while other aspects may be implemented using firmware or software that may be executed by a controller, microprocessor, or other computing device. Although various aspects of the embodiments of the present disclosure are illustrated and described as block diagrams, flow charts, or using some other graphical representations, it should be understood that, as non-limiting examples, the blocks, devices, systems, techniques, or methods described herein may be implemented using hardware, software, firmware, dedicated circuits or logic, general-purpose hardware or controllers or other computing devices, or some combination thereof.

[0127] The present disclosure also provides at least one computer program product tangibly stored on a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium. The computer program product includes computer executable instructions, such as instructions included in a program module, which are executed in a device on a target physical or virtual processor to perform the above referenced Figure 7-Figure 8 Method 700 or 800 described. Typically, program modules include routines, programs, libraries, objects, classes, components, data structures, etc. that perform specific tasks or implement specific abstract data types. In various embodiments, the functions of program modules can be combined or split between program modules as needed. The machine executable instructions of program modules can be executed in local or distributed devices. In distributed devices, program modules can be located in both local and remote storage media.

[0128] The program code for executing the disclosed method can be written in any combination of one or more programming languages. These program codes can be provided to a processor or controller of a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer or other programmable data processing device so that the program code causes the function / operation specified in the flow chart and / or block diagram to be realized when executed by the processor or controller. The program code can be executed completely on the machine, partially on the machine, as an independent software package, partially on the machine and partially on a remote machine, or completely on a remote machine or server.

[0129] In the context of the present disclosure, computer program codes or related data may be carried by any suitable carrier to enable a device, apparatus or processor to perform various processes and operations as described above. Examples of carriers include signals, computer readable media, etc.

[0130] The computer readable medium can be a computer readable signal medium or a computer readable storage medium. The computer readable medium can include, but is not limited to, electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared or semiconductor systems, devices or equipment, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. A more specific example of a computer readable storage medium will include an electrical connection with one or more wires, a portable computer floppy disk, a hard disk, a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or flash memory), an optical fiber, a portable compact disk read-only memory (CD-ROM), an optical storage device, a magnetic storage device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing.

[0131] In addition, although the operations are described in a particular order, this should not be understood as requiring such operations to be performed in the particular order shown or in order or performing all the operations shown to obtain the desired result. In some cases, multitasking and parallel processing may be advantageous. Similarly, although several specific implementation details are included in the above discussion, these should not be interpreted as limitations on the scope of the present disclosure, but rather descriptions of features that may be specific to a particular embodiment. Certain features described in the context of a separate embodiment may also be implemented in combination in a single embodiment. On the contrary, the various features described in the context of a single embodiment may also be implemented in multiple embodiments individually or in any suitable sub-combination.

[0132] Although the present disclosure has been described in language specific to structural features and / or methodological acts, it should be understood that the present disclosure defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described above. Instead, the specific features and acts described above are disclosed as example forms of implementing the claims.

Claims

1. A first device, comprising: at least one processor; as well as at least one memory including computer program code; The at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the first device to at least: determining a first timing of a channel state information reference signal from a target cell, the first device being configured by the second device to measure the channel state information reference signal; determining a second timing used by the first device to measure the channel state information reference signal; determining a timing difference between the first timing and the second timing; as well as Information about the measurement of the channel state information reference signal is transmitted to the second device based on the timing difference.

2. The first device according to claim 1, wherein the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, together with the at least one processor, cause the first device to determine the first timing by: detecting a synchronization signal block of the target cell associated with the channel state information reference signal; and The first timing is determined based on the synchronization signal block.

3. The first device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, together with the at least one processor, cause the first device to determine the second timing by: The second timing is determined based on timing information of a serving cell provided by the second device.

4. The first device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, together with the at least one processor, cause the first device to determine the second timing by: determining a cell from a set of cells including the target cell, the first device being configured to measure a channel state information reference signal from the set of cells; and The second timing is determined based on the determined timing information of the cell.

5. The first device of claim 1 , wherein the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, together with the at least one processor, cause the first device to transmit the information by: performing said measuring of said channel state information reference signal in response to a determination that said timing difference is below a threshold; and The measurement result is transmitted to the second device.

6. The first device of claim 1, wherein the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, together with the at least one processor, cause the first device to transmit the information by: Based on a determination that the timing difference exceeds a threshold, an indication that the timing difference exceeds the threshold is transmitted to the second device.

7. The first device of claim 1, wherein the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, together with the at least one processor, cause the first device to transmit the information by: Acquire an updated first timing from the target cell based on a determination that the timing difference exceeds a threshold; updating the timing difference based on the updated first timing and the second timing; performing said measuring of said channel state information reference signal in response to a determination that said updated timing difference falls below said threshold within a time period; as well as The measurement result is transmitted to the second device.

8. The first device of claim 7, wherein the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, together with the at least one processor, further cause the first device to: Based on a determination that the updated timing difference exceeds the threshold for the time period, transmitting to the second device an indication that the timing difference exceeds the threshold.

9. The first device according to claim 6 or 8, wherein the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, together with the at least one processor, further cause the first device to: A configuration indication is received from the second device to disable the measurement of the channel state information reference signal.

10. The first device of claim 1, wherein the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, together with the at least one processor, cause the first device to transmit the information by: performing said measurement of said channel state information reference signal; and The measurement result and a timing indication of whether the timing difference exceeds a threshold are transmitted to the second device.

11. The first device of claim 10, wherein the timing indication indicates that the timing difference exceeds the threshold, and wherein the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, together with the at least one processor, further cause the first device to: A configuration indication is received from the second device to disable the measurement of the channel state information reference signal.

12. A second device, comprising: at least one processor; as well as at least one memory including computer program code; The at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the second device to at least: Configuring the first device to measure a channel state information reference signal from a target cell; as well as Information on measurement of the channel state information reference signal is received from the first device based on a timing difference between a first timing of the channel state information reference signal and a second timing used by the first device to measure the channel state information reference signal.

13. The second device of claim 12, wherein the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, together with the at least one processor, cause the second device to receive the information by: A result of the measurement is received from the first device.

14. The second device of claim 12, wherein the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, together with the at least one processor, cause the second device to receive the information by: An indication is received from the first device that the timing difference exceeds a threshold.

15. The second device of claim 14, wherein the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, together with the at least one processor, further cause the second device to: Transmitting a configuration indication to the first device to disable the measurement of the channel state information reference signal.

16. The second device of claim 12, wherein the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, together with the at least one processor, cause the second device to receive the information by: A result of the measurement and a timing indication of whether the timing difference exceeds a threshold are received from the first device.

17. The second device of claim 16, wherein the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, with the at least one processor, further cause the second device to: Based on a determination that the timing indication indicates that the timing difference exceeds the threshold, transmitting a configuration indication to the first device to disable the measurement of the channel state information reference signal.

18. A method comprising: determining, at a first device, a first timing of a channel state information reference signal from a target cell, the first device being configured by the second device to measure the channel state information reference signal; determining a second timing used by the first device to measure the channel state information reference signal; determining a timing difference between the first timing and the second timing; as well as Information about the measurement of the channel state information reference signal is transmitted to the second device based on the timing difference.

19. A method comprising: configuring, at the second device, the first device to measure a channel state information reference signal from a target cell; as well as Information on measurement of the channel state information reference signal is received from the first device based on a timing difference between a first timing of the channel state information reference signal and a second timing used by the first device to measure the channel state information reference signal.

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