Transmission of reference signal configurations in broadcast messages for idle and inactive user equipments

Abstract

Methods, systems, and devices for wireless communication are described. The method may include receiving, from a base station, a broadcast transmission including a reference signal configuration for communication between the base station and the UE while the UE is operating in a first mode, the reference signal configuration indicating one or more reference signal parameters, and the first mode being an idle mode or an inactive mode; receiving one or more reference signals from the base station according to a reference signal configuration when operating in the first mode; and determining one or more channel measurements based on the one or more reference signals received from the base station.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the Chinese patent application with the application date of October 21, 2020, application number 202080106237.1, and invention name “Transmission of reference signal configuration in broadcast messages for idle and inactive user equipment”. Technical Field

[0002] The following relates to wireless communications, including transmission of reference signal configurations in broadcast messages for idle and inactive user equipment. Background Art

[0003] Wireless communication systems are widely deployed to provide various types of communication content such as voice, video, packet data, information transfer, broadcast, etc. These systems may be able to support communication with multiple users by sharing available system resources (e.g., time, frequency, and power). Examples of such multiple access systems include fourth generation (4G) systems (such as long term evolution (LTE) systems, advanced LTE (LTE-A) systems, or LTE-A Pro systems), and fifth generation (5G) systems, which may be referred to as new radio (NR) systems. These systems may employ techniques such as code division multiple access (CDMA), time division multiple access (TDMA), frequency division multiple access (FDMA), orthogonal frequency division multiple access (OFDMA), or discrete Fourier transform spread spectrum orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (DFT-S-OFDM). A wireless multiple access communication system may include one or more base stations or one or more network access nodes, each of which simultaneously supports communication for multiple communication devices (which may be referred to as user equipment (UE) in other aspects).

[0004] Some wireless systems may support transmission of UE-specific transmissions to user equipment (UE). However, improvements in transmission of UE-specific transmissions to UE may be desirable. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The described technology relates to improved methods, systems, devices, and apparatuses for supporting the transmission of reference signal configurations in broadcast messages for idle and inactive user equipment. Generally, the described technology provides a user equipment (UE) that, when the UE is operating in idle mode or inactive mode, receives a broadcast transmission from a base station that includes a reference signal configuration for communication between the base station and the UE. In some cases, the reference signal configuration may indicate one or more reference signal parameters. When operating in idle mode or inactive mode, the UE may receive one or more reference signals from the base station based on the reference signal configuration. In some cases, the UE may determine one or more channel measurements based at least in part on the one or more reference signals received from the base station.

[0006] A method of wireless communication at a UE is described. The method may include: when the UE is operating in a first mode, receiving, from a base station, a broadcast transmission including a reference signal configuration for communication between the base station and the UE, the reference signal configuration indicating one or more reference signal parameters, and the first mode being an idle mode or an inactive mode; when operating in the first mode, receiving one or more reference signals from the base station according to the reference signal configuration; and determining one or more channel measurements based on the one or more reference signals received from the base station.

[0007] An apparatus for wireless communication at a UE is described. The apparatus may include a processor, a memory coupled to the processor, and instructions stored in the memory. The instructions may be executable by the processor to cause the apparatus to: when the UE is operating in a first mode, receive a broadcast transmission from a base station including a reference signal configuration for communication between the base station and the UE, the reference signal configuration indicating one or more reference signal parameters, and the first mode being an idle mode or an inactive mode; when operating in the first mode, receive one or more reference signals from the base station according to the reference signal configuration; and determine one or more channel measurements based on the one or more reference signals received from the base station.

[0008] Another apparatus for wireless communication at a UE is described. The apparatus may include means for: when the UE is operating in a first mode, receiving, from a base station, a broadcast transmission including a reference signal configuration for communication between the base station and the UE, the reference signal configuration indicating one or more reference signal parameters, and the first mode being an idle mode or an inactive mode; when operating in the first mode, receiving one or more reference signals from the base station according to the reference signal configuration; and determining one or more channel measurements based on the one or more reference signals received from the base station.

[0009] A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing code for wireless communication at a UE is described. The code may include instructions executable by a processor to: when the UE is operating in a first mode, receive from a base station a broadcast transmission including a reference signal configuration for communication between the base station and the UE, the reference signal configuration indicating one or more reference signal parameters, and the first mode being an idle mode or an inactive mode; when operating in the first mode, receive from the base station one or more reference signals according to the reference signal configuration; and determine one or more channel measurements based on the one or more reference signals received from the base station.

[0010] In some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein, receiving a broadcast transmission including a reference signal configuration may include operations, features, means, or instructions for receiving the reference signal configuration in one or more system information blocks.

[0011] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, means, or instructions for periodically receiving one or more system information blocks based on scheduling information indicated in a type 1 system information block received by a UE when the type of the one or more system information blocks does not include a type 1 system information block.

[0012] In some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein, when one or more reference signals may be configured for a serving cell, the one or more system information blocks include a type 1 system information block.

[0013] In some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein, when one or more reference signals may be configured for intra-frequency neighboring cells, the one or more system information blocks include a type 2 system information block or a type 3 system information block, or both.

[0014] In some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein, when one or more reference signals may be configured for inter-frequency neighboring cells, the one or more system information blocks include a type 4 system information block or a type 5 system information block, or both.

[0015] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, means, or instructions for receiving an update to a reference signal configuration in one or more system information blocks, wherein the update to the reference signal configuration may be indicated by one or more bits of paging downlink control information.

[0016] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, means, or instructions for determining that a reference signal configuration may be updated based on a system information modification bit of a short message paging downlink control information.

[0017] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, means, or instructions for determining that a reference signal configuration may be updated based on bits in a set of unused bits of a short message for paging downlink control information.

[0018] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, units, or instructions for receiving an indication of availability of a reference signal or an indication of an update to a reference signal configuration in a physical downlink control channel, where the availability or update may be indicated by one or more bits of paging downlink control information.

[0019] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, means, or instructions for determining that one or more bits of paging downlink control information indicate that a reference signal may be available for the UE or that there may be an update to the reference signal configuration.

[0020] In some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein, the set of unused bits of paging downlink control information, or the set of reserved bits of paging downlink control information, or both include one or more bits of paging downlink control information.

[0021] In some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein, the paging downlink control information may be associated with physical downlink shared channel scheduling information.

[0022] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, units, or instructions for determining that one or more bits of paging downlink control information include a first bit for indicating whether a reference signal may be available for the UE in a physical downlink control channel, or a second bit for indicating whether there may be an update to the reference signal configuration, or both.

[0023] In some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein, one or more bits of the paging downlink control information include one indication per reference signal resource of a reference signal configuration.

[0024] In some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein, one or more bits of the paging downlink control information include one indication per reference signal resource group of a reference signal configuration.

[0025] In some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein, one or more bits of the paging downlink control information include one indication per reference signal resource set of a reference signal configuration.

[0026] In some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein, one or more bits of the paging downlink control information include one indication of a group per reference signal resource set of a reference signal configuration.

[0027] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, units, or instructions for determining an identifier for each reference signal resource, each reference signal resource set, each reference signal resource group, or each group of reference signal resource sets from smallest identifier to largest identifier; and mapping the reference signal resources, reference signal resource sets, reference signal resource groups, or reference signal resource set groups to one or more bits in order from smallest identifier to largest identifier, wherein the reference signal resource, reference signal resource set, reference signal resource group, or reference signal resource set group with the smallest identifier may be mapped to the least significant bit of the one or more bits, and the reference signal resource, reference signal resource set, reference signal resource group, or reference signal resource set group with the largest identifier may be mapped to the most significant bit of the one or more bits.

[0028] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, means, or instructions for receiving an indication of the availability of a reference signal or an indication of an update to a reference signal configuration in a paging indicator of a physical downlink control channel.

[0029] In some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein, a physical downlink control channel carries information for at least one group of UEs associated with a paging occasion.

[0030] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, units, or instructions for identifying a dynamic indication field of a physical downlink control channel, wherein the dynamic indication field indicates that a group of UEs in at least one group of UEs can be paged in a next paging occasion, and the group of UEs includes the UE.

[0031] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, units, or instructions for identifying a content field of a physical downlink control channel, wherein a first bit of the content field indicates whether the UE can be paged in the next paging occasion and the remaining bits of the content field include an indication of the availability of a reference signal or an indication of an update to the reference signal configuration.

[0032] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, means, or instructions for receiving an indication of availability of a reference signal or an indication of an update to a reference signal configuration in one or more reference signal sequences.

[0033] In some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein, a reference signal configuration may be encoded when at least one reference signal sequence of one or more reference signal sequences may be generated.

[0034] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, means, or instructions for determining availability of one or more reference signals based on one or more reference signal sequences.

[0035] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, units, or instructions for: receiving a first reference signal sequence from one or more reference signal sequences to indicate that the one or more reference signals remain available, receiving a second reference signal sequence from one or more reference signal sequences that is different from the first reference signal sequence to indicate that the one or more reference signals do not remain available, and not receiving either the first reference signal sequence or the second reference signal sequence to indicate that the UE may not be paged in the next paging occasion.

[0036] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, means, or instructions for receiving a reference signal configuration or an update to a reference signal configuration in a physical downlink shared channel.

[0037] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, units, or instructions for determining that one or more bits in a set of unused bits of a short message for paging downlink control information indicate that a physical downlink shared channel includes a reference signal configuration or an update to a reference signal configuration.

[0038] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, means, or instructions for determining that one or more bits in a set of reserved bits for paging downlink control information indicate that a physical downlink shared channel includes a reference signal configuration or an update to a reference signal configuration.

[0039] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, means, or instructions for receiving a reference signal configuration or an update to a reference signal configuration in a nonCriticalExtension of a paging message, wherein a pagingRecordList may not be included in the paging message.

[0040] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, units, or instructions for performing the following: receiving a second reference signal configuration in a physical downlink shared channel after receiving the reference signal configuration, and overwriting the reference signal configuration in the memory with the second reference signal configuration based on receiving the second reference signal configuration in the physical downlink shared channel.

[0041] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, units, or instructions for receiving an update to a reference signal configuration in a physical downlink shared channel, and updating at least a portion of the reference signal configuration in a memory based on receiving the update to the reference signal configuration in the physical downlink shared channel.

[0042] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, means, or instructions for identifying a channel state information resource configuration in a reference signal configuration.

[0043] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, units, or instructions for identifying a channel state information resource for a resource identifier linked to a resource set provided in a reference signal configuration, wherein the channel state information resource may be quasi-co-located to one or more synchronization signal blocks.

[0044] A method of wireless communication at a base station is described. The method may include generating a reference signal configuration for communication between the base station and a UE operating in a first mode, the reference signal configuration indicating one or more reference signal parameters, and the first mode being an idle mode or an inactive mode; sending a broadcast transmission including the reference signal configuration to the UE; sending one or more reference signals to the UE according to the reference signal configuration when the UE is operating in the first mode; and receiving one or more channel measurements from the UE based on the one or more reference signals sent to the UE.

[0045] An apparatus for wireless communication at a base station is described. The apparatus may include a processor, a memory coupled to the processor, and instructions stored in the memory. The instructions may be executable by the processor to cause the apparatus to: generate a reference signal configuration for communication between the base station and a UE operating in a first mode, the reference signal configuration indicating one or more reference signal parameters, and the first mode being an idle mode or an inactive mode; send a broadcast transmission including the reference signal configuration to the UE; when the UE is operating in the first mode, send one or more reference signals to the UE according to the reference signal configuration; and receive one or more channel measurements from the UE based on the one or more reference signals sent to the UE.

[0046] Another apparatus for wireless communication at a base station is described. The apparatus may include means for generating a reference signal configuration for communication between the base station and a UE operating in a first mode, the reference signal configuration indicating one or more reference signal parameters, and the first mode being an idle mode or an inactive mode; sending a broadcast transmission including the reference signal configuration to the UE; sending one or more reference signals to the UE according to the reference signal configuration when the UE is operating in the first mode; and receiving one or more channel measurements from the UE based on the one or more reference signals sent to the UE.

[0047] A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing code for wireless communication at a base station is described. The code may include instructions executable by a processor to: generate a reference signal configuration for communication between the base station and a UE operating in a first mode, the reference signal configuration indicating one or more reference signal parameters, and the first mode being an idle mode or an inactive mode; send a broadcast transmission including the reference signal configuration to the UE; when the UE is operating in the first mode, send one or more reference signals to the UE according to the reference signal configuration; and receive one or more channel measurements from the UE based on the one or more reference signals sent to the UE.

[0048] In some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein, sending a broadcast transmission including a reference signal configuration may include operations, features, means, or instructions for sending the reference signal configuration in one or more system information blocks.

[0049] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, means, or instructions for periodically sending one or more system information blocks based on scheduling information indicated in a type 1 system information block sent by a base station to a UE when the type of the one or more system information blocks does not include a type 1 system information block.

[0050] In some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein, when one or more reference signals may be configured for a serving cell, the one or more system information blocks include a type 1 system information block.

[0051] In some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein, when one or more reference signals may be configured for intra-frequency neighboring cells, the one or more system information blocks include a type 2 system information block or a type 3 system information block, or both.

[0052] In some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein, when one or more reference signals may be configured for inter-frequency neighboring cells, the one or more system information blocks include a type 4 system information block or a type 5 system information block, or both.

[0053] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, means, or instructions for sending an update to a reference signal configuration in one or more system information blocks, where the update to the reference signal configuration may be indicated by one or more bits of paging downlink control information.

[0054] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, means, or instructions for indicating that a reference signal configuration may be updated based on a system information modification bit of a short message paging downlink control information.

[0055] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, means, or instructions for indicating that a reference signal configuration may be updated based on bits in a set of unused bits of a short message for paging downlink control information.

[0056] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, units, or instructions for sending an indication of availability of a reference signal or an indication of an update to a reference signal configuration in a physical downlink control channel, where the availability or update may be indicated by one or more bits of paging downlink control information.

[0057] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, means, or instructions for indicating in one or more bits of paging downlink control information that a reference signal may be available for the UE or that there may be an update to the reference signal configuration.

[0058] In some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein, the set of unused bits of paging downlink control information, or the set of reserved bits of paging downlink control information, or both include one or more bits of paging downlink control information.

[0059] In some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein, the paging downlink control information may be associated with physical downlink shared channel scheduling information.

[0060] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, units, or instructions for configuring a first bit of one or more bits of paging downlink control information to indicate whether a reference signal is available for the UE in a physical downlink control channel, or configuring a second bit of one or more bits of paging downlink control information to indicate whether there may be an update to the reference signal configuration, or configuring both.

[0061] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, means, or instructions for configuring one or more bits of paging downlink control information to include one indication per reference signal resource of a reference signal configuration.

[0062] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, means, or instructions for configuring one or more bits of paging downlink control information to include one indication per reference signal resource group of a reference signal configuration.

[0063] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, means, or instructions for configuring one or more bits of paging downlink control information to include one indication per reference signal resource set of a reference signal configuration.

[0064] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, means, or instructions for configuring one or more bits of paging downlink control information to include an indication of one group per reference signal resource set of a reference signal configuration.

[0065] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, units, or instructions for determining an identifier for each reference signal resource, each reference signal resource set, each reference signal resource group, or each group of reference signal resource sets from smallest identifier to largest identifier; and mapping the reference signal resources, reference signal resource sets, reference signal resource groups, or reference signal resource set groups to one or more bits in order from smallest identifier to largest identifier, wherein the reference signal resource, reference signal resource set, reference signal resource group, or reference signal resource set group with the smallest identifier may be mapped to the least significant bit of the one or more bits, and the reference signal resource, reference signal resource set, reference signal resource group, or reference signal resource set group with the largest identifier may be mapped to the most significant bit of the one or more bits.

[0066] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, means, or instructions for sending an indication of the availability of a reference signal or an indication of an update to a reference signal configuration in a paging indicator of a physical downlink control channel.

[0067] In some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein, a physical downlink control channel carries information for at least one group of UEs associated with a paging occasion.

[0068] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, units, or instructions for identifying a dynamic indication field of a physical downlink control channel, wherein the dynamic indication field indicates that a group of UEs in at least one group of UEs can be paged in a next paging occasion, and the group of UEs includes the UE.

[0069] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, units, or instructions for configuring a first bit of a content field of a physical downlink control channel to indicate whether the UE can be paged in the next paging occasion, and remaining bits of the content field to include an indication of the availability of a reference signal or an indication of an update to the reference signal configuration.

[0070] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, means, or instructions for sending an indication of the availability of a reference signal or an indication of an update to a reference signal configuration in one or more reference signal sequences.

[0071] Some examples of the methods, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, means, or instructions for encoding a reference signal configuration when at least one of the one or more reference signal sequences may be generated.

[0072] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, means, or instructions for indicating availability of one or more reference signals based on one or more reference signal sequences.

[0073] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, units, or instructions for sending a first reference signal sequence among one or more reference signal sequences to indicate that the one or more reference signals remain available, sending a second reference signal sequence among the one or more reference signal sequences and different from the first reference signal sequence to indicate that the one or more reference signals do not remain available, and not sending either the first reference signal sequence or the second reference signal sequence to indicate that the UE may not be paged in the next paging occasion.

[0074] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, means, or instructions for sending a reference signal configuration or an update to a reference signal configuration in a physical downlink shared channel.

[0075] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, units, or instructions for configuring one or more bits from a set of unused bits of a short message for paging downlink control information to indicate that a physical downlink shared channel includes a reference signal configuration or an update to a reference signal configuration.

[0076] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, means, or instructions for configuring one or more bits in a set of reserved bits of paging downlink control information to indicate that a physical downlink shared channel includes a reference signal configuration or an update to a reference signal configuration.

[0077] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, means, or instructions for sending a reference signal configuration or an update to a reference signal configuration in a nonCriticalExtension of a paging message, wherein a pagingRecordList may not be included in the paging message.

[0078] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, units, or instructions for sending a second reference signal configuration in a physical downlink shared channel after sending the reference signal configuration, wherein the UE may be configured to overwrite the reference signal configuration in the memory with the second reference signal configuration based on the UE receiving the second reference signal configuration in the physical downlink shared channel.

[0079] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, units, or instructions for sending an update to a reference signal configuration in a physical downlink shared channel, wherein the UE may be configured to update at least a portion of the reference signal configuration in the memory based on the UE receiving the update to the reference signal configuration in the physical downlink shared channel.

[0080] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, means, or instructions for configuring a reference signal configuration to include a channel state information resource configuration.

[0081] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, units, or instructions for configuring a reference signal configuration to include a channel state information resource for a resource identifier linked to a resource set, wherein the channel state information resource may be quasi-co-located to one or more synchronization signal blocks. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0082] Figure 1

[0014] An example of a system for wireless communication that supports transmission of reference signal configurations in broadcast messages for idle and inactive user equipments according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown.

[0083] Figure 2 An example of a wireless communication subsystem supporting transmission of reference signal configurations in broadcast messages for idle and inactive user equipments according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown.

[0084] Figure 3 An example of an environment supporting transmission of reference signal configurations in broadcast messages for idle and inactive user equipments according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown.

[0085] Figure 4 An example of a process flow supporting transmission of reference signal configurations in a broadcast message for idle and inactive user equipments according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown.

[0086] Figure 5 and 6A block diagram of an apparatus supporting transmission of reference signal configurations in broadcast messages for idle and inactive user equipments is shown in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0087] Figure 7 A block diagram of a communications manager supporting transmission of reference signal configurations in broadcast messages for idle and inactive user equipments is shown in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0088] Figure 8 A schematic diagram of a system including devices supporting transmission of reference signal configurations in broadcast messages for idle and inactive user equipments is shown in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0089] Figure 9 and 10 A block diagram of an apparatus supporting transmission of reference signal configurations in broadcast messages for idle and inactive user equipments is shown in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0090] Figure 11 A block diagram of a communications manager supporting transmission of reference signal configurations in broadcast messages for idle and inactive user equipments is shown in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0091] Figure 12 A schematic diagram of a system including devices supporting transmission of reference signal configurations in broadcast messages for idle and inactive user equipments is shown in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0092] Figures 13 to 20 A flow chart illustrating a method of supporting transmission of reference signal configurations in broadcast messages for idle and inactive user equipments according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0093] Some wireless communication systems, such as 4G, 5G, and New Radio (NR) systems, may support transmission of user equipment (UE)-specific transmissions to one or more UEs. The present technology includes transmission of reference signal configurations in broadcast messages for UEs operating in idle and inactive modes. In some cases, when the UE is in connected mode or active mode, a base station may send UE-specific transmissions to the UE, and the UE may respond with channel measurements, etc., without any problems. However, when the UE is in idle mode or inactive mode, the UE may not be configured or may not be able to receive the UE-specific transmissions that the UE is configured to receive in connected mode or active mode.

[0094] The present technology includes supporting UE-specific transmissions to UEs when the UE is in idle mode or inactive mode. When the UE is in idle mode or inactive mode, the UE may be configured to receive a broadcast message or a multicast message. The present technology may include providing UE-specific transmissions in a broadcast message or a multicast message so that the UE can receive and process the UE-specific transmissions when the UE is in idle mode or inactive mode. In some cases, the UE-specific transmission may include a resource signal configuration. In some cases, the base station may send the resource signal configuration or an indication of the resource signal configuration in a system information block, a physical downlink control channel, a physical downlink shared channel, or any combination thereof. In some cases, the base station may broadcast or multicast a complete resource signal configuration, a partial resource signal configuration, an indicator of the resource signal configuration, or any combination thereof. The indicator of the resource signal configuration may indicate whether the resource signal configuration is available or not available. In some cases, the indicator of the resource signal configuration may indicate whether the resource signal configuration is updated or not updated, or whether an update to the resource signal configuration is available or not available.

[0095] Aspects of the subject matter described herein can be implemented to achieve one or more advantages. The described techniques can support improvements in system efficiency by enabling and configuring a UE to perform channel measurements while in an inactive or idle mode. Additionally, the described techniques can result in an improved user experience, avoidance of multiple retransmissions and failed transmissions, reduced system latency, and improved channel measurement reliability, regardless of whether the UE is operating in a connected or active mode or in an inactive or idle mode.

[0096] Aspects of the present disclosure are initially described in the context of wireless communication systems. Aspects of the present disclosure are further illustrated and described with reference to wireless communication subsystems, environments, and process flows related to the transmission of reference signal configurations in broadcast messages for idle and inactive user equipment. Aspects of the present disclosure are further illustrated and described with reference to apparatus diagrams, system diagrams, and flow charts related to the transmission of reference signal configurations in broadcast messages for idle and inactive user equipment.

[0097] Figure 1An example of a wireless communication system 100 that supports transmission of reference signal configurations in broadcast messages for idle and inactive user equipment according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown. The wireless communication system 100 may include one or more base stations 105, one or more UEs 115, and a core network 130. In some examples, the wireless communication system 100 may be a long term evolution (LTE) network, an advanced LTE (LTE-A) network, an LTE-A Pro network, or a new radio (NR) network. In some examples, the wireless communication system 100 may support enhanced broadband communication, ultra-reliable (e.g., mission-critical) communication, low-latency communication, communication with low-cost and low-complexity devices, or any combination thereof.

[0098] Base stations 105 may be distributed throughout a geographic area to form wireless communication system 100 and may be devices of different forms or with different capabilities. Base stations 105 and UEs 115 may communicate wirelessly via one or more communication links 125. Each base station 105 may provide a coverage area 110 over which a UE 115 and base station 105 may establish one or more communication links 125. Coverage area 110 may be an example of a coverage area over which base stations 105 and UEs 115 may support transmission of signals according to one or more radio access technologies.

[0099] The UEs 115 may be distributed throughout the coverage area 110 of the wireless communication system 100, and each UE 115 may be stationary, mobile, or both stationary and mobile at different times. The UEs 115 may be devices of different forms or with different capabilities. Some examples of UEs 115 are shown in FIG. Figure 1 In. Figure 1 As shown, the UE 115 described herein may be capable of communicating with various types of devices, such as other UEs 115, base stations 105, or network devices (e.g., core network nodes, relay devices, integrated access and backhaul (IAB) nodes), or other network devices.

[0100] Base stations 105 can communicate with core network 130, or with each other, or both. For example, base stations 105 can interface with core network 130 via one or more backhaul links 120 (e.g., via S1, N2, N3, or other interfaces). Base stations 105 can communicate with each other on backhaul links 120 (e.g., via X2, Xn, or other interfaces) directly (e.g., directly between base stations 105), indirectly (e.g., via core network 130), or both. In some examples, backhaul links 120 can be or include one or more wireless links.

[0101] One or more of the base stations 105 described herein may include or may be referred to by one of ordinary skill in the art as a base station transceiver, a radio base station, an access point, a radio transceiver, a node B, an evolved node B (eNB), a next generation node B, or a giganode B (any of which may be referred to as a gNB), a home node B, a home evolved node B, or other suitable terminology.

[0102] UE 115 may include or may be referred to as a mobile device, a wireless device, a remote device, a handheld device, or a user device, or some other suitable terminology, where a "device" may also be referred to as a unit, a station, a terminal, or a client, etc. UE 115 may also include or may be referred to as a personal electronic device, such as a cellular phone, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a tablet computer, a laptop computer, or a personal computer. In some examples, UE 115 may include or may be referred to as a wireless local loop (WLL) station, an Internet of Things (IoT) device, an Internet of Everything (IoE) device, or a machine type communication (MTC) device, etc., which may be implemented in various objects (such as appliances, vehicles, meters, etc.).

[0103] The UE 115 described herein may be capable of communicating with various types of devices, such as other UEs 115, which may sometimes act as relays, as well as base stations 105 and network equipment including macro eNBs or gNBs, small cell eNBs or gNBs, relay base stations, etc. Figure 1 As shown in .

[0104] The UE 115 and the base station 105 can communicate wirelessly with each other via one or more communication links 125 on one or more carriers. The term "carrier" can refer to a collection of radio frequency spectrum resources having a defined physical layer structure for supporting the communication link 125. For example, a carrier for the communication link 125 can include a portion of a radio frequency spectrum band (e.g., a bandwidth portion (BWP)) that operates according to one or more physical layer channels for a given radio access technology (e.g., LTE, LTE-A, LTE-APro, NR). Each physical layer channel can carry acquisition signaling (e.g., synchronization signals, system information), control signaling to coordinate carrier operation, user data, or other signaling. The wireless communication system 100 can use carrier aggregation or multi-carrier operation to support communication with the UE 115. The UE 115 can be configured with multiple downlink component carriers and one or more uplink component carriers according to the carrier aggregation configuration. Carrier aggregation can be used with both frequency division duplex (FDD) and time division duplex (TDD) component carriers.

[0105] The signal waveform transmitted on the carrier may be composed of multiple subcarriers (e.g., using a multicarrier modulation (MCM) technique such as orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) or discrete Fourier transform spread OFDM (DFT-S-OFDM)). In a system employing MCM techniques, a resource element may be composed of one symbol period (e.g., the duration of one modulation symbol) and one subcarrier, where the symbol period and subcarrier spacing are inversely related. The number of bits carried by each resource element may depend on the modulation scheme (e.g., the order of the modulation scheme, the coding rate of the modulation scheme, or both). Therefore, the more resource elements received by UE 115 and the higher the order of the modulation scheme, the higher the data rate of UE 115 may be. Wireless communication resources may refer to a combination of radio frequency spectrum resources, time resources, and spatial resources (e.g., spatial layers or beams), and the use of multiple spatial layers may also increase the data rate or data integrity used for communications with UE 115.

[0106] The time intervals for the base station 105 or the UE 115 may be expressed as multiples of a basic time unit, which may be referred to as T s =1 / (Δf max ·N f ) seconds sampling period, where Δf max It can represent the maximum supported subcarrier spacing, and N f The maximum supported discrete Fourier transform (DFT) size may be indicated. Time intervals for communication resources may be organized according to radio frames, each having a specified duration (e.g., 10 milliseconds (ms)). Each radio frame may be identified by a system frame number (SFN) (e.g., ranging from 0 to 1023).

[0107] Each frame may include a plurality of consecutively numbered subframes or time slots, and each subframe or time slot may have the same duration. In some examples, the frame may be divided (e.g., in the time domain) into subframes, and each subframe may also be divided into a plurality of time slots. Alternatively, each frame may include a variable number of time slots, and the number of time slots may depend on the subcarrier spacing. Each time slot may include a plurality of symbol periods (e.g., depending on the length of a cyclic prefix prepended to each symbol period). In some wireless communication systems 100, the time slot may also be divided into a plurality of mini-slots containing one or more symbols. In addition to the cyclic prefix, each symbol period may contain one or more (e.g., N f The duration of a symbol period may depend on the subcarrier spacing or the operating frequency band.

[0108] A subframe, slot, mini-slot, or symbol may be the smallest scheduling unit (e.g., in the time domain) of the wireless communication system 100 and may be referred to as a transmission time interval (TTI). In some examples, the TTI duration (e.g., the number of symbol periods in a TTI) may be variable. Additionally or alternatively, the smallest scheduling unit of the wireless communication system 100 may be dynamically selected (e.g., in bursts of shortened TTIs (sTTIs)).

[0109] Physical channels may be multiplexed on a carrier according to various techniques. Physical control channels and physical data channels may be multiplexed on a downlink carrier, for example, using one or more of a time division multiplexing (TDM) technique, a frequency division multiplexing (FDM) technique, or a hybrid TDM-FDM technique. A control region (e.g., a control resource set (CORESET)) for a physical control channel may be defined by multiple symbol periods and may extend across the system bandwidth of a carrier or a subset of the system bandwidth. One or more control regions (e.g., CORESETs) may be configured for a set of UEs 115. For example, one or more of UEs 115 may monitor or search a control region for control information according to one or more search space sets, and each search space set may include one or more control channel candidates in one or more aggregation levels arranged in a cascaded manner. The aggregation level for a control channel candidate may refer to the number of control channel resources (e.g., control channel elements (CCEs)) associated with the coded information for a control information format having a given payload size. The search space sets may include a common search space set configured for transmitting control information to multiple UEs 115 and a UE-specific search space set for transmitting control information to a specific UE 115 .

[0110] In some examples, base stations 105 can be mobile and, therefore, provide communication coverage for mobile geographic coverage areas 110. In some examples, different geographic coverage areas 110 associated with different technologies can overlap, but the different geographic coverage areas 110 can be supported by the same base station 105. In other examples, overlapping geographic coverage areas 110 associated with different technologies can be supported by different base stations 105. The wireless communication system 100 can include, for example, a heterogeneous network in which different types of base stations 105 provide coverage for various geographic coverage areas 110 using the same or different radio access technologies.

[0111] Some UEs 115 may be configured to employ a mode of operation that reduces power consumption, such as half-duplex communication (e.g., a mode that supports one-way communication via transmission or reception rather than simultaneous transmission and reception). In some examples, half-duplex communication may be performed at a reduced peak rate. Other power conservation techniques for UEs 115 include entering a power-saving deep sleep mode when not engaged in active communications, operating over a limited bandwidth (e.g., according to narrowband communication), or a combination of these techniques. For example, some UEs 115 may be configured to operate using a narrowband protocol type that is associated with a defined portion or range (e.g., a set of subcarriers or resource blocks (RBs)) within a carrier, within a guard band of a carrier, or outside of a carrier.

[0112] The wireless communication system 100 can be configured to support ultra-reliable communication or low-latency communication or various combinations thereof. For example, the wireless communication system 100 can be configured to support ultra-reliable low-latency communication (URLLC) or mission-critical communication. UE 115 can be designed to support ultra-reliable, low-latency or critical functions (e.g., mission-critical functions). Ultra-reliable communication can include private communication or group communication and can be supported by one or more mission-critical services such as mission-critical push-to-talk (MCPTT), mission-critical video (MCVideo), or mission-critical data (MCData). Support for mission-critical functions can include prioritization of services, and mission-critical services can be used for public safety or general commercial applications. The terms ultra-reliable, low-latency, mission-critical, and ultra-reliable low-latency can be used interchangeably in this article.

[0113] In some examples, UE 115 may also be able to communicate directly with other UEs 115 over a device-to-device (D2D) communication link 135 (e.g., using a peer-to-peer (P2P) or D2D protocol). One or more UEs 115 utilizing D2D communication may be within the geographic coverage area 110 of base station 105. Other UEs 115 in such a group may be outside the geographic coverage area 110 of base station 105 or otherwise unable to receive transmissions from base station 105. In some examples, a group of UEs 115 communicating via D2D communication may utilize a one-to-many (1:M) system, in which each UE 115 transmits to each other UE 115 in the group. In some examples, base station 105 facilitates the scheduling of resources for D2D communication. In other cases, D2D communication is performed between UEs 115 without involving base station 105.

[0114] The core network 130 may provide user authentication, access authorization, tracking, Internet Protocol (IP) connectivity, and other access, routing, or mobility functions. The core network 130 may be an evolved packet core (EPC) or a 5G core (5GC), which may include at least one control plane entity (e.g., a mobility management entity (MME), an access and mobility management function (AMF)) that manages access and mobility, and at least one user plane entity (e.g., a serving gateway (S-GW), a packet data network (PDN) gateway (P-GW), or a user plane function (UPF)) that routes packets or interconnections to external networks. The control plane entities may manage non-access stratum (NAS) functions, such as mobility, authentication, and bearer management for UEs 115 served by base stations 105 associated with the core network 130. User IP packets may be transmitted through the user plane entities, which may provide IP address allocation and other functions. The user plane entities may be connected to IP services 150 for one or more network operators. IP services 150 may include access to the Internet, an intranet, an IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS), or packet-switched streaming services.

[0115] Some of the network devices, such as the base station 105, may include subcomponents such as an access network entity 140, which may be an example of an access node controller (ANC). Each access network entity 140 may communicate with the UE 115 through one or more other access network transport entities 145, which may be referred to as radio heads, smart radio heads, or transmit / receive points (TRPs). Each access network transport entity 145 may include one or more antenna panels. In some configurations, the various functions of each access network entity 140 or base station 105 may be distributed across various network devices (e.g., radio heads and ANCs) or consolidated into a single network device (e.g., base station 105).

[0116] The wireless communication system 100 can operate using one or more frequency bands, typically in the range of 300 megahertz (MHz) to 300 gigahertz (GHz). The region from 300 MHz to 3 GHz is often referred to as the very high frequency (UHF) region or decimeter band because the wavelengths range from approximately one decimeter to one meter in length. UHF waves can be blocked or redirected by buildings and environmental features, but, for macrocells, the waves can penetrate structures sufficiently to provide service to UEs 115 located indoors. Transmission using UHF waves can be associated with smaller antennas and shorter ranges (e.g., less than 100 kilometers) compared to transmission using the lower frequencies and longer wavelengths of the high frequency (HF) or very high frequency (VHF) portions of the spectrum below 300 MHz.

[0117] The wireless communication system 100 can utilize both licensed and unlicensed radio frequency spectrum bands. For example, the wireless communication system 100 can employ license assisted access (LAA), LTE unlicensed (LTE-U) radio access technology, or NR technology in an unlicensed frequency band (such as the 5 GHz industrial, scientific, and medical (ISM) band). When operating in an unlicensed radio frequency spectrum band, devices such as the base station 105 and the UE 115 can employ carrier sensing for conflict detection and avoidance. In some examples, operations in the unlicensed frequency band can be based on a carrier aggregation configuration (e.g., LAA) in combination with component carriers operating in a licensed frequency band. Operations in the unlicensed spectrum can include downlink transmissions, uplink transmissions, P2P transmissions, or D2D transmissions, among others.

[0118] The base station 105 or UE 115 can be equipped with multiple antennas that can be used to employ techniques such as transmit diversity, receive diversity, multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) communications, or beamforming. The antennas of the base station 105 or UE 115 can be located within one or more antenna arrays or antenna panels that can support MIMO operations or transmit or receive beamforming. For example, one or more base station antennas or antenna arrays can be co-located at an antenna assembly (such as an antenna tower). In some examples, the antennas or antenna arrays associated with the base station 105 can be located in different geographical locations. The base station 105 can have an antenna array with multiple rows and columns of antenna ports that the base station 105 can use to support beamforming for communications with the UE 115. Similarly, the UE 115 can have one or more antenna arrays that can support various MIMO or beamforming operations. Additionally or alternatively, the antenna panel can support radio frequency beamforming for signals transmitted via the antenna ports.

[0119] The base station 105 or UE 115 can use MIMO communication to take advantage of multipath signal propagation and increase spectral efficiency by sending or receiving multiple signals via different spatial layers. Such a technique may be referred to as spatial multiplexing. For example, multiple signals may be sent by a transmitting device via different antennas or different combinations of antennas. Similarly, multiple signals may be received by a receiving device via different antennas or different combinations of antennas. Each of the multiple signals may be referred to as a separate spatial stream and may carry bits associated with the same data stream (e.g., the same codeword) or different data streams (e.g., different codewords). Different spatial layers may be associated with different antenna ports for channel measurement and reporting. MIMO technologies include single-user MIMO (SU-MIMO) (where multiple spatial layers are sent to the same receiving device) and multi-user MIMO (MU-MIMO) (where multiple spatial layers are sent to multiple devices).

[0120] Beamforming (which may also be referred to as spatial filtering, directional transmission, or directional reception) is a signal processing technique that can be used at a transmitting or receiving device (e.g., base station 105, UE 115) to shape or steer an antenna beam (e.g., a transmit beam, a receive beam) along a spatial path between the transmitting and receiving devices. Beamforming can be achieved by combining signals transmitted via antenna elements of an antenna array so that some signals propagating at a particular orientation relative to the antenna array experience constructive interference, while other signals experience destructive interference. Adjustments to signals transmitted via antenna elements can include the transmitting or receiving device applying an amplitude offset, a phase offset, or both to signals carried via antenna elements associated with the device. Adjustments associated with each of the antenna elements can be defined by a set of beamforming weights associated with a particular orientation (e.g., relative to the antenna array of the transmitting or receiving device, or relative to some other orientation).

[0121] The base station 105 or the UE 115 may use beam sweeping techniques as part of a beamforming operation. For example, the base station 105 may use multiple antennas or antenna arrays (e.g., antenna panels) to perform beamforming operations for directional communication with the UE 115. Some signals (e.g., synchronization signals, reference signals, beam selection signals, or other control signals) may be transmitted multiple times by the base station 105 in different directions. For example, the base station 105 may transmit signals according to different sets of beamforming weights associated with different transmission directions. Transmissions in different beam directions may be used to identify (e.g., by a transmitting device such as the base station 105, or a receiving device such as the UE 115) a beam direction for later transmission or reception by the base station 105.

[0122] Some signals, such as data signals associated with a particular receiving device, may be transmitted by base station 105 in a single beam direction, e.g., a direction associated with a receiving device, such as UE 115. In some examples, the beam direction associated with transmissions along the single beam direction may be determined based on signals transmitted in one or more beam directions. For example, UE 115 may receive one or more of the signals transmitted by base station 105 in different directions and may report to base station 105 an indication of the signal received by UE 115 having the highest signal quality or otherwise acceptable signal quality.

[0123] In some examples, transmissions by a device (e.g., by a base station 105 or a UE 115) may be performed using multiple beam directions, and the device may use a combination of digital precoding or radio frequency beamforming to generate a combined beam for transmission (e.g., from the base station 105 to the UE 115). The UE 115 may report feedback indicating precoding weights used for one or more beam directions, and the feedback may correspond to a configured number of beams across the system bandwidth or one or more subbands. The base station 105 may send reference signals (e.g., cell-specific reference signals (CRS), channel state information reference signals (CSI-RS)) that may be precoded or unprecoded. The UE 115 may provide feedback for beam selection, which may be a precoding matrix indicator (PMI) or codebook-based feedback (e.g., a multi-panel type codebook, a linear combination type codebook, a port selection type codebook). Although these techniques are described with reference to signals sent by base station 105 in one or more directions, UE 115 may employ similar techniques to send signals multiple times in different directions (e.g., to identify a beam direction for subsequent transmission or reception by UE 115) or to send signals in a single direction (e.g., to send data to a receiving device).

[0124] When receiving various signals (such as synchronization signals, reference signals, beam selection signals, or other control signals) from the base station 105, a receiving device (e.g., UE 115) can try multiple reception configurations (e.g., directional listening). For example, the receiving device can try multiple reception directions by receiving via different antenna subarrays, by processing the received signal according to different antenna subarrays, by receiving according to different receive beamforming weight sets applied to the signal received at multiple antenna elements of the antenna array (e.g., different directional listening weight sets), or by processing the received signal according to different receive beamforming weight sets applied to the signal received at multiple antenna elements of the antenna array, any of which can be referred to as "listening" according to different reception configurations or reception directions. In some examples, the receiving device can use a single reception configuration to receive along a single beam direction (e.g., when receiving a data signal). A single receive configuration may be aligned on a beam direction determined based on listening according to different receive configuration directions (e.g., a beam direction determined to have the highest signal strength, highest signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), or otherwise acceptable signal quality based on listening according to multiple beam directions).

[0125] The wireless communication system 100 can be a packet-based network that operates according to a layered protocol stack. In the user plane, communications at the bearer or packet data convergence protocol (PDCP) layer can be IP-based. The radio link control (RLC) layer can perform packet segmentation and reassembly to communicate on logical channels. The medium access control (MAC) layer can perform priority processing and multiplexing of logical channels to transport channels. The MAC layer can also use error detection technology, error correction technology, or both to support retransmission at the MAC layer to improve link efficiency. In the control plane, the radio resource control (RRC) protocol layer can provide the establishment, configuration, and maintenance of the RRC connection between the UE 115 and the base station 105 or the core network 130 to support radio bearers for user plane data. At the physical layer, transport channels can be mapped to physical channels.

[0126] UE 115 and base station 105 can support retransmission of data to increase the likelihood that the data is successfully received. Hybrid automatic repeat request (HARQ) feedback is a technique for increasing the likelihood that data is correctly received on communication link 125. HARQ can include a combination of error detection (e.g., using a cyclic redundancy check (CRC)), forward error correction (FEC), and retransmission (e.g., automatic repeat request (ARQ)). HARQ can improve throughput at the MAC layer under poor radio conditions (e.g., low signal-to-noise ratio conditions). In some examples, a device can support HARQ feedback for the same time slot, wherein the device can provide HARQ feedback for data received in previous symbols in a particular time slot in the time slot. In other cases, the device can provide HARQ feedback in a subsequent time slot or according to some other time interval.

[0127] In some examples, when UE 115 is operating in idle mode or inactive mode, UE 115 can receive a broadcast transmission from base station 105. In some cases, the broadcast transmission can include a reference signal configuration for communication between base station 105 and UE 115. In some cases, the reference signal configuration can indicate one or more reference signal parameters. When operating in idle mode or inactive mode, UE 115 can receive one or more reference signals from the base station according to the reference signal configuration. In some cases, UE 115 can determine one or more channel measurements based at least in part on the one or more reference signals received from the base station.

[0128] Figure 2 An example of a wireless communication subsystem 200 supporting transmission of reference signal configurations in broadcast messages for idle and inactive user equipments is shown in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. In some examples, the wireless communication subsystem 200 may implement aspects of the wireless communication system 100.

[0129] As shown, the wireless communication subsystem 200 may include a UE 115-a and a base station 105-a, which may be referred to herein as Figure 1 Examples of UE 115 or base station 105 are described. The wireless communication subsystem 200 may also include a downlink 205 and an uplink 210. The base station 105-a may use the downlink 205 to transmit control and / or data information to the UE 115-a. Also, the UE 115-a may use the uplink 210 to transmit control and / or data information to the base station 105-a. In some cases, the downlink 205 may use different time and / or frequency resources than the uplink 210.

[0130] In some examples, when UE 115-a is operating in idle mode or inactive mode, UE 115-a may receive a broadcast transmission from base station 105-a. In some cases, the broadcast transmission may include a reference signal configuration 215 for communication between base station 105-a and UE 115-a. In some cases, reference signal configuration 215 may indicate one or more reference signal parameters. When operating in idle mode or inactive mode, UE 115-a may receive one or more reference signals from the base station according to reference signal configuration 215. In some cases, UE 115-a may determine one or more channel measurements based at least in part on the one or more reference signals received from the base station.

[0131] In some cases, the base station 105-a may send the resource signal configuration or an indication of the resource signal configuration in a system information block, a physical downlink control channel, a physical downlink shared channel, or any combination thereof. In some cases, the base station 105-a may broadcast or multicast the complete resource signal configuration, a partial resource signal configuration, an indicator of the resource signal configuration, or any combination thereof. The indicator of the resource signal configuration may indicate whether the resource signal is available or unavailable. In some cases, the indicator of the resource signal configuration may indicate whether the resource signal configuration is updated or not updated, or whether the resource signal is available and the resource signal configuration is updated or the resource signal is unavailable.

[0132] The present techniques can improve network efficiency and reduce network latency while UEs (e.g., UE 115-a) conserve power by operating in an inactive or idle mode, thereby improving the user experience of one or more UEs based on improved quality of service. In some cases, the described techniques can support improvements in system efficiency by enabling UE 115-a to perform channel measurements while in an inactive or idle mode. Additionally, the described techniques can result in improved quality of service by reducing system latency and improving the reliability of channel measurements while the UE conserves battery life by continuing to operate in an inactive or idle mode.

[0133] Figure 3 An example of an environment 300 that supports transmission of reference signal configurations in broadcast messages for idle and inactive user equipments according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown. In some examples, environment 300 can implement aspects of wireless communication system 100.

[0134] In some examples, environment 300 can illustrate aspects of one or more fields of a physical downlink control channel. In some cases, a base station (e.g., base station 105) can send a resource signal configuration or an indication of a resource signal configuration in one or more fields of a physical downlink control channel (PDCCH) as depicted in environment 300.

[0135] In the example shown, the one or more fields of the depicted PDCCH may include an optional common field 305, an optional dynamic indication field 310, a content field 315, and a cyclic redundancy check (CRC) field 320. In some cases, the one or more fields of the depicted PDCCH may include X dynamic indication fields 310 for X groups of UEs and Y content fields 315 for Y groups of UEs. In some cases, X and Y are positive integers, and Y is equal to or less than X.

[0136] In some cases, the depicted PDCCH fields may carry information for multiple groups of UEs associated in the same paging occasion. In some cases, the depicted PDCCH may carry information for a single group of UEs associated in the same paging occasion. In some cases, the dynamic indication field 310 may indicate whether any group in the X groups of UEs is to be paged in the next paging occasion. In some cases, the UE may identify the dynamic indication field 310, wherein the identified dynamic indication field 310 indicates that a group of UEs in the X groups of UEs is to be paged in the next paging occasion. In some cases, each paged group in the X groups of UEs may be mapped to Y content fields 315. In some cases, each of the X dynamic indication fields 310 may be mapped to Y content fields 315 (e.g., a one-to-one mapping, with dynamic indication field 0 mapped to content field 0, dynamic indication field 1 mapped to content field 1, etc.).

[0137] In some examples, one or more fields of the depicted PDCCH may not include the common field 305, or may not include the dynamic indication field 310, or may not include either. In some cases, the one or more fields of the depicted PDCCH may include at least a content field 315 and a CRC field 320. In some cases, the content field 315 may carry resource signal configuration information for UEs in group Y. In some cases, the first bit of each content field 315 may indicate whether the associated UE is paged (e.g., paged in the next paging opportunity). In some cases, the remaining bits of each content field 315 may include a resource signal configuration (e.g., a complete resource signal configuration, a partial resource signal configuration, an indicator of a resource signal configuration, or any combination thereof). In some cases, the UE may receive a reference signal configuration or an update to the reference signal configuration based on the paging indicator of the content field 315.

[0138] In some examples, the UE is in sleep mode and may wake up (e.g., during a paging occasion) to receive the PDCCH to determine whether an update to the resource configuration or a new resource configuration is available. In some cases, the UE may determine based on the PDCCH whether the resource configuration is being broadcast to a group of UEs that includes the UE. In some cases, the UE may periodically wake up and monitor the PDCCH to check for the presence of a paging message (e.g., the UE may look for information encrypted by a paging radio network temporary identifier).

[0139] Figure 4An example of a process flow 400 for supporting transmission of a reference signal configuration in a broadcast message for idle and inactive user equipment according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown. In some examples, the process flow 400 can implement aspects of the wireless communication system 100. In some examples, the process flow 400 can be implemented by or can implement aspects of the wireless communication system 100. For example, the UE 115-b and the base station 105-b can be reference signal configurations. Figure 1 Examples of corresponding devices, etc. described.

[0140] At 405, the base station 105-b may send a reference signal configuration to the UE 115-b. In some cases, the sent reference signal configuration may be configured by the base station 105-b for communication between the base station 105-b and the UE 115-b. In some cases, the base station 105-b may send the reference signal configuration to one or more groups of UEs in a broadcast transmission or a multicast transmission, where one of the groups of UEs includes the UE 115-b. In some cases, when the UE 115-b receives the sent reference signal configuration, the UE 115-b may be operating in an idle mode or an inactive mode. In some cases, the reference signal configuration may indicate one or more reference signal parameters. In some cases, one or more parameters of the reference signal configuration may include a channel state resource configuration indication (e.g., a zero power (ZP) channel state information reference signal indicator, a non-zero power (NZP) channel state information reference signal indicator, CSI-ResourceConfig, ZP-CSI-RS-ResourceSetList, NZP-CSI-RS-ResourceSet, or NZP-CSI-RS-Resource).

[0141] In some examples, UE 115-b may receive a reference signal configuration in one or more system information blocks. In some cases, when the type of the one or more system information blocks does not include a type-1 system information block, UE 115-b may periodically receive the one or more system information blocks based at least in part on scheduling information indicated in the type-1 system information blocks received by UE 115-b.

[0142] In some examples, UE 115-b may receive an update to a reference signal configuration in one or more system information blocks, wherein the reference signal configuration, the update to the reference signal configuration, or both are indicated by one or more bits of the paging downlink control information. In some cases, UE 115-b may determine that the reference signal configuration is updated based at least in part on a system information modification bit of a short message of the paging downlink control information. In some cases, UE 115-b may determine that the reference signal configuration is updated based at least in part on a bit in a set of unused bits of the short message of the paging downlink control information.

[0143] In some examples, UE 115-b may receive an indication of the availability of a reference signal or an update to the reference signal configuration in a physical downlink control channel, where the availability or update is indicated by one or more bits of the paging downlink control information. When the indication indicates that the reference signal is available, base station 105-b may continue to send the reference signal. When the indication indicates that the reference signal is not available, base station 105-b may stop or may have stopped sending the reference signal (e.g., the indication may indicate that base station 105-b is not or is no longer sending the reference signal). Thus, when the indication indicates that the reference signal is available, UE 115-b may determine that base station 105-b continues to send the reference signal, thereby enabling UE 115-b to continue monitoring and receiving the reference signal. When the indication indicates that the reference signal is not available, UE 115-b may determine that base station 105-b is not sending the reference signal, in which case UE 115-b may stop monitoring the reference signal.

[0144] In some cases, UE 115-b may determine that one or more bits of the paging downlink control information indicate that a reference signal is available or that a reference signal configuration is updated. In some cases, a set of unused bits of the paging downlink control information, a set of reserved bits of the paging downlink control information, or both include one or more bits of the paging downlink control information. In some cases, the paging downlink control information is associated with physical downlink shared channel scheduling information. In some cases, when one or more bits of the paging downlink control information indicate that a reference signal is available, or that a reference signal configuration is updated, or both, UE 115-b may receive a reference signal configuration or an updated reference signal configuration (e.g., a set of parameters of the reference signal configuration, or an updated set of parameters of the reference signal configuration) in a system information block or a physical downlink shared channel (e.g., a system information block or a physical downlink shared channel scheduled by the paging downlink control information).

[0145] In some examples, UE 115-b may determine that the one or more bits of the paging downlink control information include a first bit for indicating whether a reference signal is available or unavailable, or a second bit for indicating whether a reference signal configuration is updated or not updated, or both. In some cases, the one or more bits of the paging downlink control information include one bit for each reference signal resource of the reference signal configuration. In some cases, the one or more bits of the paging downlink control information include one bit for each reference signal resource group of the reference signal configuration. In some cases, the one or more bits of the paging downlink control information include one bit for each reference signal resource set of the reference signal configuration. In some cases, the one or more bits of the paging downlink control information include one bit for each group of reference signal resource sets of the reference signal configuration.

[0146] In some examples, UE 115-b may determine an identifier for each reference signal resource, each reference signal resource set, each reference signal resource group, or each group of reference signal resource sets from smallest identifier to largest identifier. In some cases, UE 115-b may map reference signal resources, reference signal resource sets, groups of reference signal resources, or groups of reference signal resource sets to groups of bits in order from smallest identifier to largest identifier. In some cases, the reference signal resource, reference signal resource set, group of reference signal resources, or group of reference signal resource sets with the smallest identifier is mapped to the least significant bit in the group of bits, the reference signal resource, reference signal resource set, group of reference signal resources, or group of reference signal resource sets with the next smallest identifier is mapped to the next least significant bit in the group of bits, and so on, until the reference signal resource, reference signal resource set, group of reference signal resources, or group of reference signal resource sets with the largest identifier is mapped to the most significant bit in the group of bits.

[0147] In some examples, UE 115-b may receive information regarding the availability of a reference signal configuration or an update to the reference signal configuration in a paging indicator of a physical downlink control channel. In some cases, the physical downlink control channel carries information for at least one group of UEs 115-B associated with a paging occasion. In some cases, UE 115-b may identify a dynamic indication field of the physical downlink control channel, wherein the dynamic indication field may indicate that a group of UEs 115-B in at least one group of UEs 115-B is to be paged in a next paging occasion, the group of UEs 115-B including the UE 115-B. In some cases, UE 115-b may identify a content field of the physical downlink control channel, wherein a first bit of the content field may indicate whether UE 115-B is to be paged in the next paging occasion, and the remaining bits of the content field include information regarding the availability of a reference signal or an update to the reference signal configuration.

[0148] In some examples, UE 115-b may receive a reference signal configuration or an update to a reference signal configuration in one or more reference signal sequences. In some cases, the reference signal configuration is encoded when at least one of the one or more reference signal sequences is generated.

[0149] In some examples, UE 115-b may receive a reference signal configuration or an update to a reference signal configuration in a physical downlink shared channel. In some cases, UE 115-b may determine that one or more bits in a set of unused bits of a short message of paging downlink control information indicate that the physical downlink shared channel includes a reference signal configuration or an update to a reference signal configuration. In some cases, UE 115-b may determine that one or more bits in a set of reserved bits of paging downlink control information indicate that the physical downlink shared channel includes a reference signal configuration or an update to a reference signal configuration. In some examples, UE 115-b may receive a reference signal configuration or an update to a reference signal configuration in a nonCriticalExtension of a paging message, wherein pagingRecordList may not be included in the paging message.

[0150] In some examples, UE 115-b may receive a second reference signal configuration in a physical downlink shared channel carrying a system information block after receiving the reference signal configuration. In some examples, UE 115-b may receive an update to the reference signal configuration in a physical downlink shared channel scheduled by downlink control information scrambled by a paging radio network temporary identifier. In some examples, UE 115-b may overwrite the reference signal configuration in memory with the second reference signal configuration based at least in part on receiving the second reference signal configuration in the physical downlink shared channel. In some examples, UE 115-b may update at least a portion of the reference signal configuration in memory based at least in part on receiving the update to the reference signal configuration in the physical downlink shared channel.

[0151] In some examples, UE 115-b may identify a channel state information resource configuration in a reference signal configuration. In some examples, UE 115-b may identify a channel state information resource for a resource identifier linked to a resource set provided in the reference signal configuration, where the channel state information resource may be quasi-co-located with one or more synchronization signal blocks.

[0152] At 410, the base station 105-b may transmit one or more reference signals to the UE 115-b. When operating in an idle mode or an inactive mode, the UE 115-b may receive the one or more reference signals. In some cases, the UE 115-b may receive the one or more reference signals from the base station 105-b according to the reference signal configuration transmitted at 405.

[0153] In some examples, UE 115-b may determine the availability of one or more reference signals based at least in part on the one or more reference signal sequences. In some examples, receiving a first reference signal sequence from the one or more reference signal sequences indicates that the one or more reference signals remain available, receiving a second reference signal sequence from the one or more reference signal sequences that is different from the first reference signal sequence indicates that the one or more reference signals do not remain available, and not receiving either the first reference signal sequence or the second reference signal sequence indicates that UE 115-B is not to be paged in a next paging occasion.

[0154] In some examples, when the one or more reference signals at 410 are configured for a serving cell, the one or more system information blocks include a type 1 system information block. In some cases, when the one or more reference signals at 410 are configured for an intra-frequency neighboring cell, the one or more system information blocks include a type 2 system information block or a type 3 system information block, or both. In some cases, when the one or more reference signals at 410 are configured for an inter-frequency neighboring cell, the one or more system information blocks include a type 4 system information block or a type 5 system information block, or both.

[0155] At 415 , UE 115 - b may determine one or more channel measurements based at least in part on one or more reference signals received at 410 from base station 105 - b .

[0156] At 420, UE 115-b may optionally send one or more channel measurements to base station 105-b. In some cases, UE 115-b may determine the one or more channel measurements based at least in part on one or more reference signals and, in some cases, may send one or more of the determined channel measurements to base station 105-b.

[0157] Figure 5 A block diagram 500 of a device 505 supporting transmission of reference signal configurations in broadcast messages for idle and inactive user equipment according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown. The device 505 can be an example of aspects of the UE 115 described herein. The device 505 can include a receiver 510, a communication manager 515, and a transmitter 520. The device 505 can also include a processor. Each of these components can communicate with each other (e.g., via one or more buses).

[0158] The receiver 510 may receive information such as packets, user data, or control information associated with various information channels (e.g., control channels, data channels, and information related to transmission of reference signal configurations in broadcast messages for idle and inactive user equipment). The information may be passed to other components of the device 505. The receiver 510 may be a reference signal. Figure 8 Examples of aspects of the described transceiver 820. The receiver 510 may utilize a single antenna or a collection of antennas.

[0159] The communication manager 515 may receive a broadcast transmission including a reference signal configuration for communication between the base station and the UE from a base station when the UE is operating in a first mode, the reference signal configuration indicating one or more reference signal parameters, and the first mode being an idle mode or an inactive mode; when operating in the first mode, receive one or more reference signals from the base station according to the reference signal configuration; and determine one or more channel measurements based on the one or more reference signals received from the base station. The communication manager 515 may be an example of aspects of the communication manager 810 described herein.

[0160] The communication manager 515 or its subcomponents may be implemented in hardware, in code executed by a processor (e.g., software or firmware), or any combination thereof. If implemented in code executed by a processor, the functions of the communication manager 515 or its subcomponents may be performed by a general purpose processor, a DSP, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), an FPGA or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described in this disclosure.

[0161] The communication manager 515 or its subcomponents can be physically located at various locations, including being distributed so that portions of the functionality are implemented by one or more physical components at different physical locations. In some examples, according to various aspects of the present disclosure, the communication manager 515 or its subcomponents can be separate and distinct components. In some examples, according to various aspects of the present disclosure, the communication manager 515 or its subcomponents can be combined with one or more other hardware components, including but not limited to: input / output (I / O) components, a transceiver, a network server, another computing device, one or more other components described in the present disclosure, or a combination thereof.

[0162] The transmitter 520 may transmit signals generated by other components of the device 505. In some examples, the transmitter 520 may be co-located with the receiver 510 in a transceiver module. For example, the transmitter 520 may be a reference Figure 8 Examples of aspects of the described transceiver 820. The transmitter 520 may utilize a single antenna or a collection of antennas.

[0163] Figure 6 A block diagram 600 of a device 605 supporting transmission of a reference signal configuration in a broadcast message for idle and inactive user equipment according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown. The device 605 may be an example of aspects of the device 505 or UE 115 described herein. The device 605 may include a receiver 610, a communication manager 615, and a transmitter 635. The device 605 may also include a processor. Each of these components may communicate with each other (e.g., via one or more buses).

[0164] The receiver 610 may receive information such as packets, user data, or control information associated with various information channels (e.g., control channels, data channels, and information related to transmission of reference signal configurations in broadcast messages for idle and inactive user equipment). The information may be passed to other components of the device 605. The receiver 610 may be a reference signal. Figure 8 Examples of aspects of the described transceiver 820. The receiver 610 may utilize a single antenna or a collection of antennas.

[0165] Communications manager 615 may be an example of aspects of communications manager 515 described herein. Communications manager 615 may include configuration manager 620, reference signal manager 625, and measurement manager 630. Communications manager 615 may be an example of aspects of communications manager 810 described herein.

[0166] The communication manager 620 may receive a broadcast transmission from a base station including a reference signal configuration for communication between the base station and the UE when the UE is operating in a first mode, the reference signal configuration indicating one or more reference signal parameters, and the first mode is an idle mode or an inactive mode.

[0167] When operating in the first mode, the reference signal manager 625 may receive one or more reference signals from a base station according to a reference signal configuration.The measurement manager 630 may determine one or more channel measurements based on the one or more reference signals received from the base station.

[0168] The transmitter 635 can transmit signals generated by other components of the device 605. In some examples, the transmitter 635 can be co-located with the receiver 610 in a transceiver module. For example, the transmitter 635 can be a reference Figure 8 Examples of aspects of the described transceiver 820. The transmitter 635 may utilize a single antenna or a collection of antennas.

[0169] Figure 7 A block diagram 700 of a communication manager 705 supporting transmission of reference signal configurations in broadcast messages for idle and inactive user equipments according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown. The communication manager 705 may be an example of aspects of the communication manager 515, the communication manager 615, or the communication manager 810 described herein. The communication manager 705 may include a configuration manager 710, a reference signal manager 715, a measurement manager 720, a system information manager 725, a control channel manager 730, and a shared channel manager 735. Each of these modules may communicate with each other directly or indirectly (e.g., via one or more buses).

[0170] The communication manager 710 may receive a broadcast transmission from a base station including a reference signal configuration for communication between the base station and the UE when the UE is operating in a first mode, the reference signal configuration indicating one or more reference signal parameters, and the first mode is an idle mode or an inactive mode.

[0171] In some examples, the configuration manager 710 may receive a reference signal configuration or an update to the reference signal configuration in a nonCriticalExtension of a paging message, wherein the pagingRecordList is not included in the paging message. In some examples, the configuration manager 710 may receive a second reference signal configuration in a system information block after receiving the reference signal configuration.

[0172] In some examples, the configuration manager 710 may overwrite the reference signal configuration in the memory with the second reference signal configuration based at least in part on receiving the second reference signal configuration in the system information block. In some examples, the configuration manager 710 may receive an update to the reference signal configuration in a physical downlink shared channel scheduled by downlink control information scrambled by a paging radio network temporary identifier.

[0173] In some examples, the configuration manager 710 may update at least a portion of the reference signal configuration in the memory based on receiving an update to the reference signal configuration in a physical downlink shared channel. In some examples, the configuration manager 710 may identify a channel state information resource configuration in the reference signal configuration. In some examples, the configuration manager 710 may identify a channel state information resource for a resource identifier linked to a resource set provided in the reference signal configuration, wherein the channel state information resource is mapped to one or more synchronization signal blocks.

[0174] When operating in the first mode, the reference signal manager 715 may receive one or more reference signals from a base station according to a reference signal configuration.

[0175] The measurement manager 720 may determine one or more channel measurements based on one or more reference signals received from a base station.

[0176] The system information manager 725 may receive the reference signal configuration in one or more system information blocks.

[0177] In some examples, when the type of one or more system information blocks does not include a type 1 system information block, the system information manager 725 may periodically receive one or more system information blocks based at least in part on scheduling information indicated in a type 1 system information block received by the UE.

[0178] In some examples, the system information manager 725 may receive an update to a reference signal configuration in one or more system information blocks, where the reference signal configuration or the update to the reference signal configuration, or both, is indicated by one or more bits of paging downlink control information.

[0179] In some examples, the system information manager 725 may determine that a reference signal configuration or an update to the reference signal configuration is available based on a system information modification bit of a short message of paging downlink control information. In some examples, the system information manager 725 may determine that a reference signal configuration or an update to the reference signal configuration is available based on a bit in a set of unused bits of a short message of paging downlink control information.

[0180] In some cases, when one or more reference signals are configured for a serving cell, the one or more system information blocks include a type 1 system information block. In some cases, when one or more reference signals are configured for an intra-frequency neighboring cell, the one or more system information blocks include a type 2 system information block or a type 3 system information block, or both. In some cases, when one or more reference signals are configured for an inter-frequency neighboring cell, the one or more system information blocks include a type 4 system information block or a type 5 system information block, or both.

[0181] The control channel manager 730 may receive a reference signal configuration or an update to the reference signal configuration in a physical downlink control channel, where the update is indicated by one or more bits of the paging downlink control information.

[0182] In some examples, the control channel manager 730 may determine that one or more bits of the paging downlink control information indicate that a reference signal configuration or an update to the reference signal configuration is available in the physical downlink control channel.

[0183] In some examples, the control channel manager 730 can determine that the one or more bits of the paging downlink control information include a first bit for indicating whether the reference signal configuration is in a physical downlink control channel, a second bit for indicating whether an update to the reference signal configuration is in a physical downlink control channel, or both. In some examples, the control channel manager 730 can determine an identifier for each reference signal resource set in the group of reference signal resource sets from a smallest identifier to a largest identifier.

[0184] In some examples, the control channel manager 730 may map groups of reference signal resource sets to groups of bits in order from smallest identifier to largest identifier, wherein the reference signal resource set with the smallest identifier in the group of reference signal resource sets is mapped to the least significant bit in the group of bits, and the reference signal resource set with the largest identifier in the group of reference signal resource sets is mapped to the most significant bit in the group of bits.

[0185] In some examples, the control channel manager 730 may receive a reference signal configuration or an update to the reference signal configuration in a paging indicator of a physical downlink control channel. In some examples, the control channel manager 730 may identify a dynamic indication field of the physical downlink control channel, wherein the dynamic indication field indicates that a group of UEs in at least one group of UEs is to be paged in a next paging occasion, the group of UEs including the UE.

[0186] In some examples, a content field of a physical downlink control channel is identified, wherein a first bit of the content field indicates whether the UE is paged in a next paging occasion and the remaining bits of the content field include a reference signal configuration or an update to the reference signal configuration.

[0187] In some examples, the control channel manager 730 may receive a reference signal configuration or an update to a reference signal configuration in one or more reference signal sequences associated with a physical downlink control channel. In some examples, the control channel manager 730 may determine the availability of one or more reference signals based on the one or more reference signal sequences associated with the physical downlink control channel.

[0188] In some examples, the control channel manager 730 may receive a first reference signal sequence from one or more reference signal sequences to indicate that one or more reference signals remain available, receive a second reference signal sequence from one or more reference signal sequences and different from the first reference signal sequence to indicate that one or more reference signals do not remain available, and receive neither the first reference signal sequence nor the second reference signal sequence to indicate that the UE is not paged in the next paging occasion.

[0189] In some cases, the set of unused bits of the paging downlink control information, or the set of reserved bits of the paging downlink control information, or both, include one or more bits of the paging downlink control information. In some cases, the paging downlink control information is associated with physical downlink shared channel scheduling information. In some cases, the one or more bits of the paging downlink control information include one bit for each reference signal resource of the reference signal configuration. In some cases, the one or more bits of the paging downlink control information include one bit for each reference signal resource group of the reference signal configuration. In some cases, the one or more bits of the paging downlink control information include one or two bits for indicating whether the reference signal resource set of the reference signal configuration is available or unavailable. In some cases, the one or more bits of the paging downlink control information include a group of bits for indicating which reference signal resource sets in the group of reference signal resource sets of the reference signal configuration are available and which reference signal resource sets in the group of reference signal resource sets of the reference signal configuration are unavailable.

[0190] In some cases, a physical downlink control channel carries information for at least a group of UEs associated with a paging occasion.In some cases, a reference signal configuration is encoded when at least one of the one or more reference signal sequences is generated.

[0191] The shared channel manager 735 may receive a reference signal configuration or an update to the reference signal configuration in a physical downlink shared channel. In some examples, the shared channel manager 735 may determine that one or more bits in a set of unused bits of a short message of paging downlink control information indicate that the physical downlink shared channel includes a reference signal configuration or an update to the reference signal configuration.

[0192] In some examples, the shared channel manager 735 may determine that one or more bits in the set of reserved bits of the paging downlink control information indicate that the physical downlink shared channel includes a reference signal configuration or an update to the reference signal configuration.

[0193] Figure 8A schematic diagram of a system 800 including a device 805 that supports transmission of a reference signal configuration in a broadcast message for idle and inactive user equipment according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown. The device 805 can be an example of the device 505, device 605, or UE 115 described herein, or include components of the device 505, device 605, or UE 115. The device 805 can include components for two-way voice and data communication, including components for sending and receiving communications, including a communication manager 810, an I / O controller 815, a transceiver 820, an antenna 825, a memory 830, and a processor 840. These components can communicate electronically via one or more buses (e.g., bus 845).

[0194] The communication manager 810 can receive a broadcast transmission including a reference signal configuration for communication between the base station and the UE from a base station when the UE is operating in a first mode, the reference signal configuration indicating one or more reference signal parameters, and the first mode is an idle mode or an inactive mode; when operating in the first mode, receive one or more reference signals from the base station according to the reference signal configuration; and determine one or more channel measurements based on the one or more reference signals received from the base station.

[0195] I / O controller 815 can manage input and output signals for device 805. I / O controller 815 can also manage peripheral devices that are not integrated into device 805. In some cases, I / O controller 815 can represent a physical connection or port to an external peripheral device. In some cases, I / O controller 815 can utilize an operating system, such as, or another well-known operating system. In other cases, I / O controller 815 may represent or interact with a modem, keyboard, mouse, touch screen, or similar device. In some cases, I / O controller 815 may be implemented as part of a processor. In some cases, a user may interact with device 805 via I / O controller 815 or via hardware components controlled by I / O controller 815.

[0196] As described herein, the transceiver 820 can communicate bidirectionally via one or more antennas, wired or wireless links. For example, the transceiver 820 can represent a wireless transceiver and can communicate bidirectionally with another wireless transceiver. The transceiver 820 can also include a modem to modulate packets and provide the modulated packets to the antenna for transmission, as well as demodulate packets received from the antenna.

[0197] In some cases, a wireless device may include a single antenna 825. However, in some cases, a device may have more than one antenna 825, which may be capable of sending or receiving multiple wireless transmissions simultaneously.

[0198] The memory 830 may include RAM and ROM. The memory 830 may store computer-readable, computer-executable code 835 including instructions that, when executed, cause the processor to perform the various functions described herein. In some cases, the memory 830 may contain (among other things) a BIOS that may control basic hardware and software operations (such as interaction with peripheral components or devices).

[0199] The processor 840 may include an intelligent hardware device (e.g., a general-purpose processor, a DSP, a CPU, a microcontroller, an ASIC, an FPGA, a programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic components, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof). In some cases, the processor 840 may be configured to operate a memory array using a memory controller. In other cases, the memory controller may be integrated into the processor 840. The processor 840 may be configured to execute computer-readable instructions stored in a memory (e.g., memory 830) to cause the device 805 to perform various functions (e.g., functions or tasks that support the transmission of reference signal configurations in broadcast messages for idle and inactive user equipment).

[0200] The code 835 may include instructions for implementing aspects of the present disclosure, including instructions for supporting wireless communications. The code 835 may be stored in a non-transitory computer-readable medium (such as system memory or other types of memory). In some cases, the code 835 may not be directly executable by the processor 840, but may cause a computer (e.g., when compiled or executed) to perform the functions described herein.

[0201] Figure 9 A block diagram 900 of a device 905 supporting transmission of reference signal configurations in broadcast messages for idle and inactive user equipment according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown. The device 905 can be an example of aspects of the base station 105 described herein. The device 905 can include a receiver 910, a communication manager 915, and a transmitter 920. The device 905 can also include a processor. Each of these components can communicate with each other (e.g., via one or more buses).

[0202] The receiver 910 may receive information such as packets, user data, or control information associated with various information channels (e.g., control channels, data channels, and information related to transmission of reference signal configurations in broadcast messages for idle and inactive user equipment). The information may be passed to other components of the device 905. The receiver 910 may be a reference signal. Figure 12 Examples of aspects of the described transceiver 1220. The receiver 910 may utilize a single antenna or a collection of antennas.

[0203] The communication manager 915 may generate a reference signal configuration for communication between a base station and a UE operating in a first mode, the reference signal configuration indicating one or more reference signal parameters, and the first mode being an idle mode or an inactive mode; send a broadcast transmission including the reference signal configuration to the UE; send one or more reference signals to the UE according to the reference signal configuration when the UE is operating in the first mode; and receive one or more channel measurements from the UE based on the one or more reference signals sent to the UE. The communication manager 915 may be an example of aspects of the communication manager 1210 described herein.

[0204] The communication manager 915 or its subcomponents may be implemented in hardware, in code executed by a processor (e.g., software or firmware), or any combination thereof. If implemented in code executed by a processor, the functions of the communication manager 915 or its subcomponents may be performed by a general purpose processor, a DSP, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), an FPGA or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described in this disclosure.

[0205] The communication manager 915 or its subcomponents can be physically located at various locations, including being distributed so that portions of the functionality are implemented by one or more physical components at different physical locations. In some examples, according to various aspects of the present disclosure, the communication manager 915 or its subcomponents can be separate and distinct components. In some examples, according to various aspects of the present disclosure, the communication manager 915 or its subcomponents can be combined with one or more other hardware components, including but not limited to: input / output (I / O) components, a transceiver, a network server, another computing device, one or more other components described in the present disclosure, or a combination thereof.

[0206] The transmitter 920 may transmit signals generated by other components of the device 905. In some examples, the transmitter 920 may be co-located with the receiver 910 in a transceiver module. For example, the transmitter 920 may be a reference Figure 12Examples of aspects of the described transceiver 1220. The transmitter 920 may utilize a single antenna or a collection of antennas.

[0207] Figure 10 A block diagram 1000 of a device 1005 supporting transmission of a reference signal configuration in a broadcast message for idle and inactive user equipment according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown. The device 1005 may be an example of aspects of the device 905 or base station 105 described herein. The device 1005 may include a receiver 1010, a communication manager 1015, and a transmitter 1040. The device 1005 may also include a processor. Each of these components may communicate with each other (e.g., via one or more buses).

[0208] The receiver 1010 may receive information such as packets, user data, or control information associated with various information channels (e.g., control channels, data channels, and information related to transmission of reference signal configurations in broadcast messages for idle and inactive user equipment). The information may be passed to other components of the device 1005. The receiver 1010 may be a reference signal. Figure 12 Examples of aspects of the described transceiver 1220. The receiver 1010 may utilize a single antenna or a collection of antennas.

[0209] The communication manager 1015 may be an example of aspects of the communication manager 915 described herein. The communication manager 1015 may include a setup manager 1020, a broadcast manager 1025, a signal manager 1030, and a channel manager 1035. The communication manager 1015 may be an example of aspects of the communication manager 1210 described herein.

[0210] The setup manager 1020 may generate a reference signal configuration for communication between a base station and a UE operating in a first mode, the reference signal configuration indicating one or more reference signal parameters, and the first mode being an idle mode or an inactive mode. The broadcast manager 1025 may send a broadcast transmission including the reference signal configuration to the UE.

[0211] Signal manager 1030 may send one or more reference signals to the UE according to the reference signal configuration when the UE is operating in the first mode.Channel manager 1035 may receive one or more channel measurements from the UE based on the one or more reference signals sent to the UE.

[0212] The transmitter 1040 may transmit signals generated by other components of the device 1005. In some examples, the transmitter 1040 may be co-located with the receiver 1010 in a transceiver module. For example, the transmitter 1040 may be a reference Figure 12Examples of aspects of the described transceiver 1220. The transmitter 1040 may utilize a single antenna or a collection of antennas.

[0213] Figure 11 A block diagram 1100 of a communication manager 1105 supporting transmission of reference signal configurations in broadcast messages for idle and inactive user equipment is shown in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. The communication manager 1105 may be an example of aspects of the communication manager 915, the communication manager 1015, or the communication manager 1210 described herein. The communication manager 1105 may include a setup manager 1110, a broadcast manager 1115, a signal manager 1120, a channel manager 1125, a system manager 1130, a control manager 1135, and a data manager 1140. Each of these modules may communicate with each other directly or indirectly (e.g., via one or more buses).

[0214] The setup manager 1110 may generate a reference signal configuration for communication between a base station and a UE operating in a first mode, the reference signal configuration indicating one or more reference signal parameters, and the first mode being an idle mode or an inactive mode.

[0215] In some examples, the setup manager 1110 may receive a reference signal configuration or an update to a reference signal configuration in a nonCriticalExtension of a paging message, wherein a pagingRecordList is not included in the paging message.

[0216] In some examples, the setup manager 1110 may send a second reference signal configuration in a system information block after sending the reference signal configuration, wherein the UE is configured to overwrite the reference signal configuration in the memory with the second reference signal configuration based on the UE receiving the second reference signal configuration in the system information block.

[0217] In some examples, the setup manager 1110 may configure the reference signal configuration to include a channel state information resource configuration.

[0218] In some examples, the setup manager 1110 can configure the reference signal configuration to include a channel state information resource for a resource identifier linked to a resource set, where the channel state information resource is mapped to one or more synchronization signal blocks.

[0219] Broadcast manager 1115 may send a broadcast transmission including a reference signal configuration to the UE.Signal manager 1120 may send one or more reference signals to the UE according to the reference signal configuration when the UE is operating in the first mode.

[0220] Channel manager 1125 may receive one or more channel measurements from the UE based on one or more reference signals sent to the UE.System manager 1130 may send reference signal configurations in one or more system information blocks.

[0221] In some examples, when the type of one or more system information blocks does not include a type 1 system information block, the system manager 1130 may periodically send one or more system information blocks based on scheduling information indicated in a type 1 system information block sent by the base station to the UE.

[0222] In some examples, the system manager 1130 may send an update to the reference signal configuration in one or more system information blocks, where the reference signal configuration or the update to the reference signal configuration, or both, is indicated by one or more bits of the paging downlink control information.

[0223] In some examples, the system manager 1130 may indicate that a reference signal configuration or an update to the reference signal configuration is available based on a system information modification bit of a short message of the paging downlink control information.

[0224] In some examples, the system manager 1130 may indicate that a reference signal configuration or an update to the reference signal configuration is available based on a bit in a set of unused bits of a short message of paging downlink control information.

[0225] In some cases, when one or more reference signals are configured for a serving cell, the one or more system information blocks include a type 1 system information block. In some cases, when one or more reference signals are configured for an intra-frequency neighboring cell, the one or more system information blocks include a type 2 system information block or a type 3 system information block, or both. In some cases, when one or more reference signals are configured for an inter-frequency neighboring cell, the one or more system information blocks include a type 4 system information block or a type 5 system information block, or both.

[0226] The control manager 1135 may send a reference signal configuration or an update to the reference signal configuration in a physical downlink control channel, where the update is indicated by one or more bits of the paging downlink control information. In some examples, the control manager 1135 may indicate in one or more bits of the paging downlink control information that the reference signal configuration or an update to the reference signal configuration is available in the physical downlink control channel.

[0227] In some examples, the control manager 1135 can configure a first bit of the one or more bits of the paging downlink control information to indicate whether the reference signal configuration is in a physical downlink control channel, or a second bit of the one or more bits of the paging downlink control information to indicate whether an update to the reference signal configuration is in a physical downlink control channel, or both. In some examples, the control manager 1135 can configure the one or more bits of the paging downlink control information to include one bit per reference signal resource of the reference signal configuration.

[0228] In some examples, the control manager 1135 can configure one or more bits of the paging downlink control information to include one bit for each reference signal resource set of the reference signal configuration. In some examples, the control manager 1135 can configure one or more bits of the paging downlink control information to include one or two bits for indicating whether the reference signal resource set of the reference signal configuration is available or unavailable.

[0229] In some examples, the control manager 1135 may configure one or more bits of the paging downlink control information to include a group of bits for indicating which reference signal resource sets in the group of reference signal resource sets configured for the reference signal are available and which reference signal resource sets in the group of reference signal resource sets configured for the reference signal are unavailable.

[0230] In some examples, the control manager 1135 may determine an identifier for each reference signal resource set in the group of reference signal resource sets from smallest identifier to largest identifier. In some examples, the control manager 1135 may map the group of reference signal resource sets to the group of bits in order from smallest identifier to largest identifier, wherein the reference signal resource set in the group of reference signal resource sets with the smallest identifier is mapped to the least significant bit in the group of bits, and the reference signal resource set in the group of reference signal resource sets with the largest identifier is mapped to the most significant bit in the group of bits.

[0231] In some examples, the control manager 1135 may send the reference signal configuration or an update to the reference signal configuration in a paging indicator of a physical downlink control channel. In some examples, the control manager 1135 may identify a dynamic indication field of the physical downlink control channel, wherein the dynamic indication field indicates that a group of UEs in at least one group of UEs is to be paged in a next paging occasion, the group of UEs including the UE.

[0232] In some examples, the control manager 1135 can configure the first bit of the content field of the physical downlink control channel to indicate whether the UE is to be paged in the next paging occasion, and the remaining bits of the content field to include a reference signal configuration or an update to the reference signal configuration. In some examples, the control manager 1135 can send the reference signal configuration or the update to the reference signal configuration in one or more reference signal sequences associated with the physical downlink control channel.

[0233] In some examples, the control manager 1135 can encode the reference signal configuration when at least one of the one or more reference signal sequences is generated. In some examples, the control manager 1135 can indicate the availability of one or more reference signals based on the one or more reference signal sequences associated with the physical downlink control channel.

[0234] In some examples, the control manager 1135 may send a first reference signal sequence from one or more reference signal sequences to indicate that one or more reference signals remain available, send a second reference signal sequence from one or more reference signal sequences and different from the first reference signal sequence to indicate that one or more reference signals do not remain available, and send neither the first reference signal sequence nor the second reference signal sequence to indicate that the UE is not paged in the next paging occasion.

[0235] In some cases, the set of unused bits of the paging downlink control information, the set of reserved bits of the paging downlink control information, or both include one or more bits of the paging downlink control information. In some cases, the paging downlink control information is associated with physical downlink shared channel scheduling information. In some cases, the physical downlink control channel carries information for at least one group of UEs associated with the paging occasion.

[0236] The data manager 1140 may send the reference signal configuration or an update to the reference signal configuration in a physical downlink shared channel. In some examples, the data manager 1140 may configure one or more bits in a set of unused bits of a short message of paging downlink control information to indicate that the physical downlink shared channel includes the reference signal configuration or an update to the reference signal configuration.

[0237] In some examples, the data manager 1140 may configure one or more bits in a set of reserved bits of a short message of the paging downlink control information to indicate that a physical downlink shared channel includes a reference signal configuration or an update to the reference signal configuration. In some examples, the data manager 1140 may send the update to the reference signal configuration in a physical downlink shared channel scheduled by downlink control information scrambled by a paging radio network temporary identifier, wherein the UE is configured to update at least a portion of the reference signal configuration in memory based on the UE receiving the update to the reference signal configuration in the physical downlink shared channel.

[0238] Figure 12 A schematic diagram of a system 1200 including a device 1205 that supports transmission of a reference signal configuration in a broadcast message for idle and inactive user equipment according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown. The device 1205 can be an example of the device 905, device 1005, or base station 105 described herein, or include components of the device 905, device 1005, or base station 105. The device 1205 can include components for two-way voice and data communication, including components for sending and receiving communications, including a communication manager 1210, a network communication manager 1215, a transceiver 1220, an antenna 1225, a memory 1230, a processor 1240, and an inter-station communication manager 1245. These components can communicate electronically via one or more buses (e.g., bus 1250).

[0239] The communication manager 1210 can generate a reference signal configuration for communication between a base station and a UE operating in a first mode, the reference signal configuration indicating one or more reference signal parameters, and the first mode is an idle mode or an inactive mode; send a broadcast transmission including the reference signal configuration to the UE; send one or more reference signals to the UE according to the reference signal configuration when the UE is operating in the first mode; and receive one or more channel measurements from the UE based on the one or more reference signals sent to the UE.

[0240] The network communications manager 1215 may manage communications with one or more core networks (eg, via one or more wired backhaul links). For example, the network communications manager 1215 may manage the delivery of data communications for client devices, such as one or more UEs 115.

[0241] As described herein, transceiver 1220 can communicate bidirectionally via one or more antennas, wired, or wireless links. For example, transceiver 1220 can represent a wireless transceiver and can communicate bidirectionally with another wireless transceiver. Transceiver 1220 can also include a modem to modulate packets and provide the modulated packets to the antenna for transmission, as well as demodulate packets received from the antenna.

[0242] In some cases, a wireless device may include a single antenna 1225. However, in some cases, a device may have more than one antenna 1225, which may be capable of sending or receiving multiple wireless transmissions simultaneously.

[0243] Memory 1230 may include RAM, ROM, or a combination thereof. Memory 1230 may store computer-readable code 1235 including instructions that, when executed by a processor (e.g., processor 1240), cause the device to perform the various functions described herein. In some cases, memory 1230 may contain (among other things) a BIOS that may control basic hardware and software operations (such as interaction with peripheral components or devices).

[0244] Processor 1240 may include an intelligent hardware device (e.g., a general-purpose processor, a DSP, a CPU, a microcontroller, an ASIC, an FPGA, a programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic components, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof). In some cases, processor 1240 may be configured to operate a memory array using a memory controller. In some cases, the memory controller may be integrated into processor 1240. Processor 1240 may be configured to execute computer-readable instructions stored in a memory (e.g., memory 1230) to cause device 1205 to perform various functions (e.g., functions or tasks that support transmission of reference signal configurations in broadcast messages for idle and inactive user equipment).

[0245] The inter-site communication manager 1245 can manage communications with other base stations 105 and can include a controller or scheduler for controlling communications with the UE 115 in cooperation with the other base stations 105. For example, the inter-site communication manager 1245 can coordinate the scheduling of transmissions to the UE 115 to implement various interference mitigation techniques (such as beamforming or joint transmission). In some examples, the inter-site communication manager 1245 can provide an X2 interface within the LTE / LTE-A wireless communication network technology to provide communications between the base stations 105.

[0246] The code 1235 may include instructions for implementing aspects of the present disclosure, including instructions for supporting wireless communications. The code 1235 may be stored in a non-transitory computer-readable medium (such as system memory or other types of memory). In some cases, the code 1235 may not be directly executable by the processor 1240, but may cause a computer (e.g., when compiled or executed) to perform the functions described herein.

[0247] Figure 13 A flow chart is shown illustrating a method 1300 for supporting transmission of reference signal configurations in broadcast messages for idle and inactive user equipment according to aspects of the present disclosure. The operations of the method 1300 may be implemented by the UE 115 or components thereof as described herein. For example, the operations of the method 1300 may be implemented by the reference signal configurations in the broadcast messages according to aspects of the present disclosure. Figures 5 to 8 In some examples, the UE may execute a set of instructions to control the functional elements of the UE to perform the functions described herein. Additionally or alternatively, the UE may use dedicated hardware to perform aspects of the functions described herein.

[0248] At 1305, when the UE is operating in a first mode, the UE may receive a broadcast transmission from a base station including a reference signal configuration for communication between the base station and the UE, the reference signal configuration indicating one or more reference signal parameters, and the first mode is an idle mode or an inactive mode. The operations of 1305 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of 1305 may be performed by reference to Figures 5 to 8 The configuration manager described here is executed.

[0249] At 1310, when operating in the first mode, the UE may receive one or more reference signals from a base station according to a reference signal configuration. The operations of 1310 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of 1310 may be performed by reference to Figures 5 to 8 The described reference signal manager is implemented.

[0250] At 1315, the UE may determine one or more channel measurements based on one or more reference signals received from the base station. The operations of 1315 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of 1315 may be performed by reference to Figures 5 to 8 The described measurement manager is executed.

[0251] Figure 14A flow chart illustrating a method 1400 for supporting transmission of reference signal configurations in broadcast messages for idle and inactive user equipment according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown. The operations of the method 1400 may be implemented by the UE 115 or components thereof as described herein. For example, the operations of the method 1400 may be implemented by the reference signal configurations in the broadcast messages according to aspects of the present disclosure. Figures 5 to 8 In some examples, the UE may execute a set of instructions to control the functional elements of the UE to perform the functions described herein. Additionally or alternatively, the UE may use dedicated hardware to perform aspects of the functions described herein.

[0252] At 1405, when the UE is operating in a first mode, the UE may receive a broadcast transmission from a base station including a reference signal configuration for communication between the base station and the UE, the reference signal configuration indicating one or more reference signal parameters, and the first mode is an idle mode or an inactive mode. The operations of 1405 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of 1405 may be performed by reference to Figures 5 to 8 The configuration manager described here is executed.

[0253] At 1410, when operating in a first mode, the UE may receive one or more reference signals from a base station according to a reference signal configuration. The operations of 1410 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of 1410 may be performed by reference to Figures 5 to 8 The described reference signal manager is implemented.

[0254] At 1415, the UE may determine one or more channel measurements based on one or more reference signals received from the base station. The operations of 1415 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of 1415 may be performed by reference to Figures 5 to 8 The described measurement manager is executed.

[0255] At 1420, the UE may receive a reference signal configuration in one or more system information blocks. The operations of 1420 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of 1420 may be performed by reference to Figures 5 to 8 The described system information manager is executed.

[0256] Figure 15 A flow chart is shown illustrating a method 1500 for supporting transmission of reference signal configurations in broadcast messages for idle and inactive user equipment according to aspects of the present disclosure. The operations of the method 1500 may be implemented by the UE 115 or components thereof as described herein. For example, the operations of the method 1500 may be implemented by the reference signal configurations in the broadcast messages according to aspects of the present disclosure. Figures 5 to 8In some examples, the UE may execute a set of instructions to control the functional elements of the UE to perform the functions described herein. Additionally or alternatively, the UE may use dedicated hardware to perform aspects of the functions described herein.

[0257] At 1505, when the UE is operating in a first mode, the UE may receive a broadcast transmission from a base station including a reference signal configuration for communication between the base station and the UE, the reference signal configuration indicating one or more reference signal parameters, and the first mode is an idle mode or an inactive mode. The operations of 1505 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of 1505 may be performed by reference to Figures 5 to 8 The configuration manager described here is executed.

[0258] At 1510, when operating in a first mode, the UE may receive one or more reference signals from a base station according to a reference signal configuration. The operations of 1510 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of 1510 may be performed by reference to Figures 5 to 8 The described reference signal manager is implemented.

[0259] At 1515, the UE may determine one or more channel measurements based on one or more reference signals received from the base station. The operations of 1515 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of 1515 may be performed by reference to Figures 5 to 8 The described measurement manager is executed.

[0260] At 1520, the UE may receive a reference signal configuration or an update to the reference signal configuration in a physical downlink control channel, wherein the update is indicated by one or more bits of paging downlink control information. The operations of 1520 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of 1520 may be performed by reference to Figures 5 to 8 The control channel manager described is executed.

[0261] Figure 16 A flow chart illustrating a method 1600 for supporting transmission of reference signal configurations in broadcast messages for idle and inactive user equipment according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown. The operations of the method 1600 may be implemented by the UE 115 or components thereof as described herein. For example, the operations of the method 1600 may be implemented by the reference signal configurations in the broadcast messages according to aspects of the present disclosure. Figures 5 to 8 In some examples, the UE may execute a set of instructions to control the functional elements of the UE to perform the functions described herein. Additionally or alternatively, the UE may use dedicated hardware to perform aspects of the functions described herein.

[0262] At 1605, when the UE is operating in a first mode, the UE may receive a broadcast transmission from a base station including a reference signal configuration for communication between the base station and the UE, the reference signal configuration indicating one or more reference signal parameters, and the first mode is an idle mode or an inactive mode. The operations of 1605 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of 1605 may be performed by reference to Figures 5 to 8 The configuration manager described here is executed.

[0263] At 1610, when operating in the first mode, the UE may receive one or more reference signals from a base station according to a reference signal configuration. The operations of 1610 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of 1610 may be performed by reference to Figures 5 to 8 The described reference signal manager is implemented.

[0264] At 1615, the UE may determine one or more channel measurements based on one or more reference signals received from the base station. The operations of 1615 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of 1615 may be performed by reference to Figures 5 to 8 The described measurement manager is executed.

[0265] At 1620, the UE may receive a reference signal configuration or an update to a reference signal configuration in a physical downlink shared channel. The operations of 1620 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of 1620 may be performed by reference to Figures 5 to 8 The shared channel manager described is executed.

[0266] Figure 17 A flow chart is shown illustrating a method 1700 for supporting transmission of a reference signal configuration in a broadcast message for idle and inactive user equipment according to aspects of the present disclosure. The operations of the method 1700 may be implemented by the base station 105 or components thereof as described herein. For example, the operations of the method 1700 may be implemented by the base station 105 or components thereof as described herein. Figures 9 to 12 In some examples, the base station may execute a set of instructions to control functional elements of the base station to perform the functions described herein. Additionally or alternatively, the base station may use dedicated hardware to perform aspects of the functions described herein.

[0267] At 1705, the base station may generate a reference signal configuration for communication between the base station and a UE operating in a first mode, the reference signal configuration indicating one or more reference signal parameters, and the first mode being an idle mode or an inactive mode. The operations of 1705 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of 1705 may be performed by reference to Figures 9 to 12 The described settings manager is implemented.

[0268] At 1710, the base station may send a broadcast transmission including a reference signal configuration to the UE. The operations of 1710 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of 1710 may be performed by reference to Figures 9 to 12 The described broadcast manager is executed.

[0269] At 1715, when the UE is operating in the first mode, the base station may send one or more reference signals to the UE according to the reference signal configuration. The operations of 1715 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of 1715 may be performed by reference to Figures 9 to 12 The signal manager is executed.

[0270] At 1720, the base station may receive one or more channel measurements from the UE based on one or more reference signals sent to the UE. The operations of 1720 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of 1720 may be performed by reference to Figures 9 to 12 The channel manager described is executed.

[0271] Figure 18 A flow chart is shown illustrating a method 1800 for supporting transmission of a reference signal configuration in a broadcast message for idle and inactive user equipment according to aspects of the present disclosure. The operations of the method 1800 may be implemented by the base station 105 or components thereof as described herein. For example, the operations of the method 1800 may be implemented by the base station 105 or components thereof as described herein. Figures 9 to 12 In some examples, the base station may execute a set of instructions to control functional elements of the base station to perform the functions described herein. Additionally or alternatively, the base station may use dedicated hardware to perform aspects of the functions described herein.

[0272] At 1805, a base station may generate a reference signal configuration for communication between the base station and a UE operating in a first mode, the reference signal configuration indicating one or more reference signal parameters, and the first mode being an idle mode or an inactive mode. The operations of 1805 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of 1805 may be performed by reference to Figures 9 to 12 The described settings manager is implemented.

[0273] At 1810, the base station may send a broadcast transmission including a reference signal configuration to the UE. The operations of 1810 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of 1810 may be performed by reference to Figures 9 to 12 The described broadcast manager is executed.

[0274] At 1815, when the UE is operating in the first mode, the base station may send one or more reference signals to the UE according to the reference signal configuration. The operations of 1815 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of 1815 may be performed by reference to Figures 9 to 12 The signal manager described is executed.

[0275] At 1820, the base station may receive one or more channel measurements from the UE based on one or more reference signals sent to the UE. The operations of 1820 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of 1820 may be performed by reference to Figures 9 to 12 The channel manager described is executed.

[0276] At 1825, the base station may send a reference signal configuration in one or more system information blocks. The operations of 1825 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of 1825 may be performed by reference to Figures 9 to 12 The system manager described is executed.

[0277] Figure 19 A flow chart is shown illustrating a method 1900 for supporting transmission of a reference signal configuration in a broadcast message for idle and inactive user equipment according to aspects of the present disclosure. The operations of the method 1900 may be implemented by the base station 105 or components thereof as described herein. For example, the operations of the method 1900 may be implemented by reference to Figures 9 to 12 In some examples, the base station may execute a set of instructions to control functional elements of the base station to perform the functions described herein. Additionally or alternatively, the base station may use dedicated hardware to perform aspects of the functions described herein.

[0278] At 1905, the base station may generate a reference signal configuration for communication between the base station and a UE operating in a first mode, the reference signal configuration indicating one or more reference signal parameters, and the first mode being an idle mode or an inactive mode. The operations of 1905 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of 1905 may be performed by reference to Figures 9 to 12 The described settings manager is implemented.

[0279] At 1910, a base station may send a broadcast transmission including a reference signal configuration to a UE. The operations of 1910 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of 1910 may be performed by reference to Figures 9 to 12 The described broadcast manager is executed.

[0280] At 1915, when the UE is operating in the first mode, the base station may send one or more reference signals to the UE according to the reference signal configuration. The operations of 1915 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of 1915 may be performed by reference to Figures 9 to 12 The signal manager described is executed.

[0281] At 1920, the base station may receive one or more channel measurements from the UE based on one or more reference signals sent to the UE. The operations of 1920 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of 1920 may be performed by reference to Figures 9 to 12 The channel manager described is executed.

[0282] At 1925, the base station may send a reference signal configuration or an update to the reference signal configuration in a physical downlink control channel, wherein the update is indicated by one or more bits of the paging downlink control information. The operations of 1925 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of 1925 may be performed by reference to Figures 9 to 12 The control manager described is executed.

[0283] Figure 20 A flow chart is shown illustrating a method 2000 for supporting transmission of a reference signal configuration in a broadcast message for idle and inactive user equipment according to aspects of the present disclosure. The operations of the method 2000 may be implemented by the base station 105 or components thereof as described herein. For example, the operations of the method 2000 may be implemented by reference to Figures 9 to 12 In some examples, the base station may execute a set of instructions to control functional elements of the base station to perform the functions described herein. Additionally or alternatively, the base station may use dedicated hardware to perform aspects of the functions described herein.

[0284] At 2005, a base station may generate a reference signal configuration for communication between the base station and a UE operating in a first mode, the reference signal configuration indicating one or more reference signal parameters, and the first mode being an idle mode or an inactive mode. The operations of 2005 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of 2005 may be performed by reference to Figures 9 to 12The described settings manager is implemented.

[0285] At 2010, the base station may send a broadcast transmission including a reference signal configuration to the UE. The operations of 2010 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of 2010 may be performed by reference to Figures 9 to 12 The described broadcast manager is executed.

[0286] At 2015, when the UE is operating in the first mode, the base station may send one or more reference signals to the UE according to the reference signal configuration. The operations of 2015 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of 2015 may be performed by reference to Figures 9 to 12 The signal manager described is executed.

[0287] At 2020, the base station may receive one or more channel measurements from the UE based on one or more reference signals sent to the UE. The operations of 2020 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of 2020 may be performed by reference to Figures 9 to 12 The channel manager described is executed.

[0288] At 2025, the base station may send a reference signal configuration or an update to the reference signal configuration in a physical downlink shared channel. The operations of 2025 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of 2025 may be performed by reference to Figures 9 to 12 The data manager described is executed.

[0289] It should be noted that the methods described herein describe possible implementations, and that the operations and steps may be rearranged or otherwise modified, and that other implementations are possible. Furthermore, aspects of two or more of the methods may be combined.

[0290] Although aspects of LTE, LTE-A, LTE-APro, or NR systems may be described for example purposes, and LTE, LTE-A, LTE-APro, or NR terminology may be used throughout much of the description, the techniques described herein may be applicable beyond LTE, LTE-A, LTE-APro, or NR networks. For example, the techniques described may be applicable to various other wireless communication systems, such as Ultra Mobile Broadband (UMB), Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.11 (Wi-Fi), IEEE 802.16 (WiMAX), IEEE 802.20, Flash-OFDM, and other systems and radio technologies not explicitly mentioned herein.

[0291] The information and signals described herein may be represented using any of a variety of different technologies and techniques. For example, data, instructions, commands, information, signals, bits, symbols, and chips referred to throughout the description may be represented using voltages, currents, electromagnetic waves, magnetic fields or particles, light fields or particles, or any combination thereof.

[0292] The various illustrative blocks and components described in conjunction with the disclosure herein may be implemented or executed using a general purpose processor, a DSP, an ASIC, a CPU, an FPGA or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein. A general purpose processor may be a microprocessor, but in the alternative, the processor may be any processor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. A processor may also be implemented as a combination of computing devices (e.g., a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, a plurality of microprocessors, a combination of one or more microprocessors and a DSP core, or any other such configuration).

[0293] The functions described herein may be implemented in hardware, software executed by a processor, firmware, or any combination thereof. If implemented in software executed by a processor, the functions may be stored on or transmitted via a computer-readable medium as one or more instructions or codes. Other examples and implementations are within the scope of this disclosure and the appended claims. For example, due to the nature of software, the functions described herein may be implemented using software executed by a processor, hardware, firmware, hardwiring, or a combination of any of these. Features that implement the functions may also be physically located at various locations, including being distributed so that parts of the functions are implemented at different physical locations.

[0294] Computer-readable media include non-temporary computer storage media and communication media, and communication media include any media that helps to transfer a computer program from one place to another. Non-temporary storage media can be any available media that can be accessed by a general or special-purpose computer. By way of example, but not limitation, non-temporary computer-readable media can include RAM, ROM, electrically erasable programmable ROM (EEPROM), flash memory, compact disc (CD) ROM or other optical disc storage, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage device, or any other non-temporary media that can be used to carry or store the required program code units in the form of instructions or data structures, and any other non-temporary media that can be accessed by a general or special-purpose computer or a general or special-purpose processor. Moreover, any connection is appropriately referred to as a computer-readable medium. For example, if a coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, twisted pair, digital subscriber line (DSL) or wireless technologies such as infrared, radio and microwaves are used to send software from a website, server or other remote source, then the coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, twisted pair, DSL or wireless technologies such as infrared, radio and microwaves are all included in the definition of computer-readable media. Disk and disc, as used herein, include CDs, laser discs, optical discs, digital versatile discs (DVDs), floppy disks, and Blu-ray discs, where disks usually reproduce data magnetically, while discs reproduce data optically with lasers. Combinations of the above are also included within the scope of computer-readable media.

[0295] As used herein (including in the claims), "or" as used in a list of items (e.g., a list of items ending with a phrase such as "at least one of" or "one or more of") indicates an inclusive list, so that, for example, a list of at least one of A, B, or C means A or B or C or AB or AC or BC or ABC (i.e., A and B and C). Furthermore, as used herein, the phrase "based on" should not be interpreted as a reference to a closed set of conditions. For example, an example step described as "based on condition A" could be based on both condition A and condition B without departing from the scope of this disclosure. In other words, as used herein, the phrase "based on" should be interpreted in the same manner as the phrase "based at least in part on."

[0296] In the accompanying drawings, similar components or features may have the same reference number. In addition, components of the same type may be distinguished by following the reference number with a dash and a second reference number that distinguishes the similar components. If only the first reference number is used in the specification, the description applies to any of the similar components having the same first reference number, regardless of the second reference number or other subsequent reference numbers.

[0297] The description set forth herein in conjunction with the accompanying drawings describes example configurations and does not represent all examples that may be implemented or within the scope of the claims. The term "example" as used herein means "serving as an example, instance, or illustration," rather than "preferred" or "having advantages over other examples." The detailed description includes specific details for the purpose of providing an understanding of the described techniques. However, these techniques can be practiced without these specific details. In some instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form to avoid obscuring the concepts of the described examples.

[0298] The description herein is provided to enable one of ordinary skill in the art to make or use the present disclosure. Various modifications to the present disclosure will be readily apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to other variations without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the present disclosure is not limited to the examples and designs described herein, but should be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A method for wireless communication at a user equipment (UE), comprising: receiving, from a base station, a broadcast transmission including a reference signal configuration for communication between the base station and the UE when the UE is operating in a first mode, the reference signal configuration indicating one or more reference signal parameters, and the first mode is an idle mode or an inactive mode; when operating in the first mode, receiving one or more reference signals from the base station according to the reference signal configuration; as well as One or more channel measurements are determined based at least in part on the one or more reference signals received from the base station.

2. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: An indication of availability of the reference signal or an indication of an update of the reference signal configuration is received in a physical downlink control channel, wherein the availability or the update is indicated by one or more bits of paging downlink control information.

3. The method according to claim 2, further comprising: Determining that the one or more bits of the paging downlink control information indicates that the reference signal is available for the UE or that there is an update to the reference signal configuration.

4. The method according to claim 2, wherein: The set of unused bits of the paging downlink control information, the set of reserved bits of the paging downlink control information, or both include the one or more bits of the paging downlink control information.

5. The method according to claim 2, wherein: The paging downlink control information is associated with physical downlink shared channel scheduling information.

6. The method according to claim 2, wherein: The one or more bits of the paging downlink control information include one indication per reference signal resource of the reference signal configuration.

7. The method according to claim 2, wherein: The one or more bits of the paging downlink control information include one indication per reference signal resource group of the reference signal configuration.

8. The method according to claim 2, wherein: The one or more bits of the paging downlink control information include one indication per reference signal resource set of the reference signal configuration.

9. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: An indication of availability of the reference signal or an indication of an update of the reference signal configuration is received in a paging indicator of a physical downlink control channel.

10. The method according to claim 9, wherein: The physical downlink control channel carries information for a group of at least one UE associated with a paging occasion.

11. The method according to claim 10, further comprising: A dynamic indication field of the physical downlink control channel is identified, wherein the dynamic indication field indicates that a group of UEs in the group of at least one UE is to be paged in a next paging occasion, the group of UEs including the UE.

12. The method according to claim 10, further comprising: Identifying a content field of the physical downlink control channel, wherein a first bit of the content field indicates whether the UE is paged in a next paging occasion, and remaining bits of the content field include the indication of the availability of the reference signal or the indication of the update of the reference signal configuration.

13. A method for wireless communication at a base station, comprising: generating a reference signal configuration for communication between the base station and a user equipment (UE) operating in a first mode, the reference signal configuration indicating one or more reference signal parameters, and the first mode being an idle mode or an inactive mode; sending a broadcast transmission including the reference signal configuration to the UE; When the UE is operating in the first mode, sending one or more reference signals to the UE according to the reference signal configuration; as well as One or more channel measurements are received from the UE based at least in part on the one or more reference signals sent to the UE.

14. The method according to claim 13, further comprising: An indication of availability of the reference signal or an indication of an update of the reference signal configuration is sent in a physical downlink control channel, wherein the availability or the update is indicated by one or more bits of paging downlink control information.

15. The method according to claim 14, further comprising: Indicating in the one or more bits of the paging downlink control information that the reference signal is available for the UE or that there is an update to the reference signal configuration.

16. The method according to claim 14, wherein The set of unused bits of the paging downlink control information, the set of reserved bits of the paging downlink control information, or both include the one or more bits of the paging downlink control information.

17. The method according to claim 14, wherein: The paging downlink control information is associated with physical downlink shared channel scheduling information.

18. The method according to claim 14, further comprising: The one or more bits of the paging downlink control information are configured to include one indication per reference signal resource of the reference signal configuration.

19. The method according to claim 14, further comprising: The one or more bits of the paging downlink control information are configured to include one indication per reference signal resource group of the reference signal configuration.

20. The method of claim 14, further comprising: The one or more bits of the paging downlink control information are configured to include one indication per reference signal resource set of the reference signal configuration.

21. The method of claim 13, further comprising: An indication of the availability of the reference signal or an indication of an update of the reference signal configuration is sent in a paging indicator of a physical downlink control channel.

22. The method according to claim 21, wherein The physical downlink control channel carries information for a group of at least one UE associated with a paging occasion.

23. The method according to claim 22, further comprising: A dynamic indication field of the physical downlink control channel is identified, wherein the dynamic indication field indicates that a group of UEs in the group of at least one UE is to be paged in a next paging occasion, the group of UEs including the UE.

24. The method of claim 22, further comprising: A first bit of a content field of the physical downlink control channel is configured to indicate whether the UE is paged in a next paging occasion, and remaining bits of the content field are configured to include an indication of the availability of the reference signal or an indication of the update of the reference signal configuration.

25. An apparatus for wireless communication at a user equipment (UE), comprising: processor, a memory coupled to the processor; as well as Instructions stored in the memory and executable by the processor to cause the apparatus to: receiving, from a base station, a broadcast transmission including a reference signal configuration for communication between the base station and the UE when the UE is operating in a first mode, the reference signal configuration indicating one or more reference signal parameters, and the first mode is an idle mode or an inactive mode; when operating in the first mode, receiving one or more reference signals from the base station according to the reference signal configuration; as well as One or more channel measurements are determined based at least in part on the one or more reference signals received from the base station.

26. The device according to claim 25, wherein The instructions are also executable by the processor to cause the apparatus to: An indication of availability of the reference signal or an indication of an update of the reference signal configuration is received in a physical downlink control channel, wherein the availability or the update is indicated by one or more bits of paging downlink control information.

27. The device according to claim 26, wherein The instructions are also executable by the processor to cause the apparatus to: Determining that the one or more bits of the paging downlink control information indicates that the reference signal is available for the UE or that there is an update to the reference signal configuration.

28. The apparatus according to claim 26, wherein The set of unused bits of the paging downlink control information, the set of reserved bits of the paging downlink control information, or both include the one or more bits of the paging downlink control information.

29. The apparatus according to claim 26, wherein The paging downlink control information is associated with physical downlink shared channel scheduling information.

30. The apparatus of claim 26, wherein: The one or more bits of the paging downlink control information include one indication per reference signal resource of the reference signal configuration.

31. The apparatus according to claim 26, wherein The one or more bits of the paging downlink control information include one indication per reference signal resource group of the reference signal configuration.

32. The apparatus of claim 26, wherein: The one or more bits of the paging downlink control information include one indication per reference signal resource set of the reference signal configuration.

33. The apparatus of claim 25, wherein: The instructions are also executable by the processor to cause the apparatus to: An indication of availability of the reference signal or an indication of an update of the reference signal configuration is received in a paging indicator of a physical downlink control channel.

34. An apparatus for wireless communication at a base station, comprising: processor, a memory coupled to the processor; as well as Instructions stored in the memory and executable by the processor to cause the apparatus to: generating a reference signal configuration for communication between the base station and a user equipment (UE) operating in a first mode, the reference signal configuration indicating one or more reference signal parameters, and the first mode being an idle mode or an inactive mode; sending a broadcast transmission including the reference signal configuration to the UE; When the UE is operating in the first mode, sending one or more reference signals to the UE according to the reference signal configuration; as well as One or more channel measurements are received from the UE based at least in part on the one or more reference signals sent to the UE.

35. An apparatus for wireless communication at a user equipment (UE), comprising: means for receiving, from a base station, a broadcast transmission including a reference signal configuration for communication between the base station and the UE while the UE is operating in a first mode, the reference signal configuration indicating one or more reference signal parameters, and the first mode being an idle mode or an inactive mode; means for receiving one or more reference signals from the base station according to the reference signal configuration when operating in the first mode; as well as Means for determining one or more channel measurements based at least in part on the one or more reference signals received from the base station.

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