Communication method and device

Abstract

The invention relates to the technical field of wireless, in particular to a communication method and device. The AP may indicate, to the non-AP STA through the trigger frame, a difference between the transmit power of the STF in the TB PPDU and the transmit power of the data field. Therefore, the non-AP STA can send the STF and the data field in the TB PPDU according to the difference, so that the sending power of the data field can be effectively improved, and the packet error rate of the data field is reduced. According to the application, an IEEE protocol, such as an IEEE 802.11 be / Wi-Fi 7 / EHT protocol, an IEEE 802.11 bn / UHR / Wi-Fi 8 protocol, or an IEEE 802.15 / UWB protocol, or an IEEE 802.11 bf / perception protocol, or an integrated millimeter wave IMMW protocol, or a star flash protocol and the like, can be supported.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of wireless technology, and more particularly to a communication method and apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] Wireless local area networks (WLANs) have evolved through several generations, including 802.11a / b / g, 802.11n, 802.11ac, 802.11ax, 802.11be, and 802.11bn. Among these, the 802.11n standard is known as high throughput (HT), the 802.11ac standard as very high throughput (VHT), the 802.11ax standard as high efficient (HE), and the 802.11be standard as extremely high throughput (EHT). These throughput rates can also be referred to as throughput.

[0003] Each generation of mainstream 802.11 standards is compatible with legacy sites. For example, the earliest mainstream Wi-Fi standard, 802.11a, started its frame structure with a preamble and included a legacy-short training field (L-STF) (or legacy-short training domain), a legacy-long training field (L-LTF), and a legacy-signal field (L-SIG). Later 802.11 standards, including the currently discussed 802.11bn standard, adopted a legacy-preamble frame structure for compatibility with legacy sites. Following the legacy-preamble are the newly defined signaling field, short training field, and long training field. The STF following the legacy-preamble can also be referred to as the non-legacy-STF (NL-STF) to distinguish it from the L-STF. The NL-STF can be used for automatic gain control (AGC) in subsequent data fields.

[0004] However, in the existing schemes, the transmission power of NL-STF is the same as that of the data field, resulting in a high packet error rate for the data field. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides a communication method and apparatus that can effectively improve the transmission power of the data field of the physical layer protocol data unit (PPDU) (or physical layer convergence process protocol data unit), thereby increasing the reception power of the data field, improving the signal-to-noise ratio, and reducing the packet error rate of the data field.

[0006] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a communication method, which can be applied to an access point (AP). The AP may include a wireless local area network (WLAN) device (including Wi-Fi devices, etc.), or a chip, functional module, or processing system disposed within the WLAN device. The method includes:

[0007] The AP generates a trigger frame and sends the trigger frame. The trigger frame includes a public information field or a special user information field. The public information field or the special user information field includes indication information, which is used to indicate the difference between the transmission power of the short training field (STF) in the trigger-based physical layer protocol data unit (TB PPDU) and the transmission power of the data field in the TB PPDU.

[0008] In PPDUs (including TB PPDUs and multi-user PPDUs (MU PPDUs), the power of the data field is adjusted with reference to the power of the STF in the PPDU. Typically, the powers of these two fields are the same. Therefore, when the receiver receives the NL-STF, it can accurately adjust the power of the data field based on the power of the NL-STF, thus accurately receiving the data field. However, under power spectral density limitations, the power of the STF and the power of the data field often cannot be the same, and the STF power may even be less than the data field power. This can lead to the receiver being unable to accurately adjust the power of the data field. For example, due to power spectral density limitations, the maximum transmission power of the data field may be greater than the maximum transmission power of the STF. If the data field and the STF are still transmitted with the same transmission power as the STF, the transmission power of the data field will be reduced, thus lowering the signal-to-noise ratio and resulting in a high packet error rate when the receiver receives the data field.

[0009] In this embodiment, the AP indicates the difference between the transmission power of the STF and the transmission power of the data field in the TB PPDU via a trigger frame. This allows non-AP stations (non-AP STAs) to use an appropriate transmission power to transmit the STF and data field based on this difference, effectively improving the transmission power of the data field. Consequently, the AP can accurately configure the reception power of the data field, effectively improving the reception power of the reception field and reducing the packet error rate.

[0010] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a communication method applicable to non-AP STAs. These non-AP STAs may include WLAN devices (including Wi-Fi devices, etc.), or chips, functional modules, or processing systems disposed within the WLAN devices. The method includes:

[0011] The non-AP STA receives a trigger frame from the AP, which includes a common information field or a special user information field. The common information field or special user information field includes indication information, which is used to indicate the difference between the transmission power of the STF in the TB PPDU and the transmission power of the data field. The non-AP STA transmits the STF and data fields in the TB PPDU according to the difference.

[0012] For an explanation of the second aspect, please refer to the first aspect; it will not be elaborated upon here.

[0013] In conjunction with the first or second aspect, in one possible implementation, the difference includes a ratio, the period of the STF is 1.6 microseconds (μs), and the ratio is any one of the following: 0.8, 0.81, 0.85, 0.87, 0.9.

[0014] In conjunction with the first or second aspect, in one possible implementation, the difference includes a ratio, the period of the STF is 0.8 microseconds (μs), and the ratio is any one of the following: 0.75, 0.79, 0.8, 0.81, 0.85, 0.87, 0.9.

[0015] In conjunction with the first or second aspect, in one possible implementation, the difference is determined based on the discrete bandwidth of the distributed resource unit (DRU) corresponding to the non-AP STA or the size of the DRU corresponding to the non-AP STA; or, the difference is determined based on the size of the regular resource unit (rRU) corresponding to the non-AP STA.

[0016] In this embodiment of the application, determining the difference in the manner described above can improve the accuracy of the difference, enabling non-APSTA to transmit data fields with higher transmission power and further reduce the packet error rate of data fields.

[0017] In conjunction with the first or second aspect, in one possible implementation, the indication information includes a differential value corresponding to the bandwidth of the trigger frame scheduling; or, the indication information includes N differential values, each of the N differential values ​​corresponding to a frequency slice of the trigger frame scheduling, where N is an integer greater than 1.

[0018] In this embodiment, the indication information in the trigger frame indicates a difference, enabling all non-AP STAs scheduled by the trigger frame to use this difference to transmit the STF and data fields in the TB PPDU, thereby effectively saving signaling overhead. Simultaneously, by indicating the difference, even if the transmission power of the STF is less than the transmission power of the data field, the AP can still use the receiving power of the STF to adjust the receiving power of the data field when receiving the TB PPDU, allowing for a higher receiving power for the data field and effectively reducing the packet error rate of the data field.

[0019] In this embodiment, the indication information in the trigger frame indicates N differential values, enabling each non-AP STA within each frequency segment scheduled by the trigger frame to transmit the STF and data fields in the TB PPDU using the differential values ​​corresponding to the frequency segment. This allows for precise indication of the differential values ​​within each frequency segment. Furthermore, by indicating the differential values, even if the transmission power of the STF is less than the transmission power of the data field, the AP can still adjust the reception power of the data field using the STF's reception power when receiving the TB PPDU. Using a higher reception power to receive the data field effectively reduces the packet error rate of the data field.

[0020] In one possible implementation, combining the first or second aspect, the frequency is divided into 80MHz or 160MHz segments.

[0021] Thirdly, embodiments of this application provide a communication method, which can be applied to a first site, the first site including a WLAN device (including a Wi-Fi device, etc.), or a chip, functional module, or processing system disposed in the WLAN device, etc. The method includes:

[0022] The first station generates a PPDU, which includes a signaling (SIG) field, a short training field (STF), and a data field. The SIG field includes indication information, which indicates the difference between the transmission power of the STF and the transmission power of the data field. The first station transmits the STF and the data field in the PPDU according to the difference.

[0023] As an example, the first site may include an access point (AP), and the second site may include a non-AP STA. As another example, the first site may include a non-AP STA, and the second site may include an AP. Of course, both the first and second sites can also be either APs or non-AP STAs.

[0024] Regarding the third or fourth aspect, PPDU can also be called MU PPDU, and the type of MU PPDU can include single user (SU) transmission or MU transmission.

[0025] In this embodiment, the first station indicates the difference between the transmission power of the STF and the transmission power of the data field in the PPDU it transmits, which enables the second station to use an appropriate reception power to receive the data field, effectively improving the reception power of the reception field and reducing the packet error rate.

[0026] Fourthly, embodiments of this application provide a communication method, which can be applied to a second site. The second site may include a WLAN device (including a Wi-Fi device, etc.), or a chip, functional module, or processing system disposed within the WLAN device. The method includes:

[0027] The second station receives a PPDU from the first station. The PPDU includes a signaling SIG field, a short training field (STF), and a data field. The SIG field includes indication information that indicates the difference between the transmit power of the STF and the transmit power of the data field. The data field is received based on the difference and the receive power of the STF.

[0028] In conjunction with the third or fourth aspect, in one possible implementation, the difference includes a ratio, the period of the STF is 1.6 microseconds (μs), and the ratio is any one of the following: 0.8, 0.81, 0.85, 0.87, 0.9.

[0029] In conjunction with the third or fourth aspect, in one possible implementation, the difference includes a ratio, the period of the STF is 0.8 microseconds (μs), and the ratio is any one of the following: 0.75, 0.79, 0.8, 0.81, 0.85, 0.87, 0.9.

[0030] In conjunction with the third or fourth aspect, in one possible implementation, the difference is determined based on the discrete resource unit (DRU) or the size of the DRU corresponding to the first site; or, the difference is determined based on the size of the conventional resource unit (rRU) corresponding to the first site.

[0031] In conjunction with the third or fourth aspect, in one possible implementation, the indication information includes a differential value corresponding to the bandwidth of the trigger frame scheduling; or, the indication information includes N differential values, each of the N differential values ​​corresponding to a frequency slice of the trigger frame scheduling, where N is an integer greater than 1.

[0032] In conjunction with the third or fourth aspect, in one possible implementation, the frequency slice is 80MHz or 160MHz.

[0033] For the beneficial effects of the third or fourth aspect, please refer to the first and second aspects, which will not be elaborated here.

[0034] Fifthly, embodiments of this application provide a communication device for executing the methods in any one of the first to fourth aspects or any possible implementations thereof. The first communication device includes a module having the capability to execute the methods in any one of the first to fourth aspects or any possible implementations thereof.

[0035] Sixthly, embodiments of this application provide a communication device including a processor for executing the methods shown in any one of the first to fourth aspects or any possible implementation thereof. The processor executes a program stored in a memory, and when the program is executed, the methods shown in any one of the first to fourth aspects or any possible implementation thereof are executed.

[0036] In one possible implementation, the memory is located outside the aforementioned communication device.

[0037] In one possible implementation, the memory is located within the aforementioned communication device.

[0038] In this embodiment, the processor and memory can also be integrated into a single device, that is, the processor and memory can be integrated together. For example, the communication device can be a chip.

[0039] In one possible implementation, the communication device further includes a transceiver for receiving or sending information.

[0040] In a seventh aspect, embodiments of this application provide a communication device including a logic circuit and an interface, wherein the logic circuit and the interface are coupled; the interface is used for inputting and / or outputting information, and the logic circuit is used for performing the method described in any one of the first to fourth aspects or any possible implementation thereof.

[0041] Eighthly, embodiments of this application provide a computer-readable storage medium for storing a computer program that, when run on a computer, causes the methods shown in any of the first to fourth aspects or any possible implementation thereof to be executed.

[0042] Ninthly, embodiments of this application provide a computer program product that, when run on a computer, causes the methods shown in any of the first to fourth aspects or any possible implementations above to be executed.

[0043] In a tenth aspect, embodiments of this application provide a communication system including an AP and a non-AP STA. The AP is used to perform the method shown in the first aspect or any possible implementation thereof, and the non-AP STA is used to perform the method shown in the second aspect or any possible implementation thereof.

[0044] Eleventhly, embodiments of this application provide a communication system, which includes a first station and a second station. The first station is used to perform the method shown in the third aspect or any possible implementation of the third aspect, and the second station is used to perform the method shown in the fourth aspect or any possible implementation of the fourth aspect. Attached Figure Description

[0045] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the architecture of the communication system provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0046] Figure 2a This is a schematic diagram of the 20MHz subcarrier distribution and RU distribution provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0047] Figure 2b This is a schematic diagram of the 40MHz subcarrier distribution and RU distribution provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0048] Figure 2c This is a schematic diagram of the 80MHz subcarrier distribution and RU distribution provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0049] Figure 3a This is a schematic diagram of the uplink multi-user transmission process provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0050] Figure 3b and Figure 3c This is a schematic diagram of the frame format of the user information field provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0051] Figure 4a This is a schematic diagram of the format of an extremely high throughput PPDU (VHT PPDU) provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0052] Figure 4b This is a schematic diagram illustrating the construction of the Extremely High Throughput-STF (EHT-STF) provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0053] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0054] Figure 6 This is another flowchart illustrating the communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0055] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0056] Figure 8 This is another schematic diagram of the communication device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0057] Figure 9 This is another structural schematic diagram of the communication device provided in the embodiments of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0058] To facilitate understanding of the technical solution of this application, the application will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0059] The terms "first" and "second," etc., used in the specification, claims, and drawings of this application are used only to distinguish different objects and not to describe a specific order. Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, system, product, or apparatus that includes a series of steps or units is not limited to the listed steps or units, but may optionally include steps or units not listed, or may optionally include other steps or units inherent to these processes, methods, products, or apparatuses.

[0060] The term "embodiment" as used herein means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment of this application. The appearance of this phrase in various places throughout the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it a separate or alternative embodiment mutually exclusive with other embodiments. It will be explicitly and implicitly understood by those skilled in the art that the embodiments described herein can be combined with other embodiments.

[0061] In this application, "at least one (item)" refers to one or more, "more than one" refers to two or more, "at least two (items)" refers to two or three or more, and "and / or" is used to describe the relationship between related objects, indicating that there can be three relationships. For example, "A and / or B" can mean: only A exists, only B exists, and both A and B exist simultaneously, where A and B can be singular or plural. "Or" indicates that there can be two relationships, such as only A exists or only B exists; when A and B are not mutually exclusive, it can also mean that there are three relationships, such as only A exists, only B exists, or both A and B exist simultaneously. The character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects are in an "or" relationship. "At least one (item) of the following" or similar expressions refer to any combination of these items. For example, at least one (item) of a, b, or c can mean: a, b, c, "a and b", "a and c", "b and c", or "a and b and c".

[0062] In this application, "send" and "receive" indicate the direction of signal transmission. For example, "send information to XX" can be understood as the destination of the information being XX, which can include direct transmission via the air interface or indirect transmission via the air interface from other units or modules. "Receive information from YY" can be understood as the source of the information being YY, which can include direct reception from YY via the air interface or indirect reception from YY via the air interface from other units or modules. "Send" can also be understood as the "output" of a chip interface, and "receive" can also be understood as the "input" of a chip interface. In other words, sending and receiving can occur between devices, such as between network devices and terminal devices, or within a device, such as between components, modules, chips, software modules, or hardware modules within the device via buses, traces, or interfaces.

[0063] This application provides a communication method and apparatus. The method can explicitly indicate to the transmitting station the difference between the transmission power of the STF and the transmission power of the data field, thereby facilitating power adjustment by the receiver. For example, the receiver can adjust according to the above difference, so that the receiver can receive the data field with more accurate power, so that the data field can obtain higher reception power as much as possible, improve the signal-to-noise ratio, and reduce the packet error rate of the data field.

[0064] The following describes the system involved in the embodiments of this application.

[0065] The technical solutions provided in this application can be applied to WLAN systems, such as Wi-Fi. For example, the technical solutions provided in this application can be applied to the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.11 series protocols (or standards), such as the 802.11be protocol, the 802.11bn protocol (or Wi-Fi 8, also known as Ultra High Reliability (UHR) or Ultra High Reliability and Throughput (UHRT)), or next-generation protocols of the 802.11bn protocol, or protocols supporting ambient power (AMP), etc., and will not be listed exhaustively. The technical solutions provided in this application can also be applied to wireless personal area networks (WPANs) based on millimeter wave (MMW) technologies, such as integrated millimeter wave (IMMW) and ultra-wideband (UWB) technologies. The technical solutions provided in the embodiments of this application can be applied to the IEEE 802.15 series protocols, such as the 802.15.4a, 802.15.4z, or 802.15.4ab protocols, or future UWB WPAN protocols, etc., and will not be listed one by one. The technical solutions provided in the embodiments of this application can also be applied to the Spark Link or NearLink standard protocol. The technical solutions provided in the embodiments of this application can also be applied to the following communication systems, such as Internet of Things (IoT) systems, vehicle-to-everything (V2X, where X can represent anything), device-to-device (D2D), narrowband Internet of Things (NB-IoT) systems, long term evolution (LTE) systems, 5th generation (5G) communication systems, and new communication systems that will emerge in the future development of communication, etc.For example, V2X can include vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V), vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I), vehicle-to-pedestrian (V2P), or vehicle-to-network (V2N) communication.

[0066] WLAN systems can provide high-speed, low-latency transmission. As WLAN application scenarios continue to evolve, WLAN systems will be applied to more scenarios or industries, such as the Internet of Things industry, the Internet of Vehicles industry, the banking industry, enterprise offices, stadiums and exhibition halls, concert halls, hotel rooms, dormitories, hospital wards, classrooms, shopping malls, squares, streets, production workshops and warehouses, etc. Of course, devices that support WLAN communication or sensing (such as access points or sites) can be sensor nodes in smart cities (such as smart water meters, smart electricity meters, and smart air monitoring nodes), smart devices in smart homes (such as smart cameras, projectors, displays, televisions, speakers, refrigerators, and washing machines), nodes in the Internet of Things (IoT), entertainment terminals (such as wearable devices for augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR), smart devices in smart offices (such as printers, projectors, loudspeakers, and speakers), vehicle-to-everything (V2X) devices, infrastructure in daily life scenarios (such as vending machines, self-service navigation kiosks in supermarkets, self-service checkout machines, and self-service ordering machines), and equipment in large sports and music venues.

[0067] Although the embodiments of this application primarily use WLAN as an example, especially networks applied to the IEEE 802.11 series of standards, the various aspects involved in the embodiments of this application can be extended to other networks employing various standards or protocols. For example, Bluetooth, high-performance radio LAN (HIPERLAN) (a wireless standard similar to the IEEE 802.11 standard), and wide area networks (WANs) or other networks now known or to be developed in the future.

[0068] In one possible implementation, the method provided in this application embodiment can be implemented by a communication device in a communication system. For example, the communication device can be an access point (AP) or a station (STA).

[0069] An Access Point (AP) is a device with wireless communication capabilities that supports communication, sensing, or power transmission using WLAN protocols. It has the function of communicating or sensing with other devices in a WLAN network (such as non-access point stations (non-APSTAs) or other access points), and can also communicate, sense, or transmit power with other devices. Alternatively, an access point acts as a bridge connecting wired and wireless networks, primarily connecting various wireless network clients together and then connecting the wireless network to an Ethernet network. In a WLAN system, an access point can be called an Access Point Station (AP STA). This wireless communication device can be a complete device or a chip, processing system, or functional module installed within a complete device. Devices with these chips, processing systems, or functional modules can implement the methods and functions of the embodiments in this application under the control of the chips, processing systems, or functional modules. The AP in the embodiments of this application is a device that provides services to non-AP STAs and can support 802.11 series protocols or subsequent protocols. For example, an access point can be an access point for a terminal (such as a mobile phone) to enter a wired (or wireless) network, mainly deployed in homes, buildings, and parks, with a typical coverage radius of tens to hundreds of meters. Of course, it can also be deployed outdoors. Another example is that an AP can be a communication entity such as a communication server, router, switch, or bridge; APs can include various forms of macro base stations, micro base stations, and repeater stations. Of course, an AP can also be a chip, processing system, or module within the above-mentioned devices, thereby implementing the methods and functions of the embodiments of this application.

[0070] A Station-Style (STA) is a device with wireless communication capabilities that supports communication, sensing, or power transmission using the WLAN protocol. It has the ability to communicate, sense, or transmit power with other non-AP STAs or access points in a WLAN network. In a WLAN system, a station can be called a non-access point station (non-AP STA). For example, an STA is any user communication device that allows a user to communicate with an AP (Access Point) or sense or transmit power, and thus communicate with the WLAN. This wireless communication device can be a complete device, or it can be a chip, processing system, or functional module installed in a complete device. Devices with these chips, processing systems, or functional modules can implement the methods and functions of the embodiments of this application under the control of the chips, processing systems, or functional modules. For example, an STA can be a wireless communication chip, a wireless sensor, or a wireless communication terminal, and can also be referred to as a user. Furthermore, an STA can be a mobile phone supporting Wi-Fi communication, a tablet computer supporting Wi-Fi communication, a set-top box supporting Wi-Fi communication, a smart TV supporting Wi-Fi communication, a smart wearable device supporting Wi-Fi communication, an in-vehicle communication device supporting Wi-Fi communication, and a computer supporting Wi-Fi communication. Of course, STA can also be a chip, processing system, or module in the various types of devices described above, thereby implementing the methods and functions of the embodiments of this application.

[0071] For example, the communication systems to which the methods provided in this application can be applied may include access points and stations. For instance, this application can be applied to scenarios of communication or sensing between APs and STAs, between APs, or between STAs in a WLAN, and this application does not limit this. Optionally, an AP can communicate or sense with a single STA, or an AP can communicate or sense with multiple STAs simultaneously. Specifically, communication or sensing between an AP and multiple STAs can be further divided into downlink transmission where the AP simultaneously sends signals to multiple STAs, and uplink transmission where multiple STAs send signals to the AP. The communication protocols between APs and STAs, between APs, and between STAs can support WLAN communication protocols, which may include IEEE 802.11 series protocols, such as the 802.11bn protocol, and of course, protocols after 802.11bn.

[0072] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the architecture of a communication system provided in an embodiment of this application. The communication system may include one or more APs and one or more STAs. Figure 1The diagram illustrates two access points, such as AP1 and AP2, and three stations, such as STA1 (or non-AP STA 1), STA2 (or non-AP STA 2), and STA3 (or non-AP STA 3). As an example, the method provided in this application embodiment can be applied to data communication, sensing, or power transmission between an AP and one or more STAs, such as... Figure 1 The communication or sensing between AP1 and STA1 shown, for example... Figure 1 The example illustrates communication or sensing between AP1 and STA1, STA2, etc. As another example, the method provided in this application embodiment can be applied to communication between APs, such as... Figure 1 The example illustrates communication or sensing between AP1 and AP2. As another example, the method provided in this application embodiment can be applied to communication or sensing between STAs, such as... Figure 1 The communication or sensing between STA2 and STA3 is shown.

[0073] Figure 1 The use of STA (station) as a mobile phone and AP (access point) as a router is merely an example and does not imply limitation on the types of AP and STA in the embodiments of this application. Furthermore, Figure 1 The number of APs and STAs shown are merely examples. In a specific implementation, the number of APs or STAs may be more or less, and this application does not limit this.

[0074] The following describes the terms used in the embodiments of this application.

[0075] 1. Subcarrier planning (toneplan) based on resource unit (RU)

[0076] Regarding bandwidth configuration, the following bandwidth configurations are currently supported: 20MHz, 40MHz, 80MHz, 160MHz, 80+80MHz, and 320MHz. The difference between 160MHz and 80+80MHz is that the former is a continuous frequency band, while the latter's two 80MHz bands can be separated. Generally, resource allocation can be performed in units of RUs (Units of Refs). RU-based subcarrier planning can be described as follows. Subcarrier planning can also be called subcarrier distribution.

[0077] As an example, when the bandwidth is 20MHz, the entire bandwidth (i.e., 20MHz) can consist of a single 242-tone RU, or various combinations of 26-tone RUs, 52-tone RUs, and 106-tone RUs. Each RU can include data subcarriers and pilot subcarriers. The data subcarriers can be used to carry data information, and the pilot subcarriers can be used for phase offset and / or frequency offset estimation, etc. In addition to RUs, the bandwidth can also include at least one of the following: one or more guard subcarriers, one or more null subcarriers, and one or more direct current (DC) subcarriers. The descriptions of RUs or subcarriers here also apply to other bandwidths shown below, and will not be repeated hereafter.

[0078] Figure 2a This is a schematic diagram of the 20MHz subcarrier distribution and RU distribution provided in an embodiment of this application. For example... Figure 2a As shown, 20MHz can include nine 26-tone RUs, or four 52-tone RUs, or two 106-tone RUs, or one 242-tone RU.

[0079] A 26-tone RU is an RU with 26 subcarriers, a 52-tone RU is an RU with 52 subcarriers, a 106-tone RU is an RU with 106 subcarriers, a 242-tone RU is an RU with 242 subcarriers, and so on.

[0080] As another example, when the bandwidth is 40MHz, the entire bandwidth (i.e., 40MHz) can consist of a single 484-tone RU, or various combinations of 26-tone RUs, 52-tone RUs, 106-tone RUs, and 242-tone RUs. The entire bandwidth is roughly equivalent to a replication of a 20MHz subcarrier plan.

[0081] Figure 2b This is a schematic diagram of the 40MHz subcarrier distribution and RU distribution provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 2b As shown, 40MHz can include 18 26-tone RUs, or 8 52-tone RUs, or 4 106-tone RUs, or 2 242-tone RUs, or 1 484-tone RU.

[0082] As another example, when the bandwidth is 80MHz, the entire bandwidth (i.e., 80MHz) can consist of a single 996-tone RU, or it can consist of various combinations of 26-tone RU, 52-tone RU, 106-tone RU, 242-tone RU, and 484-tone RU.

[0083] Figure 2c This is a schematic diagram of the 80MHz subcarrier distribution and RU distribution provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 2c As shown, 80MHz can include 36 26-tone RUs, or 16 52-tone RUs, or 8 106-tone RUs, or 4 242-tone RUs, or 2 484-tone RUs, or 1 996-tone RU. 484L and 484R represent the left and right halves of a 484-tone RU, respectively, each containing 242 subcarriers, and are another representation of 484+5DC. For example, if the subcarrier range of a 484-tone RU is [-500:-12], then "484L" is the low-frequency portion relative to the frequency center of the 484-tone RU, i.e., [-500:-259], and "484R" is the high-frequency portion relative to the frequency center of the 484-tone RU, i.e., [-253:-12]. Similarly, taking the subcarrier range of a 484-tone RU as an example ([12:500]), "484L" is [12:253], and "484R" is [259:500]. These will not be listed individually here.

[0084] In this application, [a:c] can refer to all integers from a to c (a and c are also integers), with a step size of 1. That is: a, (a+1), (a+2), (a+3), ..., c; this will not be elaborated further below. For example, [259:500] represents 259, 260, 261, 262, ..., 498, 499, 500. Another example is [-500:-259], which represents -500, -499, -498, -497, ..., -260, -259.

[0085] As another example, when the bandwidth is 160MHz, the entire bandwidth can be viewed as a replica of two 80MHz subcarrier distributions. For instance, the entire bandwidth can consist of a single 2*996-tone RU, or various combinations of 26-tone RUs, 52-tone RUs, 106-tone RUs, 242-tone RUs, 484-tone RUs, and 996-tone RUs. When the bandwidth is 320MHz, the entire bandwidth can be viewed as a replica of four 80MHz subcarrier distributions. These will not be listed further here.

[0086] In the various subcarrier plans mentioned above, the unit is 242-tone RU (i.e., 20MHz). Figures 2a-2c The leftmost frequency can be the lowest frequency. Figures 2a-2c The rightmost position can be the highest frequency. From left to right, the 242-tone RUs can be numbered: the first (1st), the second (2nd), and so on. nd ), ..., the sixteenth (16) th Taking a bandwidth of 320MHz as an example, the data field in a radio frame can occupy a maximum of 16 242-tone RUs. That is to say, in the data field, there can be a maximum of 16 242-tone RUs corresponding to 16 20MHz channels in ascending order of frequency.

[0087] In addition to the RUs mentioned above, the following RUs can also exist: a 52+26-tone RU consisting of a 52-tone RU and a 26-tone RU; a 106+26-tone RU consisting of a 106-tone RU and a 26-tone RU; a 996+484-tone RU consisting of a 996-tone RU and a 484-tone RU; a 2*996+484-tone RU consisting of two 996-tone RUs and a 484-tone RU; a 3*996-tone MRU consisting of three 996-tone RUs; and a 3*996+484-tone RU consisting of three 996-tone RUs and a 484-tone RU. The symbol “*” in this application represents “multiplied” or “multiplied by”.

[0088] In terms of bandwidth, when the subcarrier spacing is 78.125 kHz, a 26-tone RU corresponds to approximately 2 MHz (i.e., 26 * 78.125 kHz = 2031.25 kHz ≈ 2 MHz), a 52-tone RU corresponds to approximately 4 MHz, a 106-tone RU corresponds to approximately 8 MHz, and a 242-tone RU corresponds to approximately 20 MHz. The dimensions of other RUs can be deduced by addition or multiplication, which will not be elaborated upon in this application.

[0089] In this application, a continuous RU refers to an RU consisting of multiple consecutive subcarriers, or a continuous RU consisting of two groups of consecutive subcarriers, where each group of consecutive subcarriers includes multiple consecutive subcarriers, and the two groups of consecutive subcarriers are separated only by guard subcarriers, empty subcarriers, or DC subcarriers. Of course, a continuous RU can also have other names, such as a regular RU (rRU). "Continuous RU" and "regular RU" can be used interchangeably, and this application does not limit the name of the continuous RU.

[0090] The above Figures 2a-2c The RU shown can be called an rRU. This conventional RU has smaller bandwidth and lower transmission power compared to a distributed RU. The term "lower" here is relative to a distributed RU; for example, the transmission power of a distributed RU can be further increased compared to a conventional RU.

[0091] 2. Uplink multi-user transmission

[0092] Uplink multi-user transmission is an important technology. Its process can be triggered by the AP sending a trigger frame, which carries the site's identifier information and resource allocation information.

[0093] Figure 3a This is a schematic diagram of the uplink multi-user transmission process provided in an embodiment of this application. For example... Figure 3a As shown, the uplink multi-user transmission process may include: the AP sending a trigger frame to trigger uplink multi-user transmission, the trigger frame carrying identifier information and resource allocation information of one or more stations; after receiving the trigger frame, each station sends a trigger-based physical layer protocol data unit (TB PPDU) on the allocated resource unit, and receives a block acknowledge (BA) frame sent by the AP after a predetermined time (such as short inter-frame space (SIFS)).

[0094] In one possible implementation, the trigger frame may include, but is not limited to, a public information field and a user information list field. The public information field may contain public information that all STAs scheduled by the trigger frame need to read, and the user information list field of the trigger frame may include one or more user information fields, each containing information that a non-AP STA needs to read.

[0095] Figure 3b and Figure 3cThis is a schematic diagram of the frame format of the user information field provided in an embodiment of this application. For example... Figure 3b and Figure 3c As shown, the user information field includes, but is not limited to, the Resource Unit Allocation subfield and the Master-Slave 160 subfield. Figure 3b and Figure 3c This example uses the EHT variant userinfofield as the user information field. As the standard progresses, UHR variant userinfofields may also emerge. The specific format of the UHR variant userinfofield is not limited in this embodiment. For example, the format of the UHR variant userinfofield may be the same as that of the EHT variant userinfofield. Of course, this application is not limited to this.

[0096] Generally, the RU or MRU assigned by the STA can be indicated by the following subfields: Resource Unit Allocation subfield, Master-Slave 160 subfield, Uplink Bandwidth subfield in the Common Information field, and Uplink Bandwidth Extension subfield in the Special User Information field. In the Common Information field, B55 indicates whether a Special User Information field exists in the User Information List field. For example... Figure 3c As shown, when a special user information field exists in the B55 indication user information list field, this special user information field may include at least one of the following: association ID (AID), physical layer version identifier, uplink bandwidth extension, spatial reuse, U-SIG ignore, and confirmation. The value of the AID12 field can correspond to a special user information field, such as the value of AID12 being 2007. The physical layer version identifier field can be used to indicate the version of the PPDU carrying the special user information field, such as EHT PPDU, UHR PPDU, or IMMW PPDU. The uplink extended bandwidth field and the UL BW subfield can be used to indicate the uplink bandwidth. The spatial reuse field can be used to indicate spatial reuse parameters. For further explanation of special user information fields, please refer to the 802.11 standard; no further limitations are provided here.

[0097] Figure 3b and Figure 3c The trigger frame format shown is merely an example. As standards evolve, other trigger frame formats may emerge, and this application does not limit these formats. As a possible implementation, trigger frames in subsequent standards may also adopt formats such as... Figure 3b or Figure 3c The format of the trigger frame shown.

[0098] For an EHT TB PPDU, its bandwidth is jointly determined by the UL BW subfield and the UL BW extended subfield in the Special User Information field. The B0 bit in the RU allocation subfield, bits B7 to B1 in the RU allocation subfield, the PS160 subfield, and the mapping relationship between RU and MRU are shown in Table 1 below. The bandwidth is determined by both the UL BW subfield and the UL BW extended subfield. Table 1 illustrates the interpretation of the RU allocation subfield and PS160 subfield in the 802.11be trigger frame.

[0099] Table 1

[0100]

[0101]

[0102]

[0103]

[0104] In one possible implementation, N in Table 1 above can be obtained by the formula N = 2 * X1 + X0. The values ​​of X1 and X0 are shown in Table 2 below, which illustrates the lookup table for X1 and N. Table 2 describes the transformation from logical parameters PS160 and B0 to physical parameters X1 and X0. The configuration in Table 2 refers to the order of P80, S80, and S160 in absolute frequency, from left to right representing from low frequency to high frequency. Specifically, P80 represents the primary 80MHz channel, S80 represents the secondary 80MHz channel, and S160 represents the secondary 160MHz channel. For example, [P80 S80] indicates that the primary 80MHz channel is the first 80MHz channel from low to high frequency, and the secondary 80MHz channel is the second 80MHz channel from low to high frequency; or, [P80 S80] indicates that the primary 80MHz channel is the low 80MHz channel, and the secondary 80MHz channel is the high 80MHz channel. For example, [S80 P80 S160] indicates that the 80MHz channel is the lower 80MHz channel in the lower 160MHz channel, the main 80MHz channel is the higher 80MHz channel in the lower 160MHz channel, and the 160MHz channel is the higher 160MHz channel.

[0105] Table 2

[0106]

[0107]

[0108] Tables 1 and 2 are examples of continuous RUs. For DRUs, the contents shown in Tables 1 and 2 may also apply, or other tables may be used for DRUs. This application does not limit this.

[0109] 3. Distributed Resource Unit (DRU)

[0110] Recently, a communications commission issued regulations regarding the 6GHz spectrum, defining a low-power indoor (LPI) communication method with strict limits on maximum transmit power and maximum frequency spectral density. For example, for a station (STA), the maximum power is 24dBm, and the maximum power spectral density is -1dBm / MHz. The transmit power of a device is limited by both the maximum power and the maximum power spectral density; firstly, the transmit power cannot exceed the maximum power value, and secondly, the transmit power spectral density cannot exceed the maximum power spectral density. Compared to maximum power, the limitation on maximum power spectral density is more stringent, and the maximum transmit power is usually more constrained by the power spectral density. For a station, the maximum power limit stipulated by the regulations is only reached when the bandwidth is at its maximum of 320MHz. Below this bandwidth, due to the limitation on maximum power spectral density, only lower power can be transmitted. On June 30, 2021, Europe also issued regulations for the 6GHz spectrum, targeting LPI communication methods, such as a maximum power of 23dBm and a maximum power spectral density of 10dBm / MHz. When the bandwidth does not exceed 20MHz, the transmission power of the AP / STA is mainly limited by the power spectral density, while when the bandwidth is greater than 20MHz, the transmission power of the AP / STA is mainly limited by the maximum power.

[0111] Due to the limited power spectral density, distributing a finite number of subcarriers across a wider bandwidth (i.e., more subcarriers) can increase transmission power; this is known as a discrete RU (or distributed RU). It is commonly used in uplink multi-user transmissions (for example only), where multiple users interleave transmissions through discrete RUs to increase the transmission power of each user within a fixed bandwidth. It's important to note that the maximum power spectral density is limited in the form of a maximum transmission power of x mW per 1 MHz. Considering a carrier spacing of 78.125 kHz, 1 MHz contains 12.8 (approximately 13) subcarriers. Since the average power of each subcarrier is the same during a single transmission, observing any consecutive 13 subcarriers, the maximum number of subcarriers carrying the signal determines the average power of each subcarrier, and thus the transmission power of the signal. For example, with a 20 MHz bandwidth (242 subcarriers), a maximum of 5 subcarriers carrying the signal will be included in any consecutive 13 subcarriers; therefore, the average power of each subcarrier will be x(mW) / 5. Considering there are 26 subcarriers carrying the signal, the total transmission power will be (x(mw) / 5)*26.

[0112] The DRU in this application includes multiple subcarriers discrete in the frequency domain, or multiple subcarriers discrete indices (or index values), or multiple subcarriers with discontinuous indices. These discrete subcarriers can be partially discrete or completely discrete. For example, the discrete subcarriers may include some subcarriers that are frequency-continuous, and some subcarriers that are frequency-discontinuous. Alternatively, the discrete subcarriers may be completely frequency-discontinuous. The phrase "frequency-continuous" can also be interpreted as "the indices of the subcarriers are continuous," and "frequency-discontinuous" can also be interpreted as "the indices of the subcarriers are discontinuous." In this application, "distributed RU" and "DRU" or "discrete RU" can be used interchangeably. It should also be understood that the DRU mentioned in this application refers to an RU with discrete subcarriers in the frequency domain. That is, an RU with this characteristic is referred to as a distributed RU or discrete RU in this application, but in practice, an RU with this characteristic may have other names, which this application does not limit.

[0113] The design principle of DRUs is that, across all discrete bandwidths, the RU size, the number of RUs of each size, and the hierarchical relationship of RUs of each size are the same as those of rRUs. A subcarrier plan corresponding to a 20MHz discrete bandwidth can include nine 26-tone DRUs, four 52-tone DRUs, and two 106-tone DRUs, with power amplification gains of 8.13dB, 6.37dB, and 3.56dB, respectively. A subcarrier plan corresponding to a 40MHz discrete bandwidth can include eighteen 26-tone DRUs, eight 52-tone DRUs, four 106-tone DRUs, and two 242-tone DRUs, with power amplification gains of 11.14dB, 8.13dB, 6.37dB, and 2.69dB, respectively. The subcarrier planning corresponding to the 80M discrete bandwidth can include 16 52-tone DRUs, 8 106-tone DRUs, 4 242-tone DRUs, and 2 484-tone DRUs, with power amplification gains of 11.14dB, 8.13dB, 5.12dB, and 2.69dB, respectively.

[0114] 4. Hybrid PPDU

[0115] For users receiving the same trigger frame, PPDUs can be sent via DRU or rRU. Generally speaking, PPDUs can be sent via either DRU or rRU on an 80M bandwidth. That is to say, within an 80M bandwidth, there should be no mixed transmission of DRU and rRU.

[0116] 5. EHT STF

[0117] Each generation of mainstream 802.11 standards is compatible with legacy sites. For example, the frame structure of the earliest generation of mainstream Wi-Fi standard, 802.11a, starts with the preamble and includes the legacy-short training field (L-STF) (or legacy short training field), the legacy-long training field (L-LTF), and the legacy-signal field (L-SIG).

[0118] To ensure compatibility with legacy sites, the frame structure can begin with a traditional preamble. Following the traditional preamble are the newly defined signaling fields, short training fields, and long training fields for each generation. The STF following the traditional preamble can also be referred to as the non-legacy-STF (NL-STF) to distinguish it from L-STF.

[0119] When the channel bandwidth is greater than 20MHz, L-STF is transmitted after being copied every 20MHz of channel bandwidth, while NL-STF requires defining a new sequence, which can be carried in the NL-STF. Different sequences can correspond to different channel bandwidths. For example, the STF defined in the 802.11ac standard, namely Very High Throughput-Short Training Field (VHT-STF), defines sequences for 20MHz, 40MHz, 80MHz, and 160MHz respectively.

[0120] Figure 4a This is a schematic diagram of the VHT PPDU format provided in an embodiment of this application. For example... Figure 4a As shown, the L-TF in this VHT PPDU is transmitted by replication over a channel bandwidth of 20MHz. Figure 4a The L-TF in VHT-STF can include L-STF and L-LTF. For different channel bandwidths, there are different sequences for VHT-STF.

[0121] Similarly, the 802.11ax standard defines the high efficiency-STF (HE-STF). The 802.11be standard defines the extremely high throughput-STF (EHT-STF), which supports a maximum bandwidth of 320MHz.

[0122] Generally, L-STF can be used for PPDU discovery, coarse synchronization, coarse frequency offset estimation, or for automatic gain control (AGC) of L-LTF or SIG fields (such as U-SIG, EHT-SIG, or UHR-SIG fields, etc., non-legacy-SIG, NL-SIG fields). NL-STF can be used to enhance AGC, such as for AGC of subsequent data fields.

[0123] The time-domain waveform of NL-STF can include P repetition periods, where P is an integer greater than 1. For example, P = 5.

[0124] The standard defines the frequency domain value EHTS for EHT-STF. a:b:c Where a:b:c represents the sequence from subcarrier a to subcarrier c, with a step size of b. That is, a:b:c can represent a, a+b, a+2b, a+3b, ..., c. On other subcarriers, the EHTS value is 0. During the transmission of the EHT-STF, the transmitter can perform an inverse Fourier transform on the above EHTS values ​​to obtain the time-domain waveform.

[0125] The 802.11be standard defines two EHT-STF lengths based on different frame structures, with periods of 0.8μs and 1.6μs respectively. The 802.11be standard supports five channel bandwidths: 20MHz, 40MHz, 80MHz, 160MHz, and 320MHz. Each bandwidth corresponds to one of the two EHT-STF lengths; therefore, the frequency domain value of the EHT-STF is EHTS. a:b:c There are 10 types in total.

[0126] The value of EHT-STF in the frequency domain can be constructed based on sequence M through multiplexing, phase rotation, or splicing.

[0127] Figure 4b This is a schematic diagram illustrating the construction of an EHT-STF provided in an embodiment of this application. For example, the sequence carried by a 20MHz EHT-STF can be determined based on a sequence M, such as... Figure 4b The {c1M} shown; the sequence carried by the 40MHz EHT-STF can be constructed by splicing together two 20MHz EHT-STFs (i.e., sequence M) multiplied by a rotation factor c, as shown. Figure 4b The {c2M, 0, c3M} shown; similarly, the sequence carried by an 80MHz EHT-STF can be constructed by splicing together four 20MHz EHT-STFs multiplied by a rotation factor, as shown below. Figure 4b The sequence {c4M, a1, c5M, 0, c6M, a2, c7M} is shown. Additionally, a value 'a' needs to be inserted between every two sequences M, such as... Figure 4b As shown in a1 and a2. In addition, OFDM modulation requires the signal on the DC subcarrier to be 0.

[0128] Optimizing a and c can minimize the peak-to-average power ratio (PAPR) of the EHT-STF. These optimized values ​​are defined in the 802.11be standard, as detailed below.

[0129] The following sections first introduce the frequency domain values ​​(or bearer sequences) of HE-STF, followed by the frequency domain values ​​of EHT-STF. Of course, the frequency domain values ​​of STFs under different channel bandwidths shown below also apply to UHR-STF or NL-STF in subsequent standards. For the frequency domain values ​​of UHR-STF, please refer to the frequency domain values ​​of EHT-STF or HE-STF; they will not be repeated below.

[0130] In the 802.11ax standard, the sequence M = {-1,-1,-1,1,1,1,-1,1,1,1,-1,1,1,-1,1,1}.

[0131] (1) For 20MHz, taking a subcarrier spacing of 78.125KHz as an example, there are a total of 256 subcarriers in 20MHz, and the index range of these 256 subcarriers is from -128 to 127. The following text uses a subcarrier spacing of 78.125KHz as an example, and will not be repeated below.

[0132] (1a) For a HE-STF of 0.8 μs, its value in the frequency domain is Where HES0 = 0.

[0133] For a 0.8μs HE-STF, there are 14 non-zero values ​​in the frequency domain. That is, for a 0.8μs HE-STF, there are a total of 14 subcarriers that can carry non-zero values.

[0134] In this embodiment, the values ​​on other subcarriers not shown are all 0. Similarly, the values ​​on subcarriers not shown in (1b) to (4b) below are all 0, and will not be repeated here.

[0135] (1b) For a 1.6 μs HE-STF, its value in the frequency domain is

[0136] For a 1.6μs HE-STF, there are 30 non-zero values ​​in the frequency domain. That is, for a 1.6μs HE-STF, there are a total of 30 subcarriers that can carry non-zero values.

[0137] (2) For 40MHz, there are a total of 512 subcarriers, and the index range of these 512 subcarriers is from -256 to 255.

[0138] (2a) For a HE-STF of 0.8 μs, its value in the frequency domain is

[0139] As can be seen from the above values, the HE-STF has 30 non-zero values ​​in the frequency domain, meaning that a total of 30 subcarriers can carry non-zero values.

[0140] (2b) For a 1.6 μs HE-STF, its value in the frequency domain is Among them, HES ±248 =0.

[0141] As can be seen from the above values, the HE-STF has 60 non-zero values ​​in the frequency domain, meaning that a total of 60 subcarriers can carry non-zero values.

[0142] (3) For 80MHz, there can be a total of 1024 subcarriers, and the index range of these 1024 subcarriers is -512 to 511.

[0143] (3a) For a HE-STF of 0.8 μs, its value in the frequency domain is

[0144] As can be seen from the above values, the HE-STF has 62 non-zero values ​​in the frequency domain, meaning that a total of 62 subcarriers can carry non-zero values.

[0145] (3b) For a 1.6 μs HE-STF, its value in the frequency domain is Among them, HES ±504 =0.

[0146] As can be seen from the above values, this HE-STF has 124 non-zero values ​​in the frequency domain. That is, a total of 124 subcarriers can carry non-zero values.

[0147] (4) For 160MHz, there can be a total of 2048 subcarriers, and the index range of these 2048 subcarriers is from -1024 to 1023.

[0148] (4a) For a HE-STF of 0.8 μs, its value in the frequency domain is

[0149] As can be seen from the above values, this HE-STF can have 124 non-zero values ​​in the frequency domain. That is, a total of 124 subcarriers can carry non-zero values.

[0150] (4b) For a 1.6 μs HE-STF, its value in the frequency domain is Among them, HES ±8 =0, HES ±1016 =0.

[0151] As can be seen from the above values, this HE-STF can have 248 non-zero values ​​in the frequency domain. That is, a total of 248 subcarriers can carry non-zero values.

[0152] In the above content, the rotation factor In the complex plane, this means rotating a certain value counterclockwise by 45° while maintaining energy uniformity. Similarly, It rotates a value counterclockwise by 225°.

[0153] The following describes the EHT-STF values ​​in the frequency domain.

[0154] For frequencies ranging from 20MHz to 160MHz, the value of EHT-STF in the frequency domain is the same as that of HE-STF, i.e., EHTS = HES. Please refer to the explanations in (1) to (4) above, which will not be repeated here.

[0155] (5) For 320MHz, there can be a total of 4096 subcarriers in 320MHz, and the index range of these 4096 subcarriers is -2048 to 2047.

[0156] (5a) For an EHT-STF of 0.8 μs, its value in the frequency domain is

[0157]

[0158] (5b) For the 1.6 μs EHT-STF, its value in the frequency domain

[0159]

[0160] Among them, EHTS ±8 =EHTS ±1016 =EHTS ±1032 =EHTS ±2040 =0.

[0161] The sequences carried by the various STFs shown above are merely examples. As the standard progresses, other sequences may appear in the future, and this application does not limit them.

[0162] The power of the data field in a PPDU is adjusted with reference to the power of the NL-STF in the same PPDU. Typically, the power of these two fields is the same. Therefore, when the receiver receives the NL-STF, it can accurately adjust the power of the data field based on the power of the NL-STF, thus accurately receiving the data field according to the obtained power.

[0163] However, under power spectral density constraints, the power of the NL-STF and the power of the data field often cannot be the same, and the NL-STF power may even be less than the data field power. This can lead to the receiver being unable to accurately adjust the power of the data field. For example, due to power spectral density limitations, the maximum transmission power of the data field may be greater than the maximum transmission power of the NL-STF. If the data field and NL-STF are still transmitted with the same power as the NL-STF, the transmission power of the data field will be reduced, thereby lowering the signal-to-noise ratio and resulting in a high packet error rate when the receiver receives the data field.

[0164] In view of this, embodiments of this application provide a communication method and apparatus that accurately adjusts the power of the data field by combining the power of the NL-STF and the differential, thereby using a more suitable transmission power to transmit the data field, which can improve the reception power of the data field and reduce the packet error rate.

[0165] Figure 5 This is a schematic flowchart of a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application. The description of the AP and non-AP STA involved in this method can be found above and will not be detailed here. Figure 5 As shown, the method includes:

[0166] 501. The AP generates a trigger frame, which includes a common information field or a special user information field. The common information field or the special user information field includes indication information, which can be used to indicate the difference between the transmission power of the STF in the TB PPDU and the transmission power of the data field in the TB PPDU.

[0167] The aforementioned TB PPDU is a PPDU triggered by a trigger frame. For an explanation of trigger frames, please refer to the description of uplink multi-user transmission above; it will not be elaborated upon here.

[0168] Taking the trigger frame shown above as an example, the indication information can be carried in Figure 3b or Figure 3c The reserved bits shown; or, the indication information can reuse existing fields. The embodiments of this application do not limit the position of the indication information in the public information field or the special user information field.

[0169] For example, when the indication information is contained in reserved bits within a public information field or a special user information field, if the number of reserved bits in the public information field or the special user information field is greater than or equal to the number of bits occupied by the indication information, then the indication information can be contained within either the public information field or the special user information field. When the number of reserved bits in the public information field or the special user information field is less than the number of bits occupied by the indication information, the indication information can be contained within both the public information field and the special user information field. In other words, N1 bits in the public information field and N2 bits in the special user information field can carry the indication information, where N1 + N2 = N, and N1 and N2 are both positive integers. The above explanation also applies to cases where the indication information reuses existing fields, which will not be elaborated here.

[0170] The STF can be the NL-STF in a TB PPDU. For example, for an EHT TB PPDU, the STF can include the EHT-STF. Similarly, for a UHR TB PPDU, the STF can include the UHR-STF. And for an IMMW TB PPDU, the STF can include the IMMW-STF. The names of NL-STFs are not listed here.

[0171] The aforementioned difference can be used to describe the gap between the transmit power of the STF in the TB PPDU and the transmit power of the data field in the TB PPDU. The indication information can indicate the difference explicitly or implicitly.

[0172] As an example, the difference can include a ratio. For instance, this ratio could be: STF transmission power / data field transmission power. Alternatively, the ratio could be: data field transmission power / STF transmission power. Taking the ratio = STF transmission power / data field transmission power as an example, this ratio can be equal to 1 or less than 1. Using a ratio, the difference between the STF transmission power and the data field transmission power can be implicitly indicated.

[0173] As another example, the difference can include a value. For instance, the difference could be: STF transmit power - data field transmit power. Alternatively, the difference could be: data field transmit power - STF transmit power. This difference can be zero, positive, or negative. Using a difference explicitly indicates the difference between the STF transmit power and the data field transmit power.

[0174] Besides the ratios or differences listed above, other ways can be used to represent differences in specific implementations, which will not be listed here.

[0175] For ease of description, the following explanation uses the ratio of STF transmit power to data field transmit power as an example when specific examples are mentioned. The ratio and the difference can be converted to each other; for example, if the ratio is 0.8, the difference can be determined based on the STF transmit power and the data field transmit power. Therefore, the explanation of the ratio below also applies to the difference.

[0176] As one possible implementation, a difference can occupy 1 bit. This 1 bit can correspond to 2 values. Taking the ratio as an example, these 2 values ​​can indicate: ratio = 1, or ratio < 1, such as a fixed value less than 1, like 0.8 or 0.9. That is, the transmission power of the STF can be the same as the transmission power of the data field, or the transmission power of the STF can be less than the transmission power of the data field. Of course, the transmission power of the STF can also be greater than the transmission power of the data field, which will not be listed here.

[0177] As another possible implementation, a difference can occupy M bits, and these M ratios can correspond to a maximum of 2^3 ... M These 2 values. M Each of these values ​​can correspond to a ratio, or, these 2... M Of these values, some may correspond to ratios, while the remaining values ​​are retained. For example, these 2... M The value #1 in these two values ​​can indicate a ratio of 1. M The value #2 in these two values ​​can indicate a ratio of 0.9. M The value #3 in these two values ​​can indicate a ratio of 0.85. M The value #4 in these two values ​​can indicate a ratio of 0.8. M Value #5 can indicate a ratio of 0.75, etc., and will not be listed here. Of course, the ratios shown here are merely examples and should not be construed as limiting the embodiments of this application. Values ​​#1 to #5 shown here can be understood as 2. M Five distinct values ​​from a set of values. M is an integer greater than or equal to 2.

[0178] The difference shown above can be defined by the protocol or determined by the AP. For example, the difference can be determined based on the discrete bandwidth of the DRU corresponding to the non-AP STA or the size of the DRU corresponding to the non-AP STA; or, the difference can be determined based on the size of the rRU corresponding to the non-AP STA. The method for determining the difference will be discussed below and will not be elaborated upon here.

[0179] For STFs of different periods, this application also provides different ratios in its embodiments:

[0180] As an example, the period of the STF is 1.6 μs, and the ratio can be any of the following: 0.8, 0.81, 0.85, 0.87, 0.9.

[0181] As another example, the STF has a period of 0.8 μs and a ratio of any of the following: 0.75, 0.79, 0.8, 0.81, 0.85, 0.87, 0.9.

[0182] The method for determining the ratio shown above can be found in the following text, which will not be detailed here.

[0183] As one possible implementation, the indication information includes a differential value that may correspond to the bandwidth of the trigger frame scheduling.

[0184] For example, the trigger frame may include a UL BW subfield and a UL BW extended subfield in the special user information field. These two fields are used to indicate the bandwidth scheduled by the trigger frame. The bandwidth scheduled by the trigger frame can also be understood as the bandwidth of the TB PPDU triggered by the trigger frame.

[0185] For example, if the bandwidth of the trigger frame scheduling is 320MHz, then this difference can apply to the difference between the transmit power of the STF and the transmit power of the data field in all TB PPDUs transmitted by non-AP STAs within 320MHz. That is, the difference between the transmit power of the STF and the transmit power of the data field in all TB PPDUs transmitted by non-AP STAs under this trigger frame scheduling can be the same as the difference indicated by the indication information.

[0186] The bandwidth of the trigger frame scheduling mentioned above is 320MHz. In specific implementations, the bandwidth of the trigger frame scheduling can be larger, such as 640MHz, or smaller, such as 160MHz, 80MHz, 40MHz, or 20MHz. For the explanation of the difference, please refer to the 320MHz example listed above. They will not be listed here one by one.

[0187] Taking the example of a difference occupying 1 bit as listed above, the indication information can occupy 1 bit. Taking the example of a difference occupying M bits as listed above, the indication information can occupy M bits.

[0188] In this embodiment, the indication information in the trigger frame indicates a difference, enabling all non-AP STAs scheduled by the trigger frame to use this difference to transmit the STF and data fields in the TB PPDU, thereby effectively saving signaling overhead. Simultaneously, by indicating the difference, even if the transmission power of the STF is less than the transmission power of the data field, the AP can still use the receiving power of the STF to adjust the receiving power of the data field when receiving the TB PPDU, allowing for a higher receiving power for the data field and effectively reducing the packet error rate of the data field.

[0189] As another possible implementation 4, the indication information includes information on N differentials, each of which corresponds to a frequency slice of the trigger frame scheduling, where N is an integer greater than 1.

[0190] For example, if the bandwidth for triggering frame scheduling is 320MHz and the frequency slice is 80MHz, the indication information can include four differential values, each corresponding to an 80MHz segment. The first differential value can correspond to the first 80MHz segment within the 320MHz range (e.g., frequency from high to low, or frequency from low to high), the second differential value can correspond to the second 80MHz segment within the 320MHz range, and so on. The correspondence between differential values ​​and frequency slices can be defined by the protocol or determined by the order of the differential values ​​and the frequency order.

[0191] The first differential parameter mentioned above can be applied to all non-AP STAs scheduled within the first 80MHz. For example, non-APSTA#1 can obtain its corresponding user information field by interpreting the trigger frame, and from this user information field, it can obtain its own rRU, MRU, or DRU, as well as the 80MHz (such as the first 80MHz) where the aforementioned rRU, MRU, or DRU is located. Therefore, non-APSTA#1 can obtain its corresponding differential parameter based on the correspondence between the differential parameter and the frequency slice. Similarly, the second differential parameter mentioned above can be applied to all non-AP STAs scheduled within the second 80MHz, the third differential parameter can be applied to all non-AP STAs scheduled within the third 80MHz, and the fourth differential parameter can be applied to all non-AP STAs scheduled within the fourth 80MHz.

[0192] When the bandwidth of the trigger frame scheduling is 160MHz and the frequency slice is 80MHz, the indication information can include two differential values. When the bandwidth of the trigger frame scheduling is 640MHz and the frequency slice is 80MHz, the indication information can include eight differential values.

[0193] The above example uses a frequency slice of 80MHz. Optionally, the frequency slice can also be 160MHz, etc., which will not be listed here.

[0194] The value of N mentioned above can be defined by the protocol. Alternatively, the value of N can be determined by the AP based on the bandwidth and frequency fragmentation scheduled by the trigger frame, and the AP can indicate the value of N to the non-AP STA, such as by indicating the value of N through the trigger frame, etc., which is not limited here. N=2 or N=4, etc.

[0195] For example, if the bandwidth of the trigger frame scheduling is 320MHz, the frequency slice can be 160MHz, and N=2; or, if the bandwidth of the trigger frame scheduling is 160MHz, the frequency slice is 80MHz, and N=2. When the value of N is defined by the protocol, as one possible implementation, the size of the frequency slice can vary according to the bandwidth of the trigger frame scheduling and the value of N.

[0196] For example, the value of N can be determined by the maximum bandwidth of the trigger frame scheduling and the frequency slice. If the maximum bandwidth of the trigger frame scheduling is 320MHz (for example only) and the frequency slice is 80MHz, then N = 4. In this case, if the bandwidth of the trigger frame scheduling is 160MHz, but the indication information still occupies 4 bits, the method for setting the value of N is not limited in this application.

[0197] Taking the example of a difference occupying 1 bit as listed above, the number of bits occupied by the indication information can be equal to the number N of differences indicated by the indication information. Taking N=4 as an example, the indication information can occupy 4 bits, and each of these 4 bits can correspond to a frequency segment. For example, each bit can correspond to 2 values. Value #1 can be used to indicate the ratio of the STF to the transmission power of the data field in the TB PPDU when each non-AP STA scheduled within the frequency segment corresponding to the bit sends a TB PPDU, such as 1; value #2 can be used to indicate the ratio of the STF to the transmission power of the data field in the TB PPDU when each non-AP STA scheduled within the frequency segment corresponding to the bit sends a TB PPDU, such as 0.8 or 0.9, etc. For an explanation of the difference corresponding to each bit, please refer to Implementation Method 1 above, which will not be detailed here.

[0198] Taking the example of a difference occupying M bits as listed above, the number of bits occupied by the indication information can be equal to the number of differences indicated by that indication information, N*M. Taking N=4 as an example, the indication information can occupy 4*M bits. Each M bits of these 4*M bits can correspond to a frequency segment. For an explanation of the difference corresponding to each M bits, please refer to Implementation Method 2 above, which will not be detailed here.

[0199] In this embodiment, the indication information in the trigger frame indicates N differential values, enabling each non-AP STA within each frequency segment scheduled by the trigger frame to transmit the STF and data fields in the TB PPDU using the differential values ​​corresponding to the frequency segment. This allows for precise indication of the differential values ​​within each frequency segment. Furthermore, by indicating the differential values, even if the transmission power of the STF is less than the transmission power of the data field, the AP can still use the receiving power of the STF to adjust the receiving power of the data field when receiving the TB PPDU, resulting in higher receiving power for the data field and effectively reducing the packet error rate of the data field.

[0200] 502. The AP sends a trigger frame, and the corresponding non-AP STA receives the trigger frame.

[0201] The method of parsing trigger frames for non-AP STA is not limited in the embodiments of this application.

[0202] 503. The non-AP STA sends the STF and data fields from the TB PPDU based on the differential. Correspondingly, the AP receives the STF and data fields from the TB PPDU.

[0203] Non-AP STAs can send the STF and data fields from the TB PPDU based on their corresponding differential. The relationship between non-AP STAs and differentials can be found in Implementation Methods 3 and 4 above, and will not be detailed here. The method for sending the STF can be found below, and will not be detailed here.

[0204] For a non-AP STA, the transmission power of the STF in the TB PPDU is the first transmission power, and the transmission power of the data field in the TB PPDU is the second transmission power. For example, a non-AP STA can determine the transmission power of the data field and, based on the transmission power of the data field and the difference, determine the transmission power of the STF. The difference between the first and second transmission powers can be the same as the difference indicated in the indication information corresponding to the non-AP STA. For example, if the difference includes a ratio, then the first transmission power / second transmission power can be equal to the aforementioned ratio. Of course, a non-AP STA can also adjust the difference between the first and second transmission powers based on the difference indicated in the indication information. For example, if the difference indicated in the indication information is 0.8, but the indication information indicates a minimum difference, then the non-AP STA can determine the actual difference between the first and second transmission powers based on the adjustment amount and the aforementioned minimum difference. The aforementioned adjustment amount can be defined by the protocol or is known to both the AP and the non-AP STA.

[0205] For an access point (AP), the received power of the STF field in the TB PPDU is the first received power, and the received power of the data field in the TB PPDU is the second received power. The difference between the first and second received power can be determined according to the difference indicated in the indication information, or it can be the difference determined by the AP before sending the trigger frame. Of course, the AP can also adjust the difference between the first and second received power using an adjustment amount. This adjustment amount can be the adjustment amount used during the receiver power adjustment process.

[0206] For example, the AP can improve the AGC estimation based on the received power and differential of the STF. For instance, the AP can perform relevant calculations based on the STF period to obtain the received power of the STF (such as the first received power shown above), and determine gain #1 based on the received power of the STF and the target received power of the data field (such as the received power set for the AP, i.e., the expected or estimated received power). Then, gain #2 is determined based on gain #1 and the differential, and gain #2 is used for AGC estimation. The AP can receive the data field with gain #2 (such as receiving the data field at the second received power), making the received power of the data field more accurate, thereby effectively improving the signal-to-noise ratio and reducing the packet error rate of the data field.

[0207] It is understandable that when calculating the received power of an STF, the AP can perform relevant calculations based on the STF period and the transmission method of the STF. The transmission method of the STF is discussed below and will not be detailed here. For example, for an rRU, since the sequence carried in the STF transmitted by the transmitting station overlaps with the sequence in the rRU's frequency domain, the received power of the STF can be calculated based on the STF period and the overlapping sequence in the rRU's frequency domain. Similarly, for a DRU, taking an STF carrying a discrete bandwidth STF as an example, the received power of the STF can be calculated based on the STF period and the discrete bandwidth STF. The specific calculation method for the received power of the STF is not limited in the embodiments of this application.

[0208] Generally, when the STF and data fields in a TB PPDU are transmitted through a channel, the channel conditions are the same. Therefore, the difference in transmit power between the STF and data fields usually also applies to the difference in receive power between the STF and data fields. However, in specific implementations, differences in receivers may lead to variations in the difference between the receive power and transmit power of the STF and data fields. In such cases, as a possible implementation, the AP can still determine the difference in receive power between the STF and data fields based on the difference in transmit power.

[0209] In this embodiment, the AP indicates the difference between the transmission power of the STF and the transmission power of the data field in the TB PPDU via a trigger frame. This allows the non-AP STA to use an appropriate transmission power to transmit the STF and data field based on this difference, effectively improving the transmission power of the data field. Therefore, the AP can accurately adjust the reception power of the data field based on the aforementioned difference, resulting in higher reception power for the reception field and reduced packet error rate.

[0210] Figure 6This is another flowchart illustrating the communication method provided in this application. The first station may include an Access Point (AP), and the second station may include a non-AP STA; or, the first station may include a non-AP STA, and the second station may include an AP. The descriptions of the AP and non-AP STA involved in this method can be found above and will not be detailed here. Figure 6 As shown, the method includes:

[0211] 601. The first station generates a PPDU, which includes a SIG field, an STF field, and a data field. The SIG field includes indication information, which is used to indicate the difference between the transmission power of the STF and the transmission power of the data field.

[0212] The SIG field may include the U-SIG field. The U-SIG field may carry signaling for demodulating subsequent fields. Alternatively, the SIG field may also include SIG fields corresponding to different generations of standards, such as the EHT-SIG field, UHR-SIG field, or IMW-SIG field.

[0213] For an explanation of the instruction information, please refer to the description of the differential above, as well as implementation method 1, implementation method 2, etc., which will not be elaborated here.

[0214] In this embodiment of the application, the difference indicated by the indication information is the difference between the transmission power of the STF in the PPDU and the transmission power of the data field in the PPDU.

[0215] For example, Figure 6 The PPDU shown can also be called MU PPDU.

[0216] 602. The first station sends the STF and data fields of the PPDU according to the difference. Correspondingly, the second station receives the PPDU.

[0217] For example, the first station can determine the transmission power of the data field, and determine the transmission power of the STF based on the transmission power of the data field and the difference.

[0218] For example, the second station can perform relevant calculations based on the STF period to obtain the STF received power, and determine gain #1 based on the STF received power and the target received power of the data field. Then, gain #2 is determined based on gain #1 and the difference, and gain #2 can be used for AGC estimation. The second station can receive the data field based on gain #2. For instructions on the first station transmitting PPDUs, please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 5 For a description of non-AP STA sending PPDUs, and instructions on second-site receiving PPDUs, please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 5The description of AP receiving TB PPDU will not be detailed here.

[0219] In this embodiment, the first station indicates the difference between the transmission power of the STF and the transmission power of the data field in the PPDU it transmits, which enables the second station to use an appropriate reception power to receive the data field, effectively improving the reception power of the reception field and reducing the packet error rate.

[0220] The following describes the STF transmission method in the embodiments of this application.

[0221] For rRU, that is, when the sending station sends data through the rRU, such as... Figure 5 The TB PPDU shown or as Figure 6 When a PPDU is shown, the sequence carried in the STF overlaps with the frequency domain of the rRU, or in other words, the frequency domain value of the STF falls into the rRU. For example, an STF with a period of 0.8 μs is mainly used for TB-PPDUs, and an STF with a period of 1.6 μs is mainly used for multi-user physical layer protocol data units (MU-PPDUs). Of course, the relationship between the STF period and the PPDU shown here is merely an example and should not be construed as a limitation on the embodiments of this application. The transmitting station mentioned above refers to the station that transmits TB PPDUs or PPDUs; that is, the station that transmits TB PPDUs or PPDUs is called the transmitting station (including non-AP STAs or APs).

[0222] For example, taking (1a) above as an example, the value of STF in the frequency domain That is, it carries in the following subcarriers sequentially.

[0223] If the rRU of the sending station sending TB PPDU is Figure 2a The 242-tone RU shown has {-112:16:112} all falling within the 242-tone RU range. Therefore, the STF value transmitted by this transmitting station in the frequency domain is... The values ​​on all other subcarriers (not shown) are 0.

[0224] For example, the rRU for a sending station to send a TB PPDU is... Figure 2a The 106-tone RU shown on the left has the following STF values ​​in the frequency domain: {-112:16:112} fall within the subcarriers {-112, -96, -80, -64, -48, -32, -16}. The values ​​on all other subcarriers (not shown) are 0.

[0225] Regarding DRU, as one possible implementation, the sending station sends data via DRU, such as... Figure 5 The TBPPDU shown or as Figure 6 In the PPDU example shown, the sequence carried in the STF is an STF with discrete bandwidth. That is, for stations with the same discrete bandwidth, the STFs sent by these stations are identical. The DRUs (Discrete Required Units) of these stations can be the same or different. The aforementioned discrete bandwidth can be understood as the bandwidth corresponding to the discrete range of the DRU.

[0226] Generally, the smaller the subcarrier spacing used to carry non-zero values ​​in the frequency domain of an STF, the larger its period. Conversely, the larger the subcarrier spacing used to carry non-zero values ​​in the frequency domain, the smaller its period. Within the RU's frequency range, fewer subcarriers are used to carry non-zero values, leading to inaccurate STF power measurements. Therefore, for rRUs (remotely used local RUs), the frequency range is small, so an STF with a period of 0.8 μs is mainly used for TB-PPDUs. For DRUs (demotely used local RUs), the frequency range is large, so as a possible implementation, both 0.8 μs and 1.6 μs STFs can be applied to TB PPDUs, or even MU PPDUs.

[0227] For example, for an STF with a discrete bandwidth of 20MHz and a period of 0.8μs, the sequence of the STF carried by the transmitting station can be as shown in (1a) above; for an STF with a period of 1.6μs, the sequence of the STF carried by the transmitting station can be as shown in (1b) above.

[0228] For example, for an STF with a discrete bandwidth of 40MHz and a period of 0.8μs, the sequence of the STF carried by the transmitting station can be as shown in (2a) above; for an STF with a period of 1.6μs, the sequence of the STF carried by the transmitting station can be as shown in (2b) above.

[0229] For example, for an STF with a discrete bandwidth of 80MHz and a period of 0.8μs, the sequence of the STF carried by the transmitting station can be as shown in (3a) above; for an STF with a period of 1.6μs, the sequence of the STF carried by the transmitting station can be as shown in (3b) above.

[0230] For example, for an STF with a discrete bandwidth of 160MHz and a period of 0.8μs, the sequence of the STF carried by the transmitting station can be as shown in (4a) above; for an STF with a period of 1.6μs, the sequence of the STF carried by the transmitting station can be as shown in (4b) above.

[0231] As another possible implementation, the sending station sends data via DRU, such as... Figure 5 The TB PPDU shown or as Figure 6 When a PPDU is shown, the sequence carried in the STF can be a sequence that overlaps with the frequency range between the first and last subcarriers of the DRU, or in other words, the STF's frequency value falls within the aforementioned frequency range.

[0232] For example, consider an STF with a discrete bandwidth of 20MHz and a period of 0.8μs. The transmitting station's DRU is a 26-tone DRU with a subcarrier index of -25:2:25 (for example only). The first subcarrier of this 26-tone DRU is -25, the last subcarrier is 25, and the subcarrier indices falling between -25 and 25 are -16 and 16. The values ​​carried on subcarrier indices -16 and 16 are... All values ​​other than the aforementioned subcarriers are 0.

[0233] The STF transmission method shown above is merely an example and should not be construed as limiting the embodiments of this application.

[0234] The following describes the method for determining the difference in the embodiments of this application.

[0235] Table 3 exemplarily illustrates the maximum transmit power of the STF and the maximum transmit power of the data field when transmitting TB PPDU or MU PPDU via a DRU. For a single DRU, the maximum transmit power per MHz is P. The specific value of P may be specified by regulations.

[0236] Referring to (1a), (2a), (3a) and (4a) above, for a 0.8μs STF, the step size is 16, so there can be at most one subcarrier carrying a non-zero value per MHz. The maximum transmit power of this STF can be determined by the number of non-zero values ​​in its frequency domain (refer to (1) to (4) above) and P. For example, for 20MHz, the maximum transmit power of this STF is 14P. For 40MHz, the maximum transmit power of this STF is 30P. For 80MHz, the maximum transmit power of this STF is 62P. For 160MHz, the maximum transmit power of this STF is 124P.

[0237] Referring to (1b), (2b), (3b), and (4b) above, for a 1.6μs STF, the step size is 8, therefore a maximum of 2 subcarriers can carry non-zero values ​​per MHz. The maximum transmit power of this STF can be determined by the number of non-zero values ​​in the frequency domain (refer to (1) to (4) above), P, and 2. For example, for 20MHz, the maximum transmit power of this STF is (P / 2)*30. For 40MHz, the maximum transmit power of this STF is (P / 2)*60. For 80MHz, the maximum transmit power of this STF is (P / 2)*124. For 160MHz, the maximum transmit power of this STF is (P / 2)*248.

[0238] The maximum transmit power of the data field can be determined by the discrete bandwidth, the DRU size, and the maximum number of subcarriers per MHz. The DRU size shown in Table 3 indicates the number of subcarriers included in the DRU. The definition of DRU can be found in the terminology description above and will not be elaborated upon here.

[0239] The maximum number of subcarriers per MHz within each DRU shown in Table 3 is merely an example and should not be construed as a limitation on the embodiments of this application. The values ​​shown in Table 3 are exemplified by an STF where the sequence carried in the STF is a discrete bandwidth STF, but this application is not limited to this.

[0240] Table 3

[0241]

[0242] As can be seen from Table 3, the DRU size is 52 or 106 for a discrete bandwidth of 20MHz; 106 or 242 for a discrete bandwidth of 40MHz; 484 for a discrete bandwidth of 80MHz; and 996 for a discrete bandwidth of 160MHz. Under these conditions, the maximum transmission power of the data field is greater than the maximum transmission power of the STF.

[0243] When a transmitting station transmits a TB PPDU or MU PPDU with a transmission power of less than or equal to the STF (Standard Transmission Power), the transmission power of the data field may be low, resulting in a low reception power for that data field, reducing the signal-to-noise ratio and increasing the packet error rate. Therefore, in this embodiment, by explicitly indicating the differential, the transmitting station can transmit the data field with a more appropriate transmission power, and the receiving station can receive the data field with a more appropriate reception power, thereby improving the reception power of the data field and reducing the packet error rate.

[0244] Table 4 provides an example of the maximum transmit power of the STF and the maximum transmit power of the data field when transmitting TB PPDU or MU PPDU via rRU. The maximum transmit power per MHz is P. The specific value of P may be specified by regulations.

[0245] Regarding rRUs, since the subcarriers included in an rRU are consecutive, the maximum number of subcarriers per MHz is 13, and the transmit power of each subcarrier is P / 13. Under the rRU size shown in Table 4, the sequence of STF bearers transmitted by the transmitting station can be considered as the frequency domain value of the STF over the entire channel bandwidth.

[0246] Table 4

[0247]

[0248]

[0249] For each rRU size shown in Table 4, the maximum transmission power of the data field is greater than the maximum transmission power of the STF.

[0250] By combining the maximum transmit power values ​​shown in Tables 3 and 4, the difference can be determined. Table 5 uses the STF / data field as an example, and Table 6 uses the data field-STF as an example.

[0251] Table 5

[0252]

[0253] Table 6

[0254]

[0255] against Figure 5 In the method shown, since the DRU size / rRU size of each non-AP STA in the trigger frame scheduling may be different, for example, non-AP STA#1 has a discrete bandwidth of 20MHz and a DRU size of 52 or 106; non-AP STA#2 has a discrete bandwidth of 20MHz and a DRU size of 26. When all the above non-AP STAs use the same differential, although non-AP STA#1 and non-AP STA#2 have different DRU sizes, they can both transmit the data field at the maximum transmission power of the data field as much as possible.

[0256] In the specific implementation, the difference shown in Table 5 or Table 6 can be determined by other methods, such as rounding down or rounding up, or averaging the above differences. Then, the difference indicated in the instruction information is the difference between the difference shown in Table 6 and the average value.

[0257] The above describes the exchange of the difference between the STF transmit power and the data field transmit power via indicator information. However, in practical implementations, this exchange can also be performed without indicator information. For example, the difference can be defined by the standard.

[0258] For any part of the implementation or example not described in detail in one of the above implementations or examples, please refer to other implementations or examples.

[0259] The following describes the communication device provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0260] This application divides the communication device into functional modules according to the above-described method embodiments. For example, each function can be divided into its own functional modules, or two or more functions can be integrated into one processing module. The integrated modules can be implemented in hardware or as software functional modules. It should be noted that the module division in this application is illustrative and represents only one logical functional division; other division methods may be used in actual implementation. The following will combine... Figures 7 to 9 The communication device of the embodiments of this application is described in detail.

[0261] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application, such as... Figure 7 As shown, the communication device includes a processing module 701 and a transceiver module 702. The transceiver module 702 can implement corresponding communication functions, and the processing module 701 is used to implement corresponding processing functions. The transceiver module 702 can also be referred to as an interface, communication interface, or communication module, etc.

[0262] In some embodiments of this application, the communication device can be used to perform the actions performed by the AP in the above method embodiments. In this case, the AP can be the Wi-Fi device itself or a chip or functional module configurable in the device. The transceiver module 702 is used to perform the transceiver-related operations of the AP in the above method embodiments, and the processing module 701 is used to perform the processing-related operations of the AP in the above method embodiments.

[0263] The processing module 701 can be used to generate a trigger frame; the transceiver module 702 can be used to send or output the trigger frame.

[0264] For example, transceiver module 702 can also be used to receive or input TB PPDU.

[0265] For example, transceiver module 702 may include radio frequency module, antenna module, etc. For example, transceiver module 702 may include input / output module, etc.

[0266] Reuse Figure 7In other embodiments of this application, the communication device can be used to perform the actions performed by the non-AP STA in the above method embodiments. In this case, the communication device can be the Wi-Fi device itself or a chip or functional module configurable in the device. The transceiver module 702 is used to perform the transceiver-related operations of the non-AP STA in the above method embodiments, and the processing module 701 is used to perform the processing-related operations of the non-AP STA in the above method embodiments.

[0267] The transceiver module 702 can be used to receive or input a trigger frame; the processing module 701 can be used to parse the trigger frame.

[0268] For example, the transceiver module 702 can also be used to send or output a TB PPDU.

[0269] For example, transceiver module 702 may include radio frequency module, antenna module, etc. For example, transceiver module 702 may include input / output module, etc.

[0270] In some embodiments of this application, the communication device can be used to perform the actions performed by the first station in the above method embodiments. In this case, the first station can be the Wi-Fi device itself or a chip or functional module configurable in the device. The transceiver module 702 is used to perform the transceiver-related operations of the first station in the above method embodiments, and the processing module 701 is used to perform the processing-related operations of the first station in the above method embodiments.

[0271] The processing module 701 can be used to generate a MUPPDU; the transceiver module 702 can be used to send or output the MUPPDU.

[0272] For example, transceiver module 702 may include radio frequency module, antenna module, etc. For example, transceiver module 702 may include input / output module, etc.

[0273] Reuse Figure 7 In other embodiments of this application, the communication device can be used to perform the actions performed by the second station in the above method embodiments. In this case, the second station can be the Wi-Fi device itself or a chip or functional module configurable in the device. The transceiver module 702 is used to perform the transceiver-related operations of the second station in the above method embodiments, and the processing module 701 is used to perform the processing-related operations of the second station in the above method embodiments.

[0274] The transceiver module 702 can be used to receive or input MUPPDU; the processing module 701 can be used to parse the MUPPDU.

[0275] For example, transceiver module 702 may include radio frequency module, antenna module, etc. For example, transceiver module 702 may include input / output module, etc.

[0276] Optionally, in the above embodiments, the communication device may further include a storage module, which can be used to store instructions and / or data. The processing module 701 can read the instructions and / or data from the storage module to enable the communication device to implement the aforementioned method embodiments. For example, the storage module may store subcarrier planning, etc., as shown above.

[0277] For details regarding the specific explanations of each term, noun, or step in the above embodiments, please refer to the descriptions in the above method embodiments; they will not be detailed here.

[0278] The specific descriptions of the transceiver module and processing module shown in the above embodiments are merely examples. For the specific functions or execution steps of the transceiver module and processing module, please refer to the above method embodiments, which will not be described in detail here.

[0279] The communication device according to the embodiments of this application has been described above. The following describes the possible product forms of the communication device. Any device possessing the above-described... Figure 7 Any form of the communication device described herein falls within the protection scope of the embodiments of this application. The following description is merely illustrative and does not limit the product form of the communication device in the embodiments of this application to this.

[0280] In one possible implementation, Figure 7 In the communication device shown, the processing module 701 can be one or more processors, and the transceiver module 702 can be a transceiver, or the transceiver module 702 can also be a transmitting module and a receiving module. The transmitting module can be a transmitter, and the receiving module can be a receiver. The transmitting module and the receiving module are integrated into one device, such as a transceiver. In the embodiments of this application, the processor and the transceiver can be coupled, etc., and the connection method between the processor and the transceiver is not limited in the embodiments of this application. In the process of executing the above method, the process of sending information in the above method can be the process of the processor outputting the above information. When outputting the above information, the processor outputs the above information to the transceiver so that the transceiver can transmit it. After the above information is output by the processor, it may need to undergo other processing before reaching the transceiver. Similarly, the process of receiving information in the above method can be the process of the processor receiving the above information input. When the processor receives the input information, the transceiver receives the above information and inputs it into the processor. Furthermore, after the transceiver receives the above information, the above information may need to undergo other processing before being input into the processor.

[0281] like Figure 8As shown, the communication device 80 includes one or more processors 820 and transceivers 810.

[0282] In some embodiments of this application, the communication device can be used to perform the steps, methods, or functions performed by the AP or the first site described above. For example, the processor 820 can be used to perform, for example... Figure 7 The transceiver 810 can be used to perform the functions or steps implemented by the processing module 701 shown. Figure 7 The transceiver module 702 shown illustrates the functions or steps implemented by this module. For detailed information on the processor 820 and transceiver 810, please refer to [link / reference needed]. Figure 7 Alternatively, the method embodiments shown above will not be described in detail here.

[0283] In other embodiments of this application, the communication device is used to perform the steps, methods, or functions described above for non-AP STA or second site, such as the processor 820 being used to perform... Figure 7 The transceiver 810 can be used to perform the functions or steps implemented by the processing module 701 shown. Figure 7 The transceiver module 702 shown illustrates the functions or steps implemented by this module. For detailed information on the processor 820 and transceiver 810, please refer to [link / reference needed]. Figure 7 Alternatively, the method embodiments shown above will not be described in detail here.

[0284] exist Figure 8 In various implementations of the communication apparatus shown, the transceiver may include a receiver for performing a receiving function (or operation) and a transmitter for performing a transmitting function (or operation). The transceiver is also used to communicate with other devices / appliances via a transmission medium.

[0285] Optionally, the communication device 80 may further include one or more memories 830 for storing program instructions and / or data. The memory 830 is coupled to the processor 820. The coupling in this embodiment is an indirect coupling or communication connection between communication devices, units, or modules, and can be electrical, mechanical, or other forms, used for information exchange between the communication devices, units, or modules. The processor 820 may operate in conjunction with the memory 830. The processor 820 may execute program instructions stored in the memory 830. Optionally, at least one of the above-mentioned memories may be included in the processor.

[0286] This application embodiment does not limit the specific connection medium between the transceiver 810, processor 820, and memory 830. This application embodiment... Figure 8 The memory 830, processor 820, and transceiver 810 are connected via a bus 840, and the bus is in... Figure 8The connections between other components are shown in bold and are for illustrative purposes only, not as limiting information. The bus can be divided into address bus, data bus, control bus, etc. For ease of illustration, Figure 8 The bus is represented by a single thick line, but this does not mean that there is only one bus or one type of bus.

[0287] In the embodiments of this application, the processor may be a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, discrete hardware components, etc., and can implement or execute the various methods, steps, and logic block diagrams disclosed in the embodiments of this application. The general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor or any conventional processor. The steps of the methods disclosed in the embodiments of this application can be directly manifested as being executed by a hardware processor, or being executed by a combination of hardware and software modules within the processor.

[0288] In this application embodiment, the memory may include, but is not limited to, non-volatile memory such as hard disk drive (HDD) or solid-state drive (SSD), random access memory (RAM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), read-only memory (ROM), or compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), etc. Memory is any storage medium capable of carrying or storing program code in the form of instructions or data structures, and capable of being read and / or written by a computer (such as the communication device shown in this application), but is not limited to this. The memory in this application embodiment may also be a circuit or any other device capable of implementing storage functions, used to store program instructions and / or data.

[0289] The processor 820 is primarily used for processing communication protocols and data, controlling the entire communication device, executing software programs, and processing software program data. The memory 830 is primarily used for storing software programs and data. The transceiver 810 may include control circuitry and an antenna. The control circuitry is primarily used for converting baseband signals to radio frequency signals and processing radio frequency signals. The antenna is primarily used for transmitting and receiving radio frequency signals in the form of electromagnetic waves. Input / output devices, such as touchscreens, displays, and keyboards, are primarily used for receiving user input data and outputting data to the user.

[0290] When the communication device is powered on, the processor 820 can read the software program in the memory 830, interpret and execute the instructions of the software program, and process the data of the software program. When data needs to be transmitted wirelessly, the processor 820 performs baseband processing on the data to be transmitted and outputs the baseband signal to the radio frequency (RF) circuit. The RF circuit processes the baseband signal and transmits the RF signal outward in the form of electromagnetic waves through the antenna. When data is sent to the communication device, the RF circuit receives the RF signal through the antenna, converts the RF signal into a baseband signal, and outputs the baseband signal to the processor 820. The processor 820 converts the baseband signal into data and processes the data.

[0291] In another implementation, the radio frequency circuitry and antenna can be set up independently of the processor performing baseband processing. For example, in a distributed scenario, the radio frequency circuitry and antenna can be arranged remotely, independent of the communication device.

[0292] The communication device shown in the embodiments of this application may also have a higher... Figure 8 This application does not limit the use of other components or other related elements. The methods performed by the processor and transceiver shown above are merely examples; the specific steps performed by the processor and transceiver can be found in the methods described above. Figure 8 The dashed section indicates that it is optional.

[0293] In another possible implementation Figure 7 In the communication device shown, the processing module 701 can be one or more logic circuits, and the transceiver module 702 can be an input / output interface, or a communication interface, or an interface circuit, or an interface, etc. Alternatively, the transceiver module 702 can also be a transmitting module and a receiving module; the transmitting module can be an output interface, and the receiving module can be an input interface, integrated into one module, such as an input / output interface. Figure 9 As shown, Figure 9 The communication device shown includes logic circuitry 901 and interface 902. That is, the processing module 701 can be implemented using logic circuitry 901, and the transceiver module 702 can be implemented using interface 902. The logic circuitry 901 can be a chip, processing circuit, integrated circuit, or system-on-chip (SoC) chip, etc., and the interface 902 can be a communication interface, input / output interface, pins, etc. For example, Figure 9 Taking the aforementioned communication device as an example, the chip includes a logic circuit 901 and an interface 902.

[0294] In this embodiment, the logic circuit and the interface can also be coupled to each other. The specific connection method between the logic circuit and the interface is not limited in this embodiment. For example, the logic circuit 901 can be used to perform... Figure 7 The processing module 701 shown implements the functions or steps, and the interface 902 can be used to execute such functions or steps. Figure 7 The transceiver module 702 shown herein implements the functions or steps. For detailed descriptions of the logic circuit 901 and interface 902, please refer to [link / reference needed]. Figure 7 Alternatively, the method embodiments shown above will not be described in detail here.

[0295] The communication device shown in the embodiments of this application can implement the method provided in the embodiments of this application in hardware form, or it can implement the method provided in the embodiments of this application in software form, etc., and the embodiments of this application do not limit it in this way.

[0296] Furthermore, embodiments of this application also provide a communication system including a first station and a second station, which can be used to perform the methods in any of the foregoing embodiments. Alternatively, the communication system includes an access point (AP) and a non-AP STA, which can be used to perform the methods in any of the foregoing embodiments.

[0297] This application also provides a computer program for implementing the operations and / or processes performed by various sites in the methods provided in this application.

[0298] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing computer code that, when executed on a computer, causes the computer to perform the operations and / or processes performed by various communication devices in the methods provided in this application.

[0299] This application also provides a computer program product comprising computer code or a computer program that, when run on a computer, causes the operations and / or processes performed by various entities in the method provided in this application to be executed.

[0300] In the embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed systems, communication devices, and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the communication device embodiments described above are merely illustrative. For instance, the division of modules is only a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple modules or components may be combined or integrated into another system, or some features may be ignored or not executed. In addition, the mutual coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed may be indirect coupling or communication connection through some interfaces, communication devices, or modules, or it may be an electrical, mechanical, or other form of connection.

[0301] The modules described as separate components may or may not be physically separate. The components shown as modules may or may not be physical modules; that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network modules. Some or all of the modules can be selected according to actual needs to achieve the technical effects of the solutions provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0302] Furthermore, the functional modules in the various embodiments of this application can be integrated into one processing module, or each module can exist physically separately, or two or more modules can be integrated into one module. The integrated modules described above can be implemented in hardware or as software functional modules.

[0303] If the integrated module is implemented as a software functional module and sold or used as an independent product, it can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of this application, in essence, or the part that contributes to the prior art, or all or part of the technical solution, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product is stored in a readable storage medium and includes several instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, server, or network device, etc.) to execute all or part of the steps of the methods described in the various embodiments of this application. The aforementioned readable storage medium includes various media capable of storing program code, such as USB flash drives, portable hard drives, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic disks, or optical disks.

[0304] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A communication method, characterized in that, The method includes: Access point (AP) generates trigger frame; Send the trigger frame; The trigger frame includes a public information field or a special user information field, which includes indication information. The indication information is used to indicate the difference between the transmission power of the short training field STF in the trigger-based physical layer protocol data unit (TB PPDU) and the transmission power of the data field in the TB PPDU.

2. A communication method, characterized in that, The method includes: A non-AP STA receives a trigger frame from an access point AP. The trigger frame includes a common information field or a special user information field. The common information field or the special user information field includes indication information, which is used to indicate the difference between the transmission power of the short training field STF and the transmission power of the data field in the trigger-based physical layer protocol data unit (TB PPDU). The non-AP STA sends the STF and data fields in the TB PPDU based on the difference.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The difference includes a ratio, the STF period is 1.6 microseconds (μs), and the ratio is any one of the following: 0.8，0.81，0.85，0.87，0.9。 4. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The difference includes a ratio, the STF period is 0.8 microseconds (μs), and the ratio is any one of the following: 0.75，0.79，0.8，0.81，0.85，0.87，0.9。 5. The method according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The difference is determined based on the discrete bandwidth of the discrete resource unit (DRU) corresponding to the non-AP STA or the size of the DRU corresponding to the non-AP STA; or, The difference is determined based on the size of the conventional resource unit (rRU) corresponding to the non-AP STA.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, The indication information includes a difference, which corresponds to the bandwidth of the trigger frame scheduling; or, The indication information includes N differential values, each of which corresponds to a frequency slice of the trigger frame scheduling, where N is an integer greater than 1.

7. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that, The frequency slices are 80MHz or 160MHz.

8. A communication method, characterized in that, The method includes: The first site generates a Physical Layer Protocol Data Unit (PPDU). The PPDU includes a signaling SIG field, a Short Training Field (STF), and a data field. The SIG field includes indication information, which is used to indicate the difference between the transmission power of the STF and the transmission power of the data field. The first station sends the STF and the data field in the PPDU respectively according to the difference.

9. A communication method, characterized in that, The method includes: The second station receives a Physical Layer Protocol Data Unit (PPDU) from the first station. The PPDU includes a signaling SIG field, a Short Training Field (STF), and a data field. The SIG field includes indication information, which is used to indicate the difference between the transmission power of the STF and the transmission power of the data field. The data field is received based on the difference and the receiving power of the STF.

10. The method according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that, The difference includes a ratio, the STF period is 1.6 microseconds (μs), and the ratio is any one of the following: 0.8，0.81，0.85，0.87，0.9。 11. The method according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that, The difference includes a ratio, the STF period is 0.8 microseconds (μs), and the ratio is any one of the following: 0.75，0.79，0.8，0.81，0.85，0.87，0.9。 12. The method according to any one of claims 8-11, characterized in that, The difference is determined based on the Discrete Resource Unit (DRU) corresponding to the first site or the size of the DRU corresponding to the first site; or, The difference is determined based on the size of the conventional resource unit (rRU) corresponding to the first site.

13. The method according to any one of claims 8-12, characterized in that, The indication information includes a difference, which corresponds to the bandwidth of the trigger frame scheduling; or, The indication information includes N differential values, each of which corresponds to a frequency slice of the trigger frame scheduling, where N is an integer greater than 1.

14. The method according to claim 13, characterized in that, The frequency slices are 80MHz or 160MHz.

15. A communication device, characterized in that, Includes a module for performing the method as described in any one of claims 1-14.

16. A communication device, characterized in that, Includes a processor for performing the method as described in any one of claims 1-14.

17. A communication device, characterized in that, Includes logic circuits and interfaces, wherein the logic circuits and interfaces are coupled; The interface is used for inputting and / or outputting information, and the logic circuit is used for performing the method as described in any one of claims 1-14.

18. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer-readable storage medium is used to store a computer program, which, when executed, performs the method as described in any one of claims 1-14.

19. A computer program product, characterized in that, When the computer program product is executed, the method described in any one of claims 1-14 is performed.

20. A communication system, characterized in that, Includes an AP and a non-AP STA, wherein the AP is used to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1, 3-7, and the non-AP STA is used to perform the method as described in any one of claims 2-7; or includes a first site and a second site, wherein the first site is used to perform the method as described in any one of claims 8, 10-14, and the second site is used to perform the method as described in any one of claims 9-14.

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