Enhanced system impact for carrier aggregation

Abstract

An apparatus is configured to: receive from a network node an indication of whether the apparatus is permitted to use a single receiver chain in carrier aggregation to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers; and configure reception from at least one secondary cell based at least partially on the received indication. An apparatus is also configured to: determine whether a user equipment (UE) is permitted to use a single receiver chain in carrier aggregation to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers, based at least partially on a first frequency band including a serving cell configured for the user equipment and at least one second frequency band including at least one secondary cell configured for the user equipment; and send to the user equipment an indication of whether the user equipment is permitted to use a single receiver chain in carrier aggregation to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers.

Description

Cross-references to related applications

[0001] This application claims priority to EP application No. 25157877.9, filed on February 14, 2025, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0002] The exemplary and non-limiting embodiments generally relate to carrier aggregation, and more specifically, to carrier aggregation for UEs capable of receiving multiple segmented component carriers via a single receiver. Background Technology

[0003] It is known that in carrier aggregation, the UE uses a separate receiver chain for each received component carrier. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The following description of the invention is intended to be illustrative only. It is not intended to limit the scope of the claims.

[0005] According to one aspect, an apparatus includes: at least one processor; and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to at least: receive from a network node an indication of whether the apparatus is permitted to use a single receiver chain in carrier aggregation to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers; and configure reception from at least one secondary cell based at least in part on the received indication.

[0006] According to one aspect, a method includes: receiving from a network node via a user equipment an indication of whether the device is permitted to use a single receiver chain in carrier aggregation to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers; and configuring reception from at least one secondary cell based at least in part on the received indication.

[0007] According to one aspect, an apparatus includes components for performing: receiving from a network node an indication of whether the apparatus is permitted to use a single receiver chain in carrier aggregation to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers; and configuring reception from at least one secondary cell based at least in part on the received indication.

[0008] According to one aspect, a computer-readable medium includes program instructions stored thereon, the program instructions being configured to perform at least the following: causing a user equipment to receive from a network node an indication of whether the device is permitted to use a single receiver chain in carrier aggregation to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers; and configuring reception from at least one secondary cell based at least in part on the received indication.

[0009] According to one aspect, an apparatus includes: at least one processor; and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to at least: determine, at least in part, whether to allow a user equipment to use a single receiver chain in carrier aggregation to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers, based on a first frequency band including a serving cell configured for a user equipment and at least one second frequency band including at least one secondary cell configured for the user equipment; and send to the user equipment an indication as to whether the user equipment is permitted to use a single receiver chain in carrier aggregation to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers.

[0010] According to one aspect, a method includes: determining, at least in part by a network node, whether a user equipment is permitted to use a single receiver chain in carrier aggregation to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers; and sending to the user equipment an indication as to whether the user equipment is permitted to use a single receiver chain in carrier aggregation to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers.

[0011] According to one aspect, an apparatus includes components for performing: determining, at least in part, whether a user equipment is allowed to use a single receiver chain in carrier aggregation to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers, based on a first frequency band including a serving cell configured for a user equipment and at least a second frequency band including at least one secondary cell configured for the user equipment; and sending to the user equipment an indication of whether the user equipment is allowed to use a single receiver chain in carrier aggregation to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers.

[0012] According to one aspect, a computer-readable medium includes program instructions stored thereon for performing at least the following: determining, by a network node, whether to allow a user equipment to use a single receiver chain in carrier aggregation to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers, based at least in part on a first frequency band including a serving cell configured for a user equipment and at least a second frequency band including at least one secondary cell configured for the user equipment; and sending to the user equipment an indication as to whether the user equipment is permitted to use a single receiver chain in carrier aggregation to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers.

[0013] According to one aspect, an apparatus includes: at least one processor; at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to at least: receive a configuration for carrier aggregation from a network node, wherein the configuration includes at least an indication of at least one secondary cell; and configure reception from the at least one secondary cell based at least in part on whether a first frequency band including at least one component carrier of the serving cell and a second frequency band including at least one component carrier of the at least one secondary cell are the same frequency band, and whether the use of a single receiver chain is estimated to negatively affect the reception performance of the apparatus, wherein the apparatus is capable of using a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers.

[0014] According to one aspect, a method includes: receiving configuration for carrier aggregation from a network node via a user equipment, wherein the configuration includes at least an indication of at least one secondary cell; and configuring reception from at least one secondary cell based at least in part on whether a first frequency band including at least one component carrier of the serving cell and a second frequency band including at least one component carrier of at least one secondary cell are the same frequency band, and whether the use of a single receiver chain is estimated to negatively affect the reception performance of the apparatus, wherein the apparatus is capable of using a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers.

[0015] According to one aspect, an apparatus includes components for performing: receiving configuration for carrier aggregation from a network node, wherein the configuration includes at least an indication of at least one secondary cell; and configuring reception from at least one secondary cell based at least in part on whether a first frequency band including at least one component carrier of the serving cell and a second frequency band including at least one component carrier of at least one secondary cell are the same frequency band, and whether the use of a single receiver chain is estimated to negatively affect the reception performance of the apparatus, wherein the apparatus is capable of using a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers.

[0016] According to one aspect, a computer-readable medium includes program instructions stored thereon for performing at least the following: causing a user equipment to receive a configuration for carrier aggregation from a network node, wherein the configuration includes at least an indication of at least one secondary cell; and configuring reception from at least one secondary cell based at least in part on whether a first frequency band including at least one component carrier of the serving cell and a second frequency band including at least one component carrier of at least one secondary cell are the same frequency band, and whether the use of a single receiver chain is estimated to negatively affect the reception performance of the apparatus, wherein the apparatus is capable of using a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers.

[0017] The subject matter of the independent claims is provided in several respects. Other aspects are defined in the dependent claims. Attached Figure Description

[0018] The foregoing aspects and other features are explained in the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0019] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of one possible and non-limiting example system in which exemplary embodiments can be practiced;

[0020] Figure 2A and Figure 2B It is a diagram illustrating the features described in this article;

[0021] Figure 3 ,include Figure 3A and Figure 3B This is a flowchart illustrating the steps described in this article;

[0022] Figure 4 ,include Figure 4A and Figure 4B This is a flowchart illustrating the steps described in this article;

[0023] Figure 5 It is a flowchart illustrating the steps described in this article;

[0024] Figure 6 It is a flowchart illustrating the steps described in this article; and

[0025] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating the steps described in this article. Detailed Implementation

[0026] The abbreviations that may appear in the instruction manual and / or drawings are defined as follows: 3GPP Third Generation Partnership Project 5G (Fifth Generation) 5GC 5G Core Network AMF Access and Mobility Management Functions CA carrier aggregation CC component carrier cRAN Cloud Wireless Access Network CU Central Unit DL downlink DU Distributed Unit eNB (or eNodeB) Evolved NodeB (e.g., LTE base station) EN-DC E-UTRA-NR Dual Connection The en-gNB or En-gNB is the node that provides the UE with the termination of NR user plane and control plane protocols, and acts as a secondary node in the EN-DC. E-UTRA, or Evolved Universal Terrestrial Radio Access, also known as LTE radio access technology. gNB (or gNodeB) is a base station used for 5G / NR; that is, a node that provides NR user plane and control plane protocol termination to the UE and connects to the 5GC via the NG interface. I / F interface L1 Floor 1 LTE Long Term Evolution MAC Media Access Control MME (Mobility Management Entity) ng or NG, next generation ng-eNB or NG-eNB, the next generation of eNB NR New Radio N / W or NW network O-RAN Open Radio Access Network PCell main cell PDCP (Packet Data Convergence Protocol) PHY physical layer RAN (Radio Access Network) RF (Radio Frequency) RLC Wireless Link Control RRC (Radio Resource Control) RRH Remote Radio Head RS reference signal RU radio unit Rx receiver / receiver SCell Auxiliary Community SDAP Service Data Adaptation Protocol SGW Service Gateway SI Research Projects SMF Session Management Function Tx transmitter UE (User Equipment) (e.g., wireless, typically mobile devices) UPF User Plane Functions VNR Virtualization Network Functions

[0027] Go to Figure 1 The figure illustrates a block diagram of one possible and non-limiting example in which the examples can be practiced. User equipment (UE) 110, radio access network (RAN) node 170, and network elements(s) 190 are illustrated. Figure 1In the example, User Equipment (UE) 110 wirelessly communicates with Wireless Network 100. The UE is a wireless device that can access Wireless Network 100. UE 110 includes one or more processors 120, one or more memories 125, and one or more transceivers 130 interconnected via one or more buses 127. Each of the one or more transceivers 130 includes one or more receivers Rx 132 and one or more transmitters Tx 133. The one or more buses 127 may be address, data, or control buses and may include any interconnection mechanism, such as a series of lines on a motherboard or integrated circuit, fiber optic cables, or other optical communication devices. "Circuit" may include dedicated hardware or hardware associated with executable software thereon. One or more transceivers 130 are connected to one or more antennas 128. One or more memories 125 include computer-readable code 123. UE 110 includes a module 140, which includes one or both of components 140-1 and / or 140-2, which may be implemented in various ways. Module 140 can be implemented in hardware as module 140-1, such as as part of one or more processors 120. Module 140-1 can also be implemented as an integrated circuit or via other hardware, such as a programmable gate array. In another example, module 140 can be implemented as module 140-2, which is implemented as computer-readable code 123 and executed by one or more processors 120. For example, one or more memories 125 and computer-readable code 123 can be configured, together with one or more processors 120, to cause user equipment 110 to perform one or more operations as described herein. UE 110 communicates with RAN node 170 via radio link 111.

[0028] In this example, RAN node 170 is a base station that provides access to wireless network 100 by wireless devices such as UE 110. RAN node 170 can be, for example, a base station for 5G (also known as New Radio (NR)). In 5G, RAN node 170 can be an NG-RAN node, which is defined as a gNB or ng-eNB. A gNB is a node that provides NR user plane and control plane protocol termination to the UE and is connected to the 5GC (such as, for example, multiple network elements 190) via an NG interface. An ng-eNB is a node that provides E-UTRA user plane and control plane protocol termination to the UE and is connected to the 5GC via an NG interface. An NG-RAN node can include multiple gNBs, and can also include a central unit (CU) (gNB-CU) 196 and multiple distributed units (DUs) (gNB-DU), where DU 195 is shown. It should be noted that a DU can include or be coupled to a radio unit (RU) and control the RU. The gNB-CU is a logical node that hosts the RRC, SDAP, and PDCP protocols of the gNB or the en-gNB, and controls the operation of one or more gNB-DUs. The gNB-CU terminates the F1 interface connected to the gNB-DU. The F1 interface is illustrated as reference numeral 198, although reference numeral 198 also illustrates the link between remote elements of RAN node 170 and centralized elements of RAN node 170 (such as between gNB-CU 196 and gNB-DU 195). The gNB-DU is a logical node that hosts the RLC, MAC, and PHY layers of the gNB or en-gNB, and its operation is partially controlled by the gNB-CU. One gNB-CU supports one or more cells. A cell is supported by only one gNB-DU. The gNB-DU terminates the F1 interface 198 connected to the gNB-CU. It should be noted that DU 195 is considered to include transceiver 160, for example as part of the RU, but in some examples, transceiver 160 may be part of a separate RU, for example, under the control of DU 195 and connected to DU 195. RAN node 170 may also be an eNB (evolved NodeB) base station for LTE (Long Term Evolution), or any other suitable base station, access point, access node, or node.

[0029] RAN node 170 includes one or more processors 152, one or more memories 155, one or more network interfaces (N / WI / F) 161, and one or more transceivers 160 interconnected via one or more buses 157. Each of the one or more transceivers 160 includes a receiver Rx 162 and a transmitter Tx 163. The one or more transceivers 160 are connected to one or more antennas 158. The one or more memories 155 include computer-readable code 153. CU 196 may include processor(s) 152, memory 155, and network interface 161. It should be noted that DU 195 may also include its own memory(s) and processor(s), and / or other hardware, but these are not shown.

[0030] RAN node 170 includes module 150, which comprises one or both of components 150-1 and / or 150-2. Module 150 can be implemented in various ways. Module 150 can be implemented in hardware as module 150-1, such as as part of one or more processors 152. Module 150-1 can also be implemented as an integrated circuit or via other hardware, such as a programmable gate array. In another example, module 150 can be implemented as module 150-2, which is implemented as computer-readable code 153 and executed by one or more processors 152. For example, one or more memories 155 and computer-readable code 153 are configured, together with one or more processors 152, to cause RAN node 170 to perform one or more operations as described herein. It should be noted that the functionality of module 150 can be distributed, such as being distributed between DU 195 and CU 196, or implemented only in DU 195.

[0031] One or more network interfaces 161 communicate over a network, such as via links 176 and 131. Two or more gNBs 170 may communicate using, for example, link 176. Link 176 may be wired, wireless, or both, and may implement, for example, an Xn interface for 5G, an X2 interface for LTE, or other suitable interfaces for other standards.

[0032] One or more buses 157 may be address, data, or control buses and may include any interconnection mechanism, such as a series of lines on a motherboard or integrated circuit, fiber optic or other optical communication devices, wireless channels, etc. For example, one or more transceivers 160 may be implemented as a Remote Radio Header (RRH) 195 for LTE or a Distributed Unit (DU) 195 for a gNB implementation for 5G, wherein other elements of the RAN node 170 may be physically located in a different location from the RRH / DU, and one or more buses 157 may be partially implemented as, for example, fiber optic cables or other suitable network connections to connect other elements of the RAN node 170 (e.g., Central Unit (CU), gNB-CU) to the RRH / DU 195. Reference numeral 198 also indicates those suitable network links(s).

[0033] It should be noted that the description in this document indicates that a "cell" performs functions, but it should be clear that the equipment forming the cell will perform these functions. A cell constitutes part of a base station. That is, each base station can have multiple cells. For example, for a single carrier frequency and associated bandwidth, there can be three cells, each covering one-third of a 360-degree area, such that the coverage area of ​​a single base station is approximately elliptical or circular. Furthermore, each cell can correspond to a single carrier, and a base station can use multiple carriers. Therefore, if there are three 120-degree cells per carrier and two carriers, the base station has a total of six cells.

[0034] Wireless network 100 may include one or more network elements 190, which may include core network functions and provide connectivity to other networks (such as telephone networks and / or data communication networks (e.g., the Internet)) via one or more links 181. Such core network functions for 5G may include access and mobility management functions (AMF) and / or multiple user plane functions (UPF) and / or multiple session management functions (SMF). Such core network functions for LTE may include MME (Mobility Management Entity) / SGW (Serving Gateway) functions. These are merely illustrative functions that may be supported by network elements 190, and it should be noted that both 5G and LTE functions may be supported. RAN node 170 is coupled to network element 190 via link 131. Link 131 may be implemented, for example, an NG interface for 5G, or an S1 interface for LTE, or other suitable interfaces for other standards. Network element 190 includes one or more processors 175, one or more memories 171, and one or more network interfaces (N / WI / F) 180 interconnected via one or more buses 185. The one or more memories 171 include computer-readable code 173. The one or more memories 171 and the computer-readable code 173 are configured, together with the one or more processors 175, to cause network element 190 to perform one or more operations.

[0035] Wireless network 100 can implement network virtualization, which is the process of combining hardware and software network resources and network functions into a single software-based management entity (virtual network). Network virtualization involves platform virtualization, often combined with resource virtualization. Network virtualization is categorized as external virtualization (combining many networks or parts of networks into virtual units) or internal virtualization (providing network-like functionality to software containers on a single system). For example, a network can be deployed in a telecommunications cloud, where Virtualized Network Functions (VNFs) run on, for example, data center servers. For example, network core functions and / or (multiple) wireless access networks (e.g., CloudRAN, O-RAN, edge cloud) can be virtualized. It should be noted that the virtualized entities resulting from network virtualization are still implemented at some level using hardware (such as processors 152 or 175 and memories 155 and 171), and such virtualized entities also produce technical effects.

[0036] It should also be noted that the operation of the example embodiments of this disclosure may be performed by multiple cooperating devices (e.g., cRAN).

[0037] Computer-readable storage devices 125, 155, and 171 can be of any type suitable for the local technical environment and can be implemented using any suitable data storage technology, such as semiconductor-based memory devices, flash memory, magnetic memory devices and systems, optical memory devices and systems, fixed memory, and removable memory. Computer-readable storage devices 125, 155, and 171 can be components for performing storage functions. Processors 120, 152, and 175 can be of any type suitable for the local technical environment and, as a non-limiting example, can include one or more of the following: general-purpose computers, special-purpose computers, microprocessors, digital signal processors (DSPs), and processors based on multi-core processor architectures. Processors 120, 152, and 175 can be components for performing functions, such as controlling UE 110, RAN node 170, and other functions as described herein.

[0038] Generally, various example embodiments of user equipment 110 may include, but are not limited to, cellular phones (such as smartphones), tablet computers, personal digital assistants (PDAs) with wireless communication capabilities, portable computers with wireless communication capabilities, image capture devices (such as digital cameras with wireless communication capabilities), gaming devices with wireless communication capabilities, music storage and playback devices with wireless communication capabilities, internet devices that allow wireless internet access and browsing, tablet computers with wireless communication capabilities, and portable units or terminals that combine such functions.

[0039] This introduces a suitable and non-limiting technical context for the practice of exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, which will now be described in more detail.

[0040] The features described herein can typically involve segmented carriers. Segmented carriers can be, for example, in-band discontinuous component carriers (e.g., component carriers separated by gaps) used together to provide carrier aggregation (CA). Alternatively, segmented carriers can be non-adjacent component carriers (CCs) that are not connected at the boundaries of a CC. For example, the boundaries of CCs can be separated from each other by, for example, gaps, or CCs can overlap such that the boundaries of CCs are misaligned. Alternatively, segmented carriers can be in-band carriers that are adjacent to each other (i.e., their boundaries are close to each other).

[0041] In carrier aggregation, in addition to the primary cell (PCell), a UE can be configured with one or more secondary / serving cells (SCells). Both PCells and SCells can be considered serving cells. An SCell can be a downlink-only cell and may not be used to carry PUCCH signaling. A PCell can be a serving cell that provides configuration to the UE, such as RRC configuration, PCell configuration, and / or PSCell configuration.

[0042] In this disclosure, the term "serving cell" may refer to a PCell, SCell, PSCell, or any cell providing connectivity or coverage between the UE and at least a portion of the network.

[0043] A new research project (SI) proposal was submitted by a group of operators in 3GPP RAN#102, RP-233374, to estimate the feasibility of using a single receiver (Rx) chain on segmented intra-band blocks in downlink (DL) CAs, while investigating near-far issues and the impact of unwanted transmissions. This proposal is part of the Rel-19 RAN4 work item package discussed in RP-240019. The SI was submitted for approval in RAN#104 in RP-241360 and is now referred to as FS_NR_FR1_Frag_Carrier. The proposed scope regarding R19 segmented carriers in the RAN#104 research project is as follows: "...The purpose of this study is as follows:" - Identify methods for reducing the number of UE Rx chains required (e.g., 1 or 2) for a single DL band with frequency spans ≤100 MHz, considering inter-operator co-location scenarios where the CA combination contains two non-contiguous CCs: -For inter-carrier co-located BS scenarios, which RF requirements can be adjusted, such as existing UE RF requirements, like ACS [RAN4]; - The ability to semi-statically switch hardware resources (i.e., Rx chains) between frequency bands [RAN4, RAN2 – see note 2]; - Up to 6 dB imbalance in DL power spectral density between two discontinuous CCs [RAN4]; - Impact on DL performance [RAN4]; - Components used by the UE to notify the network of new CA configurations that it can support through the adjusted RF requirements [RAN4, RAN2 – see note 2]. Note 1: RAN1 is not expected. Note 2: RAN2 operation will be triggered by RAN4 LS if necessary. Note 3: When the study is completed, consider the specification work to define the core requirements using the identified solutions…

[0044] The exemplary embodiments of this disclosure may or may not involve a UE with a hardware configuration that enables, for example, reception of multiple segmented frequency band blocks via a single RX chain.

[0045] In this disclosure, the terms “single receiver”, “single RX chain”, “single receiver chain”, and “common receiver” are used interchangeably.

[0046] Now for reference Figure 2A and 2B An example of segmented carriers is illustrated. Figure 2A Examples of n25, n66, and n7 in Canada are shown, with different colors indicating different operator spectrum ownership. In the example of n25 (210), a spectrum block (e.g., 5 MHz wide) accessible to two different operators is illustrated. In the example of n7 (220), a spectrum block accessible to three different operators is illustrated. In the example of n66 (230), a spectrum block accessible to four different operators is illustrated. Figure 2B The illustration shows an example of n26 / n5 in Australia, where different colors indicate different operator spectrum ownership. Both n26 and n5 are split into operator frequency blocks belonging to different operators, as well as unallocated blocks in metropolitan (240) and regional (250) areas.

[0047] like Figure 2A and 2B As illustrated in the example, interference sources within a gap can be several channels, and even more than one other operator. When an operator uses a channel allocated adjacent to another operator, it can be considered a source of interference in the gap between channels licensed by the other operator. More than one block in a gap between an operator's blocks can cause interference to that operator, and those blocks within the gap can correspond to multiple other operators. Some information about channel usage can be provided through inter-operator communication / coordination. However, this information is provided at a general level and does not provide any explicit information about instantaneous usage and power levels.

[0048] When defining UE requirements for a UE configured with carrier aggregation, it is currently assumed that the UE uses a separate receiver for each component carrier (CC). This then imposes a limit on the number of CCs the UE can support, for example, based on the number of receiver chains included in the UE. As previously mentioned, SI RP-240019 defines requirements for a UE that allow for different assumptions when more than one CC is received within the frequency band, and where unknown interference sources may exist between the CCs (e.g., in a segmented carrier configuration).

[0049] When discussing segmented carrier aggregation (CA), one will need to consider existing UE CA requirements when examining which UE CA requirements may need to be explicitly defined for CA under the assumption of segmented CA.

[0050] Currently, it is assumed that when a UE is configured with CA, the UE uses a separate receiver for each carrier, at least when the carriers are not in contiguous frequency bands (CCs). UE requirements have been developed based on these assumptions, including UE Reference Sensitivity (REFSENS) requirements. REFSENS relates to the reference sensitivity of the UE used to decode received messages. For example, it can indicate the minimum signal strength required for the UE to decode received messages. REFSENS can be a ratio of the block error rate over a defined time period or sample. REFSENS can indicate the amount of noise received by the UE simultaneously with the received message, while the received message can still be decoded. REFSENS can depend on the bandwidth received by the UE. The UE will have a sensitivity at or below the REFSENS level to pass device conformance test requirements.

[0051] However, the existing UE requirement of having a separate receiver for each CC does not prohibit a UE from using a single receiver for two CCs, as long as the UE still meets the requirements defined for using a separate receiver for each CC (e.g., the received messages can be decoded at an error rate below a threshold). Therefore, the UE is already permitted to use a separate receiver or a single receiver for CA. This can be done by the UE without notifying the network of such a change; the change between using a single or (multiple) separate receiver for receiving CCs is agnostic to the network. However, this is permitted only if and only if the UE requirement does not change or is permitted to change; therefore, the requirements applicable when using a separate receiver for each CC also apply to the case of using a single receiver for two CCs.

[0052] The discussion of segmented carriers is different, and the above approach has been altered. The reason for this is that, during the study of how to define segmented carriers, it was proposed that when a single receiver is used to receive segmented CCs, the UE RF requirements for the receiver in the specification need to be relaxed.

[0053] Additionally, it is assumed that the UE will indicate to the network that the UE is capable of supporting segmented carrier CA in certain frequency band combinations supported by the UE. Therefore, the current assumption is that the UE indicates this support, and if the network configures the frequency band combination, the UE is allowed to apply a single receiver for CA.

[0054] In this disclosure, the frequency band may include the time band.

[0055] One drawback of applying the segmented carrier approach is that using a single receiver for receiving CC (CC) relaxes the UE REFSENS requirements, making UE REFSENS degradation anticipated. This degradation negatively impacts overall system performance. However, there are cases where the network wishes to avoid this degradation.

[0056] In an example embodiment, the network may instruct a UE that supports "segmented carrier" capability and is configured with a band combination (where the UE supports "segmented carrier" use) whether the network allows the UE to use a single receiver when receiving CC in the band combination.

[0057] In the example implementation, the instruction can only be applied if using a single receiver does not degrade UE performance (e.g., REFSENS).

[0058] Now for reference Figure 3 ,include Figure 3A and Figure 3B A flowchart illustrating an example of signaling between the UE and the network using a single Rx chain for more than one CC is shown. The network may include a PCell and one or more PSCells or SCells. PCells, PSCells, and / or SCells may be provided as networks, network nodes, base stations, gNBs, etc. Those skilled in the art will understand that one, some, or all of these steps may occur in a different order or simultaneously; some steps may be omitted; some steps may be added; and / or some steps may be substituted for different steps with similar effects. Other deployment examples may be possible.

[0059] At point 305, you can... Figure 3The detailed settings used in the example are shown. For example, the UE can support / be allowed to use a single Rx (or a separate Rx) for CA in band n25 (2F). The UE can receive a maximum of 2 CCs per single Rx. The network may not currently know whether the UE is using a single or separate Rx chain. Additionally, for n41 (2A) or n41 (3A), the UE can support 2 or 3 CC CAs using a separate Rx, and using 1 Rx may not be allowed. The UE can receive a maximum of 3 CCs per single Rx. It can be assumed that the UE will use a separate Rx for each CC. At 310, the UE can be in connected mode. At 315, the UE can indicate to the network that the UE is capable of and supports a "segmented carrier" configuration, i.e., the UE is capable of receiving more than 1 CC in band 25 using only 1 receiver (but can also support using more than 1 receiver to receive more than 1 CC). Additionally, in this example, the UE can use a separate receiver band CC to support up to 3 CCs in band 41.

[0060] In the first option (320), at 325, the UE can have a serving cell (e.g., PCell) on a carrier in band n25, and the SCell can be added on the same band. At 330, the network can configure a measurement configuration for the UE, instructing the UE to measure other carriers in band n25. Based on this configuration, the UE can initiate a measurement. At 335, the UE can send a measurement report to the network including results from cell 1, which in this example is a cell on another carrier in band n25. Based on this measurement report, the network can decide to configure CA for the UE using the current serving PCell and cell 1 as the SCell.

[0061] In the example embodiment, a network indication may be provided to indicate to the UE whether it is permitted to use or apply a single receiver for receiving two CCs in the CA configuration. An example is illustrated at 340. At 345, the NW may use cell 1 as an SCell to configure the CA for the UE. Cell 1 can be added as an SCell. It can be noted that the SCell configuration can be provided by a PCell or PSCell. Alternatively, the network may, for example, indicate in the SCell configuration that the UE is not permitted to apply a single receiver for receiving both the PCell and the SCell (i.e., the cell within band n25). It can be noted that the PCell or PSCell can be used to configure the UE in the CA.

[0062] In an example embodiment, the NW may determine that the UE is not allowed to apply a single RX to multiple CCs because the PCell and SCell configured for the UE are in the same frequency band. Alternatively, the NW decision may be based at least in part on UE capability information, measurement reports, the number of Rx chains included in the UE, feedback received from the UE, the frequency bandwidth of the CCs, etc.

[0063] In example embodiments, such network indications can be conditional; for example, if applying a single receiver has a negative impact on UE reception performance (e.g., REFSENS), then an indication that using a single RX for receiving multiple CCs is "not permitted" may only apply or be applied by the UE. If the UE receives a network indication that a single RX is not permitted and determines that applying a single receiver will not have a negative impact on UE performance (e.g., no impact on REFSENS), then the UE can determine to use a single receiver for receiving multiple CCs, even if the network indication states that such behavior is not permitted. However, if the UE receives a network indication that a single RX is not permitted and determines that applying a single receiver will negatively impact UE performance (e.g., REFSENS), then the UE can use a separate RX for each CC. Network indications can be conditional based on the UE's configuration; the UE can be configured to treat network indications as conditional or required / unconditional.

[0064] In another example embodiment, the network indication can be unconditional, such that the EU must configure the CA according to the network indication.

[0065] At 350, the UE can add an SCell using separate receivers for PCell and SCell. This can be based at least in part on network indications that a single Rx is not allowed. At 355, CA can be configured.

[0066] In the second option (360), the PCell and SCell can be in different frequency bands, where the two SCells can be in the same frequency band (e.g., frequency band n25). At 365, the serving cell (PCell) can be on a carrier in frequency band n41. At 370, the network can configure the UE via a measurement configuration that instructs the UE to measure other carriers in frequency band n25. Based on this configuration, the UE can initiate a measurement. At 375, the UE can send a measurement report to the network including results from cell 1, which can be a cell on a carrier in frequency band n25. Based on this measurement report, the network can decide to use the current serving PCell and cell 1 as SCells to configure CA for the UE. In the same measurement report or another measurement report, the UE can report measurement results from another cell (cell 2) on another carrier in frequency band n25.

[0067] In the example shown at 380, the NW indication can indicate that the UE is allowed to use a single Rx to receive multiple CCs. At 385, the network can use Cell 1 and Cell 2 as SCells to configure CA for the UE. Cell 1 and Cell 2 can be added as SCells. Alternatively, the network can, for example, indicate in the SCell configuration that the UE is allowed to apply a single receiver for receiving SCell 1 and SCell 2 (e.g., Cell 1 and Cell 2 within band n25).

[0068] In an example embodiment, the NW may determine, at least in part, the single receiver that allows the use of a CC to receive both SCells, based on the fact that the two SCells are located in different frequency bands than the PCell. Alternatively, the NW decision may be based, at least in part, on UE capability information, measurement reports, the number of Rx chains included in the UE, feedback received from the UE, the width of the CC, etc.

[0069] In an example embodiment, the NW indication can be conditional; for example, an indication that a single receiver is “allowed” can only be applied if applying a single receiver does not negatively affect the UE reception performance (e.g., REFSENS) in band n25.

[0070] In another example embodiment, the NW indication can be unconditional (e.g., the UE can apply the NW indication regardless of whether the application of a single receiver will negatively affect the UE reception performance relative to, for example, REFSENS).

[0071] At 390, the UE can add an SCell using a single receiver for SCells (cell 1 and cell 2). However, for PCells, the UE can use a separate receiver (i.e., a receiver that only receives a single CC).

[0072] At point 395, CA can be configured.

[0073] Although Figure 3 The illustration shows an NW (Navigate on Message) indicating whether a UE is permitted to use a single receiver for multiple CC reception via RRC reconfiguration messages (345, 385). This indication is not limited to RRC signaling. Optionally, the NW indication can be sent to the UE separately using other message formats, or it can be sent as part of the PCell configuration, etc. In the example embodiment, the NW indication indicating whether the UE is permitted or not permitted to use a single receiver for multiple CC reception can be sent via MAC CE or DCI signaling.

[0074] The technical effect of the example embodiments of this disclosure related to network indications regarding whether a single receiver is permitted by the UE can be to give the network the flexibility to determine whether the UE is permitted to use a single receiver chain for receiving CA. If the network knows (e.g., based on UE capability information) that the UE has a backup receiver chain and wants to ensure that UE performance (e.g., REFSENS) is not degraded by using a single receiver, the network can indicate to the UE that it is not permitted to use a single receiver for receiving some configured CC. As previously stated, the NW indication of not applying a single receiver can be conditional, such that if the UE applies a single receiver, such a single receiver may not degrade UE reception performance (e.g., REFSENS) compared to using a separate receiver.

[0075] Now for reference Figure 4 ,include Figure 4A and Figure 4B A flowchart illustrating an example of signaling between the UE and the network using a single Rx chain for more than one CC is presented. Those skilled in the art will understand that one, some, or all of these steps may occur in a different order or simultaneously; some steps may be omitted; some steps may be added; and / or some steps may substitute for different steps with similar effects. Other deployment examples may be possible.

[0076] At point 405, you can... Figure 4 The detailed settings used in the example are shown. For example, the UE may support / be allowed to use a single Rx (or a separate Rx) for CA in band n25 (2F). The UE can receive a maximum of 2 CCs per single Rx. The network may not currently know whether the UE is using a single or separate Rx chain. Additionally, for n41 (2A) or n41 (3A), the UE may support 2 or 3 CC CAs using a separate Rx, and using 1 Rx may not be allowed. The UE can receive a maximum of 3 CCs per single Rx. It can be assumed that the UE will use a separate Rx for each CC. At 410, the UE may be in connected mode. At 415, the UE may indicate to the network that the UE is capable of and supports a “segmented carrier” configuration, i.e., the UE is capable of receiving more than 1 CC in band 25 using only 1 receiver (but may also support using more than 1 receiver to receive more than 1 CC). Additionally, in this example, the UE may use a separate receiver band CC to support up to 3 CCs in band 41.

[0077] In the first option (420), both the PCell and SCell can be in the same frequency band (e.g., frequency band n25). At 425, the UE can have a serving cell (e.g., PCell) on a carrier in frequency band n25. At 430, the network can configure the UE via a measurement configuration that instructs the UE to measure other carriers in frequency band n25. Based on this configuration, the UE can initiate a measurement. At 435, the UE can send a measurement report to the network including results from cell 1, which can be a cell on another carrier in frequency band n25. Based on this measurement report, the network can decide to use the current serving PCell and cell 1 as the SCell to configure CA for the UE.

[0078] In an example embodiment, the UE can determine whether to apply a single RX receiver for multiple CCs, for example at 440. At 445, the network can use cell 1 as the SCell to configure the UE with an SCell (e.g., add an SCell). Since the added SCell is in band n25, and the PCell is also in band n25, the UE may not use a single receiver for operating / receiving two CCs. In an alternative example embodiment, such an implementation may be conditional, such that if applying a single receiver has or is expected to have a negative impact on the UE's reception performance (e.g., REFSENS), the UE may simply determine not to use a single receiver for receiving two CCs.

[0079] In the example embodiment, the UE may also determine whether to use a single receiver for multiple CC reception based on the UE's capabilities, the UE's expected future needs for the Rx chain, channel measurements, etc.

[0080] At 450, the UE can use separate receivers for the PCell and SCell to add the SCell. In another example, if the UE determines that the PCell and SCell can be received using a single receiver, the UE can apply the single receiver (e.g., if the UE use of the single receiver is conditional and the single receiver is not expected to have a negative impact on the UE reception performance such as REFSENS).

[0081] At position 455, CA can be configured.

[0082] In the second option (460), the PCell and SCell can be in different frequency bands, and the two SCells can be in the same frequency band (e.g., frequency band n25). At 465, the serving cell (PCell) can be on a carrier in frequency band n41. At 470, the network can configure the UE via a measurement configuration that instructs the UE to measure other carriers in frequency band n25. Based on this configuration, the UE can initiate a measurement. At 475, the UE can send a measurement report to the network including results from cell 1, which can be a cell on a carrier in frequency band n25. Based on this measurement report, the network can decide to use the current serving PCell and cell 1 as SCells to configure CA for the UE. In the same measurement report or another measurement report, the UE can report measurement results from another cell (cell 2) on another carrier in frequency band n25.

[0083] In the example, the UE can determine whether to apply a single RX reception for multiple CCs, for example at 480. At 485, the network can use Cell 1 and Cell 2 as SCells to configure CA for the UE. Cell 1 and Cell 2 can be added as SCells. Since the added SCells are located in a different frequency band (frequency band n25) than the PCell (frequency band n41), the UE can use a single receiver for operating / receiving two CCs in frequency band n25 (SCell). In an alternative example embodiment, such an implementation can be conditional, such that the use of a single receiver for multiple CC reception can only be applied if applying a single receiver will not negatively impact the UE's reception performance (e.g., REFSENS).

[0084] At 490, the UE can add an SCell using separate receivers for the PCell and SCell. For each SCell (in band n25), the UE can use a single receiver chain. In an alternative example, if the UE determines that an SCell cannot be received using a single receiver, the UE can apply separate receivers for receiving each SCell (scell1 and scell2). For example, the UE can determine that an SCell cannot be received using a single receiver based on measurements or levels of interference within the gap.

[0085] In the example embodiment, the UE may also determine whether to use a single receiver for multiple CC reception based on the UE's capabilities, the UE's expected future needs for its Rx chain, channel measurements, etc.

[0086] At 495, CA can be configured.

[0087] The technical effect of the example embodiments of this disclosure related to the UE's determination of whether to apply separate receivers for multiple CC receptions can be to support granting more responsibility to the UE while the UE is compelled to follow supported aspects during SCell configuration.

[0088] Optionally, the syntax for specifying the combination of segmented additional frequency bands can be used by the UE and / or the network (e.g., Figure 3 and Figure 4 (2F, 2A, 3A in the example). Regardless of whether such syntax is used, the example embodiments of this disclosure are applicable.

[0089] Alternatively, the example embodiments of this disclosure can be used when the UE has full control over the actual radio frequency (RF) configuration used. This means that if the specification does not explicitly specify how to configure the use of segmented carriers, or if the UE is on the boundary of the maximum RF CA combination capability, the UE can see the benefits of starting to save resources by applying segmented carrier configuration.

[0090] The example embodiments can be used in the context of 5G, but are not limited to such network technologies; the example embodiments of this disclosure can also be applied to the context of other existing or future technologies.

[0091] Figure 5 The illustration depicts potential steps of example method 500. Example method 500 may include: receiving from a network node an indication of whether a user equipment is permitted to use a single receiver chain in carrier aggregation to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers, 510; and configuring reception from at least one secondary cell, 520, based at least in part on the received indication. Example method 500 may be performed, for example, by a UE.

[0092] Figure 6 The illustration depicts potential steps of Example Method 600. Example Method 600 may include: determining, at least in part, whether to allow a user equipment to use a single receiver chain in carrier aggregation to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers, based on a first frequency band including a serving cell configured for the user equipment and at least one second frequency band including at least one secondary cell configured for the user equipment, 610; and sending an indication to the user equipment whether the user equipment is permitted to use a single receiver chain in carrier aggregation to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers, 620. Example Method 600 may be performed, for example, by a network, network node, base station, gNB, etc.

[0093] Figure 7The illustration depicts potential steps of example method 700. Example method 700 may include: receiving configuration for carrier aggregation from a network node via a user equipment, wherein the configuration includes at least an indication of at least one secondary cell, 710; and configuring reception from at least one secondary cell based at least in part on whether a first frequency band including at least one component carrier of the serving cell and a second frequency band including at least one component carrier of at least one secondary cell are the same frequency band, and whether the use of a single receiver chain is estimated to negatively impact the reception performance of the user equipment, wherein the user equipment is capable of receiving at least two non-adjacent component carriers using a single receiver chain, 720. Example method 700 may be performed, for example, by a UE.

[0094] According to one example embodiment, an apparatus may include: an apparatus comprising: at least one processor; and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to at least: receive from a network node an indication of whether the apparatus is permitted to use a single receiver chain in carrier aggregation to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers; and configure reception from at least one secondary cell based at least in part on the received indication. The at least two non-adjacent component carriers may include at least one of the following: at least two non-contiguous component carriers, at least two adjacent inter-band component carriers, or at least two intra-band component carriers. The indication of whether the apparatus is permitted to use a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers may be received using at least one of the following: radio resource control signaling, media access control signaling, downlink control information signaling, or configuration for carrier aggregation. The network node may include a network node serving the apparatus in carrier aggregation. The received indication may include an indication that the apparatus is permitted to use a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers. The frequency band including the component carrier of the serving cell may be at least partially different from the frequency band including at least one component carrier of at least one secondary cell, wherein at least two non-adjacent component carriers may include the component carrier of the serving cell and at least one component carrier of at least one secondary cell. Reception from at least one secondary cell may include an example apparatus further configured to: configure a single receiver chain for receiving at least one first component carrier of the first cell and at least one second component carrier of the at least one secondary cell, wherein the at least two non-adjacent component carriers may include at least one first component carrier and at least one second component carrier. The received indication may include an indication that the apparatus is not permitted to use a single receiver chain for receiving at least two non-adjacent component carriers. The same frequency band may include the component carrier of the serving cell and at least one component carrier of the at least one secondary cell, wherein the at least two non-adjacent component carriers may include the component carrier of the serving cell and at least one component carrier of the at least one secondary cell. Configuring reception from at least one secondary cell may include an example apparatus further configured to: configure a first receiver chain for receiving at least one first component carrier of the serving cell; and configure a second receiver chain for receiving at least one second component carrier of the at least one secondary cell, wherein the at least two non-adjacent component carriers may include at least one first component carrier and at least one second component carrier.The received indication may include a condition indication, wherein configuring reception from at least one secondary cell may include the example apparatus further being configured to: estimate whether using a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers will negatively affect the reception performance of the apparatus; in response to the estimate that using a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers will negatively affect the reception performance of the apparatus, configure a first receiver chain to receive at least one first component carrier of a first cell, and configure a second receiver chain to receive at least one second component carrier of at least one secondary cell, wherein the at least two non-adjacent component carriers may include at least one first component carrier and at least one secondary component carrier; and in response to the estimate that using a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers will not negatively affect the reception performance of the apparatus, configure a single receiver chain to receive at least one first component carrier of the first cell and at least one second component carrier of at least one secondary cell. The example apparatus may also be configured to: transmit to a network node the apparatus's capability to receive more than one non-adjacent component carrier using a single receiver chain. The apparatus may be a user equipment.

[0095] According to an example embodiment, an example method may be provided, comprising: receiving from a network node an indication via a user equipment (UE) whether the equipment is permitted to use a single receiver chain in carrier aggregation to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers; and configuring reception from at least one secondary cell based at least in part on the received indication. The at least two non-adjacent component carriers may include at least one of the following: at least two non-contiguous component carriers, at least two adjacent inter-band component carriers, or at least two intra-band component carriers. The indication whether the UE is permitted to use a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers may be received using at least one of the following: radio resource control signaling, media access control signaling, downlink control information signaling, or configuration for carrier aggregation. The network node may include the network node serving the UE in the carrier aggregation. The received indication may include an indication that the UE is permitted to use a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers. The frequency band including the component carrier of the serving cell may be at least partially different from the frequency band including at least one component carrier of at least one secondary cell, wherein at least two non-adjacent component carriers may include the component carrier of the serving cell and at least one component carrier of at least one secondary cell. Configuration for receiving from at least one secondary cell may include configuring a single receiver chain for receiving at least one first component carrier of the first cell and at least one second component carrier of the at least one secondary cell, wherein the at least two non-adjacent component carriers may include at least one first component carrier and at least one second component carrier. The received indication may include an indication that the user equipment is not permitted to use a single receiver chain for receiving at least two non-adjacent component carriers. The same frequency band may include the component carrier of the serving cell and at least one component carrier of at least one secondary cell, wherein the at least two non-adjacent component carriers may include the component carrier of the serving cell and at least one component carrier of at least one secondary cell. Configuration for receiving from at least one secondary cell may include configuring a first receiver chain for receiving at least one first component carrier of the serving cell; and configuring a second receiver chain for receiving at least one second component carrier of at least one secondary cell, wherein the at least two non-adjacent component carriers may include at least one first component carrier and at least one second component carrier.The received indication may include a condition indication, wherein the configuration for reception from at least one secondary cell may include: estimating whether using a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers will negatively impact the reception performance of the user equipment; in response to the estimate that using a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers will negatively impact the reception performance of the user equipment, configuring a first receiver chain to receive at least one first component carrier of the first cell and configuring a second receiver chain to receive at least one second component carrier of at least one secondary cell, wherein the at least two non-adjacent component carriers may include at least one first component carrier and at least one secondary component carrier; and in response to the estimate that using a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers will not negatively impact the reception performance of the user equipment, configuring a single receiver chain to receive at least one first component carrier of the first cell and at least one second component carrier of at least one secondary cell. The example method may also include: transmitting to a network node the capability of the user equipment to receive more than one non-adjacent component carrier using a single receiver chain.

[0096] According to one example embodiment, an apparatus may include: a circuit system configured to perform: receiving from a network node via a user equipment an indication of whether the apparatus is permitted to use a single receiver chain in carrier aggregation to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers; and a circuit system configured to perform: configuring reception from at least one secondary cell based at least in part on the received indication.

[0097] According to one example embodiment, an apparatus may include: a processing circuitry system; and a memory circuitry system including computer-readable code, the memory circuitry system and the computer-readable code being configured, together with the processing circuitry system, to enable the apparatus to: receive from a network node an indication of whether the apparatus is permitted to use a single receiver chain in carrier aggregation to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers; and configure reception from at least one secondary cell based at least in part on the received indication.

[0098] As used in this application, the terms "circuit system" or "component" may refer to one or more or all of the following: (a) a hardware circuit implementation only (such as an implementation in an analog, digital, and / or quantum circuit system only) and (b) a combination of (multiple) hardware circuits and software, such as (if applicable): (i) a combination of (multiple) analog, digital, and / or quantum hardware circuits with software / firmware; and (ii) any or all portions of (multiple) hardware processors having software (including (multiple) digital and / or quantum processors), and (multiple) memories, which work together to enable a device (such as a mobile phone, computing device, or server) to perform various functions; and (c) any or all portions of (multiple) hardware circuits (such as (multiple) microprocessors, (multiple) processors, and / or (multiple) quantum processors) that require software (e.g., firmware) to operate, but the software may be absent when operation does not require it. This definition of circuit system applies to all uses of the term in this application, including in any claim. As another example, as used herein, the term "circuit system" also encompasses only the implementation of hardware circuitry or a processor (or multiple processors) or portions thereof and their accompanying software and / or firmware. The term "circuit system" also encompasses, for example and if applicable to elements of a particular claim, baseband integrated circuits or processor integrated circuits for mobile devices or similar integrated circuits in servers, cellular network devices, or other computing or network devices.

[0099] According to one example embodiment, an apparatus may include components for: receiving from a network node an indication of whether the apparatus is permitted to use a single receiver chain in carrier aggregation to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers; and configuring reception from at least one secondary cell based at least in part on the received indication. The at least two non-adjacent component carriers may include at least one of the following: at least two non-contiguous component carriers, at least two adjacent inter-band component carriers, or at least two intra-band component carriers. The indication of whether the apparatus is permitted to use a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers may be received using at least one of the following: radio resource control signaling, media access control signaling, downlink control information signaling, or configuration for carrier aggregation. The network node may include a network node serving the apparatus in carrier aggregation. The received indication may include an indication that the apparatus is permitted to use a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers. The frequency band of the component carriers including the serving cell may be at least in part different from the frequency band of at least one component carrier including at least one secondary cell, wherein the at least two non-adjacent component carriers may include the component carriers of the serving cell and at least one component carrier of at least one secondary cell. Components configured to configure reception from at least one secondary cell may include components configured to: configure a single receiver chain for receiving at least one first component carrier of a first cell and at least one second component carrier of at least one secondary cell, wherein at least two non-adjacent component carriers may include at least one first component carrier and at least one second component carrier. The received indication may include an indication that the apparatus is not permitted to use a single receiver chain for receiving at least two non-adjacent component carriers. The same frequency band may include component carriers of the serving cell and at least one component carrier of at least one secondary cell, wherein at least two non-adjacent component carriers may include component carriers of the serving cell and at least one component carrier of at least one secondary cell. Components configured to configure reception from at least one secondary cell may include components configured to: configure a first receiver chain for receiving at least one first component carrier of the serving cell; and configure a second receiver chain for receiving at least one second component carrier of at least one secondary cell, wherein at least two non-adjacent component carriers may include at least one first component carrier and at least one second component carrier.The received indication may include a condition indication, wherein the component configured to configure reception from at least one secondary cell may include components configured to: estimate whether using a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers will negatively affect the reception performance of the device; in response to the estimate that using a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers will negatively affect the reception performance of the device, configure a first receiver chain to receive at least one first component carrier of the first cell and configure a second receiver chain to receive at least one second component carrier of at least one secondary cell, wherein the at least two non-adjacent component carriers may include at least one first component carrier and at least one secondary component carrier; and in response to the estimate that using a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers will not negatively affect the reception performance of the device, configure a single receiver chain to receive at least one first component carrier of the first cell and at least one second component carrier of at least one secondary cell. The component may also be configured to: transmit to a network node the device's capability to receive more than one non-adjacent component carrier using a single receiver chain. The device may be a user equipment.

[0100] Processors, memory, and / or example algorithms (which may be encoded as instructions, programs, or code) may be provided as example components for providing or causing the execution of operations.

[0101] According to one example embodiment, a (non-transitory) computer-readable medium includes instructions stored thereon that, when executed by at least one processor, cause at least one processor to: receive from a network node via a user equipment an indication of whether the user equipment is permitted to use a single receiver chain in carrier aggregation to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers; and configure reception from at least one secondary cell based at least in part on the received indication.

[0102] According to one example embodiment, a (non-transitory) computer-readable medium includes program instructions stored thereon for performing at least the following: causing a user equipment to receive, via a network node, an indication of whether the user equipment is permitted to use a single receiver chain in carrier aggregation to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers; and configuring reception from at least one secondary cell based at least in part on the received indication. The at least two non-adjacent component carriers may include at least one of the following: at least two non-contiguous component carriers, at least two adjacent inter-band component carriers, or at least two intra-band component carriers. The indication of whether the user equipment is permitted to use a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers may be received using at least one of the following: radio resource control signaling, media access control signaling, downlink control information signaling, or configuration for carrier aggregation. The network node may include the network node serving the user equipment in carrier aggregation. The received indication may include an indication that the user equipment is permitted to use a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers. The frequency band including the component carrier of the serving cell may be at least partially different from the frequency band including at least one component carrier of at least one secondary cell, wherein at least two non-adjacent component carriers may include the component carrier of the serving cell and at least one component carrier of at least one secondary cell. Program instructions stored thereon for configuring reception from at least one secondary cell may include program instructions for executing a single receiver chain for receiving at least one first component carrier of the first cell and at least one second component carrier of the at least one secondary cell, wherein the at least two non-adjacent component carriers may include at least one first component carrier and at least one second component carrier. Received indications may include indications that the user equipment is not permitted to use a single receiver chain for receiving at least two non-adjacent component carriers. The same frequency band may include the component carrier of the serving cell and at least one component carrier of at least one secondary cell, wherein the at least two non-adjacent component carriers may include the component carrier of the serving cell and at least one component carrier of at least one secondary cell. The program instructions stored thereon for performing the configuration of receiving from at least one secondary cell may include program instructions for performing the following: configuring a first receiver chain for receiving at least one first component carrier of the serving cell; and configuring a second receiver chain for receiving at least one second component carrier of at least one secondary cell, wherein at least two non-adjacent component carriers may include at least one first component carrier and at least one second component carrier.The received indication may include a condition indication, wherein program instructions stored thereon for performing configuration of reception from at least one secondary cell may include program instructions for performing the following: estimating whether using a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers will negatively affect the reception performance of the user equipment; in response to the estimation that using a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers will negatively affect the reception performance of the user equipment, configuring a first receiver chain to receive at least one first component carrier of the first cell, and configuring a second receiver chain to receive at least one second component carrier of at least one secondary cell, wherein the at least two non-adjacent component carriers may include at least one first component carrier and at least one secondary component carrier; and in response to the estimation that using a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers will not negatively affect the reception performance of the user equipment, configuring a single receiver chain to receive at least one first component carrier of the first cell and at least one second component carrier of at least one secondary cell. The example computer-readable medium may also include program instructions stored thereon for performing the following: causing a network node to transmit the capability of the user equipment to receive more than one non-adjacent component carrier using a single receiver chain.

[0103] According to one example embodiment, a machine-readable (non-transient) program storage device may be provided, which tangibly embodies machine-executable instructions for performing operations including: causing a user equipment to receive from a network node an indication of whether the user equipment is permitted to use a single receiver chain in carrier aggregation to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers; and configuring reception from at least one secondary cell based at least in part on the received indication.

[0104] According to one example embodiment, a (non-transient) computer-readable medium includes instructions that, when executed by an apparatus, cause the apparatus to perform at least the following: receive from a network node an indication via a user equipment whether the user equipment is permitted to use a single receiver chain in carrier aggregation to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers; and configure reception from at least one secondary cell based at least in part on the received indication.

[0105] According to one example embodiment, a computer-implemented system includes: at least one processor and at least one (non-transitory) memory storing instructions, which, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the system to at least: receive, via a user equipment, an indication from a network node whether the user equipment is permitted to use a single receiver chain in carrier aggregation to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers; and configure reception from at least one secondary cell based at least in part on the received indication.

[0106] According to one example embodiment, a computer-implemented system includes: components for receiving, via a user equipment, an indication from a network node whether the user equipment is permitted to use a single receiver chain in carrier aggregation to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers; and components for configuring reception from at least one secondary cell based at least in part on the received indication.

[0107] According to one example embodiment, an apparatus includes: at least one processor; and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to at least: determine, at least in part, whether to allow a user equipment to use a single receiver chain in carrier aggregation to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers; and send to the user equipment an indication of whether the user equipment is permitted to use a single receiver chain in carrier aggregation to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers, based on at least a first frequency band including a serving cell configured for a user equipment and at least one second frequency band including at least one secondary cell configured for the user equipment. The example apparatus may also be configured to: configure a serving cell and at least one secondary cell for the user equipment. Whether to allow the user equipment to use a single receiver chain in carrier aggregation to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers may also be determined based on at least one of the following: the user equipment's capabilities, or feedback received from the user equipment. The at least two non-adjacent component carriers may include at least one of the following: at least two non-contiguous component carriers, at least two adjacent inter-band component carriers, or at least two intra-band component carriers. An indication of whether a user equipment (UE) is permitted to use a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers can be transmitted using at least one of the following: radio resource control signaling, media access control signaling, downlink control information signaling, or a configuration for carrier aggregation. The apparatus can be configured to serve a cell for the UE in carrier aggregation. The indication of whether a UE is permitted to use a single receiver chain may include: an indication that the UE is permitted to use a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers based at least partially on a first frequency band that is at least partially different from at least one second frequency band. The indication of whether a UE is permitted to use a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers may include: an indication that the UE is not permitted to use a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers based at least partially on a first frequency band that is the same as at least one second frequency band. The indication of whether a UE is permitted to use a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers may include: an indication at least partially conditionally based on whether the use of a single receiver chain is estimated to negatively impact the UE's reception performance. The example apparatus can also be configured to receive from the UE the UE's capability to use a single receiver chain to receive more than one non-adjacent component carrier. At least two non-adjacent component carriers may include the component carrier of the serving cell and at least one component carrier of the secondary cell.

[0108] According to an example embodiment, an example method may be provided, comprising: determining, at least in part by a network node, whether a user equipment (UE) is permitted to use a single receiver chain in carrier aggregation to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers; and sending to the UE an indication of whether the UE is permitted to use a single receiver chain in carrier aggregation to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers. The example method may further comprise: configuring a serving cell and at least one secondary cell for the UE. Whether the UE is permitted to use a single receiver chain in carrier aggregation to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers may also be determined based on at least one of the following: the UE's capabilities, or feedback received from the UE. The at least two non-adjacent component carriers may include at least one of the following: at least two non-contiguous component carriers, at least two adjacent inter-band component carriers, or at least two intra-band component carriers. Indications regarding whether a user equipment (UE) is permitted to use a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers can be transmitted using at least one of the following: radio resource control signaling, media access control signaling, downlink control information signaling, or configuration for carrier aggregation. Network nodes can be configured to serve a cell for the UE in carrier aggregation. Indications regarding whether a UE is permitted to use a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers may include: an indication that the network node is permitted to use a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers at least partially based on a first frequency band that is at least partially different from at least one second frequency band. Indications regarding whether a UE is permitted to use a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers may include: an indication that the network node is not permitted to use a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers at least partially based on the first frequency band being the same as at least one second frequency band. Indications regarding whether a UE is permitted to use a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers may include: an indication at least partially conditionally based on whether the use of a single receiver chain is estimated to negatively impact the UE's reception performance. The example method may also include receiving from the user equipment the ability of the user equipment to receive more than one non-adjacent component carrier using a single receiver chain. The at least two non-adjacent component carriers may include component carriers of the serving cell and component carriers of at least one secondary cell.

[0109] According to one example embodiment, an apparatus may include: a circuit system configured to perform: determining, at least in part, via a network node, whether a user equipment is allowed to use a single receiver chain in carrier aggregation to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers; and a circuit system configured to perform: sending an indication to the user equipment whether the user equipment is allowed to use a single receiver chain in carrier aggregation to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers.

[0110] According to one example embodiment, an apparatus may include: a processing circuitry system; and a memory circuitry system including computer-readable code, the memory circuitry system and the computer-readable code being configured, together with the processing circuitry system, to enable the apparatus to: determine, at least in part, whether to allow a user equipment to use a single receiver chain in carrier aggregation to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers, based on a first frequency band including a serving cell configured for a user equipment and at least a second frequency band including at least one secondary cell configured for the user equipment; and to send to the user equipment an indication as to whether the user equipment is permitted to use a single receiver chain in carrier aggregation to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers.

[0111] According to one example embodiment, an apparatus may include components for: determining, at least in part, whether a user equipment is allowed to use a single receiver chain in carrier aggregation to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers, based on a first frequency band including a serving cell configured for a user equipment and at least one second frequency band including at least one secondary cell configured for the user equipment; and sending an indication to the user equipment whether the user equipment is allowed to use a single receiver chain in carrier aggregation to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers. The components may also be configured to: configure a serving cell and at least one secondary cell for the user equipment. Whether a user equipment is allowed to use a single receiver chain in carrier aggregation to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers may also be determined based on at least one of the following: the user equipment's capabilities, or feedback received from the user equipment. The at least two non-adjacent component carriers may include at least one of the following: at least two non-contiguous component carriers, at least two adjacent inter-band component carriers, or at least two intra-band component carriers. An indication of whether a user equipment (UE) is permitted to use a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers can be transmitted using at least one of the following: radio resource control signaling, media access control signaling, downlink control information signaling, or a configuration for carrier aggregation. The apparatus can be configured to serve a cell for the UE in carrier aggregation. The indication of whether a UE is permitted to use a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers may include: an indication that the UE is permitted to use a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers at least partially based on a first frequency band that is at least partially different from at least one second frequency band. The indication of whether a UE is permitted to use a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers may include: an indication that the UE is not permitted to use a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers at least partially based on the first frequency band being the same as at least one second frequency band. The indication of whether a UE is permitted to use a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers may include: an indication at least partially conditionally based on whether the use of a single receiver chain is estimated to negatively impact the UE's reception performance. This component can also be configured to enable a user equipment to receive more than one non-adjacent component carrier using a single receiver chain. The at least two non-adjacent component carriers may include component carriers of the serving cell and component carriers of at least one secondary cell.

[0112] According to one example embodiment, a (non-transitory) computer-readable medium includes instructions stored thereon that, when executed by at least one processor, cause at least one processor to: determine, via a network node, whether to allow a user equipment to use a single receiver chain in carrier aggregation to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers, based at least in part on a first frequency band including a serving cell configured for a user equipment and at least one second frequency band including at least one secondary cell configured for the user equipment; and cause to send to the user equipment an indication of whether the user equipment is permitted to use a single receiver chain in carrier aggregation to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers.

[0113] According to one example embodiment, a (non-transitory) computer-readable medium includes program instructions stored thereon for performing at least the following: determining, by a network node, whether a user equipment is allowed to use a single receiver chain in carrier aggregation to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers, based at least in part on a first frequency band including a serving cell configured for a user equipment and at least one second frequency band including at least one secondary cell configured for the user equipment; and causing an indication to be sent to the user equipment whether the user equipment is allowed to use a single receiver chain in carrier aggregation to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers. The example computer-readable medium may also include program instructions stored thereon for performing the following: configuring a serving cell and at least one secondary cell for the user equipment. Whether a user equipment is allowed to use a single receiver chain in carrier aggregation to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers may also be determined based on at least one of the following: the user equipment's capabilities, or feedback received from the user equipment. The at least two non-adjacent component carriers may include at least one of the following: at least two non-contiguous component carriers, at least two adjacent inter-band component carriers, or at least two intra-band component carriers. An indication of whether a user equipment (UE) is permitted to use a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers may be transmitted using at least one of the following: radio resource control signaling, media access control signaling, downlink control information signaling, or a configuration for carrier aggregation. The network node may be configured to serve a cell for the UE in carrier aggregation. The indication of whether a UE is permitted to use a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers may include: an indication that the UE is permitted to use a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers at least partially based on a first frequency band that is at least partially different from at least one second frequency band. The indication of whether a UE is permitted to use a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers may include: an indication that the UE is not permitted to use a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers at least partially based on the first frequency band being the same as at least one second frequency band. The indication of whether a UE is permitted to use a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers may include: an indication at least partially conditionally based on whether the use of a single receiver chain is estimated to negatively impact the UE's reception performance. The example computer-readable medium may also include program instructions stored thereon for performing the following: enabling the user equipment to receive more than one non-adjacent component carrier using a single receiver chain. The at least two non-adjacent component carriers may include component carriers of the serving cell and component carriers of at least one secondary cell.

[0114] According to one example embodiment, a machine-readable (non-transitory) program storage device is provided, which tangibly embodies machine-executable instructions for performing operations including: determining, by a network node, whether a user equipment is permitted to use a single receiver chain in carrier aggregation to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers, based at least in part on a first frequency band including a serving cell configured for the user equipment and at least one second frequency band including at least one secondary cell configured for the user equipment; and causing an indication to be sent to the user equipment whether the user equipment is permitted to use a single receiver chain in carrier aggregation to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers.

[0115] According to one example embodiment, a (non-transitory) computer-readable medium includes instructions that, when executed by an apparatus, cause the apparatus to perform at least the following: determining, by a network node, whether a user equipment is permitted to use a single receiver chain in carrier aggregation to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers, based at least in part on a first frequency band including a serving cell configured for the user equipment and at least a second frequency band including at least one secondary cell configured for the user equipment; and causing an indication to be sent to the user equipment regarding whether the user equipment is permitted to use a single receiver chain in carrier aggregation to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers.

[0116] According to one example embodiment, a computer-implemented system includes: at least one processor and at least one (non-transitory) memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the system to at least: determine, via a network node, whether a user equipment is permitted to use a single receiver chain in carrier aggregation to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers; and cause an indication to be sent to the user equipment regarding whether the user equipment is permitted to use a single receiver chain in carrier aggregation to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers.

[0117] According to one example embodiment, a computer-implemented system includes: components for determining, at least in part, whether a user equipment is permitted to use a single receiver chain in carrier aggregation to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers, based on a first frequency band including a serving cell configured for the user equipment and at least one second frequency band including at least one secondary cell configured for the user equipment; and components for causing an indication to be sent to the user equipment whether the user equipment is permitted to use a single receiver chain in carrier aggregation to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers.

[0118] According to one example embodiment, an apparatus may include: at least one processor; and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to at least: receive configuration for carrier aggregation from a network node, wherein the configuration includes at least an indication of at least one secondary cell; and configure reception from the at least one secondary cell based at least in part on whether a first frequency band including at least one component carrier of the serving cell and a second frequency band including at least one component carrier of the at least one secondary cell are the same frequency band, and whether the use of a single receiver chain is estimated to negatively affect the reception performance of the apparatus, wherein the apparatus is capable of using a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers. The at least two non-adjacent component carriers may include at least one of the following: at least two non-contiguous component carriers, at least two adjacent inter-band component carriers, or at least two intra-band component carriers. Reception from the at least one secondary cell may also be configured based at least in part on at least one of the following: the capability of the apparatus, or one or more measurements associated with the serving cell or at least one of the at least one secondary cell. Configuring reception from at least one secondary cell may include the example apparatus being configured to: determine, based on at least one of the following, not to use a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers: the first and second frequency bands include the same frequency band, or the use of a single receiver chain for receiving at least two non-adjacent component carriers would negatively affect an estimate of the apparatus's reception performance; configure a first receiver chain for receiving at least one component carrier of the serving cell; and configure a second receiver chain for receiving at least one component carrier of at least one secondary cell, wherein the at least two non-adjacent component carriers may include at least one component carrier of the serving cell and at least one component carrier of at least one secondary cell. The configuration for receiving from at least one secondary cell may include the example apparatus being configured to: determine, based on at least one of the following, to use a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers: that the first frequency band and the second frequency band include at least partially different frequency bands, or that using a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers will not negatively affect the receiving performance of the apparatus; and configure the single receiver chain to receive at least one component carrier from the serving cell and at least one component carrier from at least one secondary cell, wherein the at least two non-adjacent component carriers may include at least one component carrier from the serving cell and at least one component carrier from at least one secondary cell. The apparatus may be a user equipment. Network nodes may include network nodes that serve the apparatus with the serving cell in carrier aggregation. The configuration for carrier aggregation may be received via at least one of the following: radio resource control signaling, media access control signaling, or downlink control information signaling.

[0119] According to an example embodiment, an example method may be provided, comprising: receiving configuration for carrier aggregation from a network node via a user equipment, wherein the configuration includes at least an indication of at least one secondary cell; and configuring reception from the at least one secondary cell based at least in part on whether a first frequency band including at least one component carrier of the serving cell and a second frequency band including at least one component carrier of the at least one secondary cell are the same frequency band, and whether the use of a single receiver chain is estimated to negatively affect the reception performance of the user equipment, wherein the user equipment is capable of using a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers. The at least two non-adjacent component carriers may include at least one of the following: at least two non-contiguous component carriers, at least two adjacent inter-band component carriers, or at least two intra-band component carriers. Reception from the at least one secondary cell may also be configured based at least in part on at least one of the following: the capabilities of the user equipment, or one or more measurements associated with the serving cell or at least one of the at least one secondary cell. Configuring reception from at least one secondary cell may include: determining, based on at least one of the following, that a single receiver chain should not be used to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers: the first frequency band and the second frequency band include the same frequency band, or the use of a single receiver chain for receiving at least two non-adjacent component carriers would negatively affect the reception performance of the user equipment; configuring a first receiver chain for receiving at least one component carrier of the serving cell; and configuring a second receiver chain for receiving at least one component carrier of at least one secondary cell, wherein the at least two non-adjacent component carriers may include at least one component carrier of the serving cell and at least one component carrier of at least one secondary cell. Configuring reception from at least one secondary cell may also include: determining, based on at least one of the following, that a single receiver chain should be used to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers: the first frequency band and the second frequency band include at least partially different frequency bands, or the use of a single receiver chain for receiving at least two non-adjacent component carriers would not negatively affect the reception performance of the user equipment; and configuring a single receiver chain for receiving at least one component carrier from the serving cell and at least one component carrier from at least one secondary cell, wherein the at least two non-adjacent component carriers may include at least one component carrier of the serving cell and at least one component carrier of at least one secondary cell. Network nodes may include network nodes that serve a cell for user equipment in carrier aggregation. Configuration for carrier aggregation may be received via at least one of the following: radio resource control signaling, media access control signaling, or downlink control information signaling.

[0120] According to one example embodiment, an apparatus may include: a circuit system configured to perform: receiving configuration for carrier aggregation from a network node via a user equipment, wherein the configuration includes at least an indication of at least one secondary cell; and a circuit system configured to perform: configuring reception from at least one secondary cell based at least in part on: whether a first frequency band including at least one component carrier of the serving cell and a second frequency band including at least one component carrier of at least one secondary cell are the same frequency band, and whether the use of a single receiver chain is estimated to negatively affect the reception performance of the user equipment, wherein the user equipment is capable of using a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers.

[0121] According to one example embodiment, an apparatus may include: a processing circuitry system; and a memory circuitry system including computer-readable code, the memory circuitry system and the computer-readable code being configured, together with the processing circuitry system, to enable the apparatus to: receive configuration for carrier aggregation from a network node, wherein the configuration includes at least an indication of at least one secondary cell; and configure reception from at least one secondary cell based at least in part on whether a first frequency band including at least one component carrier of the serving cell and a second frequency band including at least one component carrier of at least one secondary cell are the same frequency band, and whether the use of a single receiver chain is estimated to negatively affect the reception performance of the apparatus, wherein the apparatus is capable of using a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers.

[0122] According to one example embodiment, an apparatus may include components for: receiving configuration for carrier aggregation from a network node, wherein the configuration includes at least an indication of at least one secondary cell; and configuring reception from at least one secondary cell based at least in part on: whether a first frequency band including at least one component carrier of the serving cell and a second frequency band including at least one component carrier of at least one secondary cell are the same frequency band, and whether the use of a single receiver chain is estimated to negatively affect the reception performance of the apparatus, wherein the apparatus is capable of using a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers. The at least two non-adjacent component carriers may include at least one of the following: at least two non-contiguous component carriers, at least two adjacent inter-band component carriers, or at least two intra-band component carriers. Reception from at least one secondary cell may also be configured based at least in part on at least one of the following: the capability of the apparatus, or one or more measurements associated with the serving cell or at least one of the at least one secondary cell. Components configured for receiving from at least one secondary cell may include components configured to: determine, based on at least one of the following, not to use a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers: the first and second frequency bands include the same frequency band, or the use of a single receiver chain for receiving at least two non-adjacent component carriers would negatively affect the estimation of the receiving performance of the apparatus; configure a first receiver chain for receiving at least one component carrier of the serving cell; and configure a second receiver chain for receiving at least one component carrier of at least one secondary cell, wherein the at least two non-adjacent component carriers may include at least one component carrier of the serving cell and at least one component carrier of at least one secondary cell. Components configured to configure reception from at least one secondary cell may include components configured to: determine, based on at least one of the following, that using a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers will not negatively affect the receiving performance of the device if the first frequency band and the second frequency band include at least partially different frequency bands; and configure a single receiver chain to receive at least one component carrier from the serving cell and at least one component carrier from at least one secondary cell, wherein the at least two non-adjacent component carriers may include at least one component carrier from the serving cell and at least one component carrier from at least one secondary cell. The device may be a user equipment. A network node may include a network node serving the device in carrier aggregation. Configuration for carrier aggregation may be received via at least one of the following: radio resource control signaling, media access control signaling, or downlink control information signaling.

[0123] According to one example embodiment, a (non-transitory) computer-readable medium includes instructions stored thereon that, when executed by at least one processor, cause at least one processor to: cause a user equipment to receive configuration for carrier aggregation from a network node, wherein the configuration includes at least an indication of at least one secondary cell; and to configure reception from at least one secondary cell based at least in part on whether a first frequency band including at least one component carrier of the serving cell and a second frequency band including at least one component carrier of at least one secondary cell are the same frequency band, and whether the use of a single receiver chain is estimated to negatively affect the reception performance of the user equipment, wherein the user equipment is capable of using a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers.

[0124] According to one example embodiment, a (non-transitory) computer-readable medium includes program instructions stored thereon for performing at least the following: receiving configuration for carrier aggregation from a network node via a user equipment, wherein the configuration includes at least an indication of at least one secondary cell; and configuring reception from at least one secondary cell based at least in part on whether a first frequency band including at least one component carrier of the serving cell and a second frequency band including at least one component carrier of at least one secondary cell are the same frequency band, and whether the use of a single receiver chain is estimated to negatively affect the reception performance of the user equipment, wherein the user equipment is capable of using a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers. The at least two non-adjacent component carriers may include at least one of the following: at least two non-contiguous component carriers, at least two adjacent inter-band component carriers, or at least two intra-band component carriers. Reception from at least one secondary cell may also be configured based at least in part on at least one of the following: the capabilities of the user equipment, or one or more measurements associated with the serving cell or at least one of the at least one secondary cell. The program instructions for performing the configuration of reception from at least one secondary cell may include program instructions for performing the following: determining, based on at least one of the following, that a single receiver chain is not used to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers: the first frequency band and the second frequency band include the same frequency band, or the use of a single receiver chain for receiving at least two non-adjacent component carriers would negatively affect the reception performance of the user equipment; configuring a first receiver chain for receiving at least one component carrier of the serving cell; and configuring a second receiver chain for receiving at least one component carrier of at least one secondary cell, wherein the at least two non-adjacent component carriers may include at least one component carrier of the serving cell and at least one component carrier of at least one secondary cell. The program instructions for configuring reception from at least one secondary cell may include program instructions for performing the following: determining, based on at least one of the following, that using a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers will not negatively affect the reception performance of the user equipment if the first frequency band and the second frequency band include at least partially different frequency bands, or an estimate that using a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers will not negatively affect the reception performance of the user equipment; and configuring a single receiver chain to receive at least one component carrier from the serving cell and at least one component carrier from at least one secondary cell, wherein the at least two non-adjacent component carriers may include at least one component carrier from the serving cell and at least one component carrier from at least one secondary cell. The network node may include the network node serving the user equipment in carrier aggregation. The configuration for carrier aggregation may be received via at least one of the following: radio resource control signaling, media access control signaling, or downlink control information signaling.

[0125] According to one example embodiment, a machine-readable (non-transitory) program storage device tangibly embodies machine-executable instructions for performing operations including: causing a user equipment to receive a configuration for carrier aggregation from a network node, wherein the configuration includes at least an indication of at least one secondary cell; and configuring reception from at least one secondary cell based at least in part on whether a first frequency band including at least one component carrier of the serving cell and a second frequency band including at least one component carrier of at least one secondary cell are the same frequency band, and whether the use of a single receiver chain is estimated to negatively affect the reception performance of the user equipment, wherein the user equipment is capable of using a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers.

[0126] According to one example embodiment, a (non-transitory) computer-readable medium includes instructions that, when executed by an apparatus, cause the apparatus to perform at least the following: cause a user equipment to receive a configuration for carrier aggregation from a network node, wherein the configuration includes at least an indication of at least one secondary cell; and configure reception from at least one secondary cell based at least in part on whether a first frequency band including at least one component carrier of the serving cell and a second frequency band including at least one component carrier of at least one secondary cell are the same frequency band, and whether the use of a single receiver chain is estimated to negatively affect the reception performance of the user equipment, wherein the user equipment is capable of using a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers.

[0127] According to one example embodiment, a computer-implemented system includes: at least one processor and at least one (non-transitory) memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the system to at least: cause a user equipment to receive a configuration for carrier aggregation from a network node, wherein the configuration includes at least an indication of at least one secondary cell; and configure reception from at least one secondary cell based at least in part on whether a first frequency band including at least one component carrier of the serving cell and a second frequency band including at least one component carrier of at least one secondary cell are the same frequency band, and whether the use of a single receiver chain is estimated to negatively affect the reception performance of the user equipment, wherein the user equipment is capable of using a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers.

[0128] According to one example embodiment, a computer-implemented system includes: components for enabling a user equipment to receive a configuration for carrier aggregation from a network node, wherein the configuration includes at least an indication of at least one secondary cell; and components for configuring reception from at least one secondary cell based at least in part on whether a first frequency band including at least one component carrier of the serving cell and a second frequency band including at least one component carrier of at least one secondary cell are the same frequency band, and whether the use of a single receiver chain is estimated to negatively affect the reception performance of the user equipment, wherein the user equipment is capable of using a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers.

[0129] As used in this article, the term “non-transient” refers to the limitation of the medium itself (i.e., tangible, not signal), rather than the limitation on the persistence of data storage (e.g., RAM vs. ROM).

[0130] As used herein, the terms “at least one” and “one or more” respectively mean “any one of at least one” and “any one of one or more”. It should be understood that the foregoing description is illustrative only. Various alternatives and modifications can be devised by those skilled in the art. For example, features recited in the various dependent claims can be combined with each other in any suitable combination. In addition, features from the different embodiments described above can be selectively combined to form new embodiments. Therefore, the description is intended to cover all such alternatives, modifications, and variations that fall within the scope of the appended claims.

[0131] It should be understood that the foregoing description is illustrative only. Various alternatives and modifications can be devised by those skilled in the art. For example, features recited in the various dependent claims can be combined with each other in any suitable combination. In addition, features from the different embodiments described above can be selectively combined to form new embodiments. Therefore, the description is intended to cover all such alternatives, modifications, and variations that fall within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A device for communication, comprising: At least one processor; as well as At least one memory, the at least one memory storing instructions, the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, causing the device to at least: From the network node, receive an indication of whether the device is permitted to use a single receiver chain in carrier aggregation to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers; and The reception from at least one secondary cell is configured based at least in part on the received instruction.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least two non-adjacent component carriers comprise at least one of the following: At least two discontinuous component carriers, At least two adjacent inter-band component carriers, or At least two frequency band component carriers.

3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein whether the apparatus is permitted to use the single receiver chain for receiving the indication of the at least two non-adjacent component carriers is received by at least one of the following: Radio Resource Control (RRC) signaling Media access control signaling, Downlink control information signaling, or Configuration for the carrier aggregation.

4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the network node includes a network node that provides a serving cell for the apparatus in the carrier aggregation.

5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the received instruction comprises: The device is permitted to use the single receiver chain to receive indications of the at least two non-adjacent component carriers.

6. The apparatus of claim 5, further comprising a frequency band of a component carrier of the serving cell that is at least partially different from the frequency band of at least one component carrier comprising the at least one secondary cell, wherein the at least two non-adjacent component carriers comprise: The component carrier of the serving cell and the at least one component carrier of the at least one secondary cell.

7. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein configuring the receiving from the at least one secondary cell includes, when the instruction is executed by the at least one processor, causing the apparatus to: The single receiver chain is configured to receive at least one first component carrier of a first cell and at least one second component carrier of the at least one secondary cell, wherein the at least two non-adjacent component carriers include the at least one first component carrier and the at least one second component carrier.

8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the received instruction comprises: The device is not permitted to use the single receiver chain to receive indications of the at least two non-adjacent component carriers.

9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the same frequency band includes a component carrier of the serving cell and at least one component carrier of the at least one secondary cell, wherein the at least two non-adjacent component carriers include the component carrier of the serving cell and the at least one component carrier of the at least one secondary cell.

10. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein configuring the receiving from the at least one secondary cell includes, when the instruction is executed by the at least one processor, causing the apparatus to: Configure the first receiver chain to receive at least one first component carrier of the serving cell; and A second receiver chain is configured to receive at least one second component carrier of the at least one secondary cell, wherein the at least two non-adjacent component carriers include the at least one first component carrier and the at least one second component carrier.

11. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the received instruction includes a condition indication, wherein configuring the reception from the at least one secondary cell includes, when the instruction is executed by the at least one processor, causing the apparatus to: It is estimated whether using the single receiver chain to receive the at least two non-adjacent component carriers will negatively affect the receiving performance of the device; In response to an estimate that using the single receiver chain to receive the at least two non-adjacent component carriers would negatively impact the receiving performance of the apparatus, a first receiver chain is configured to receive at least one first component carrier of a first cell, and a second receiver chain is configured to receive at least one second component carrier of the at least one secondary cell, wherein the at least two non-adjacent component carriers include the at least one first component carrier and the at least one secondary component carrier; and In response to an estimate that using the single receiver chain to receive the at least two non-adjacent component carriers will not negatively affect the receiving performance of the device, the single receiver chain is configured to receive the at least one first component carrier of the first cell and the at least one second component carrier of the at least one secondary cell.

12. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to: The network node is informed of the device's ability to receive more than one non-adjacent component carrier using the single receiver chain.

13. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus comprises or is implemented in a user equipment.

14. A method for communication, comprising: The user equipment receives from the network node an indication as to whether the device is permitted to use a single receiver chain in carrier aggregation to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers; as well as The reception from at least one secondary cell is configured based at least in part on the received instruction.

15. An apparatus for communication, comprising: At least one processor; as well as At least one memory, the at least one memory storing instructions, the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, causing the device to at least: The determination of whether the user equipment is permitted to use a single receiver chain to receive at least two non-adjacent component carriers in the carrier aggregation is based at least in part on a first frequency band including a serving cell configured for the user equipment and at least a second frequency band including at least one secondary cell configured for the user equipment. as well as Send to the user equipment an indication of whether the user equipment is permitted to use the single receiver chain in the carrier aggregation to receive the at least two non-adjacent component carriers.

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