Channel State Information Reference Signal, CSI-RS, Acquisition

Abstract

To provide a method and an apparatus for communication to notify user equipment of timing for acquisition of a reference signal.SOLUTION: In a wireless communication system 200, a serving cell 204 requests UE 202 to measure a timing difference between neighbor cells and uses that information to generate a channel state information reference signal (CSI-RS) configuration. The serving cell sends a CSI-RS configuration 222 including a neighbor cell 206 to the UE to enable the UE to acquire a CSI-RS from the neighbor cell. The serving cell sends timing-related information 224 to the neighbor cell. The neighbor cell uses the timing-related information to transmit a CSI-RS 226.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001]

[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of provisional application No. 62 / 502,353, filed in the United States Patent and Trademark Office on May 5, 2017, and nonprovisional application No. 15 / 970,816, filed in the United States Patent and Trademark Office on May 3, 2018, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Introduction

[0002] Various aspects described herein relate to wireless communications, and more particularly, but not exclusively, to acquiring a reference signal.

[0003]

[0003] Wireless communication networks have been widely deployed to provide various communication services such as telephony, video, data, messaging, broadcasts, etc. Such networks are typically multiple-access networks that support communication for multiple users by sharing available network resources.

[0004] In some wireless communication networks, a cell-specific reference signal (CRS) may be used to make mobility decisions (e.g., whether to handover to another cell). However, user support of the CRS may be inefficient or the CRS may not be available in some networks. Thus, there is a need for efficient mobility techniques in wireless communication networks. Summary of the Invention

[0005]

[0005] The following presents a simplified summary of some aspects of the present disclosure in order to provide a basic understanding of such aspects. This summary is not an extensive overview of all of the considered features of the present disclosure, and is not intended to identify key or critical elements of all aspects of the present disclosure or to delineate the scope of any or all aspects of the present disclosure. Its sole purpose is to present various concepts of some aspects of the present disclosure in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

[0006] In some aspects, the present disclosure provides a method of communication that includes identifying a cell that provides timing for a channel state information reference signal (CSI-RS) and sending an indication of the identified cell to a user equipment (UE).

[0007] In some aspects, the present disclosure provides an apparatus for communication including a memory device and a processing circuit coupled to the memory, the processing circuit configured to identify a cell that provides timing for a channel state information reference signal (CSI-RS) and send an indication of the identified cell to a user equipment (UE).

[0008] In some aspects, the present disclosure provides an apparatus configured for communication, the apparatus including means for identifying a cell that provides timing for a channel state information reference signal (CSI-RS) and means for sending an indication of the identified cell to a user equipment (UE).

[0009]

[0009] In some aspects, the present disclosure provides a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing computer-executable code including code for identifying a cell that provides timing for a channel state information reference signal (CSI-RS) and sending an indication of the identified cell to a user equipment (UE).

[0010] In some aspects, the present disclosure provides a method of communication that includes receiving, at a user equipment (UE), an indication of a cell that provides timing for receiving a channel state information reference signal (CSI-RS) and receiving the CSI-RS.

[0011] In some aspects, the present disclosure provides an apparatus for communication including a memory device and a processing circuit coupled to the memory, the processing circuit configured to receive an indication of a cell providing timing for receiving a channel state information reference signal (CSI-RS) at a user equipment (UE) and to receive the CSI-RS.

[0012] In some aspects, the present disclosure provides an apparatus configured for communication, the apparatus including means for receiving an indication of a cell providing timing for receiving a channel state information reference signal (CSI-RS) at a user equipment (UE) and means for receiving the CSI-RS.

[0013]

[0013] In some aspects, the present disclosure provides a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing computer-executable code including code for receiving an indication of a cell providing timing for receiving a channel state information reference signal (CSI-RS) at a user equipment (UE) and receiving the CSI-RS.

[0014]

[0014] These and other aspects of the present disclosure will be more fully understood upon consideration of the following detailed description. Other aspects, features, and implementations of the present disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the following description of specific implementations of the present disclosure in conjunction with the accompanying figures. Although features of the present disclosure may be described below in relation to specific implementations and figures, all implementations of the present disclosure may include one or more of the advantageous features discussed herein. In other words, although one or more implementations may be described as having certain advantageous features, one or more of such features may also be used in accordance with various implementations of the present disclosure discussed herein. In a similar manner, although a specific implementation may be described below as an implementation of a device, a system, or a method, it should be understood that such implementations may be implemented in various devices, systems, and methods. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0015]

[0015] The accompanying drawings are presented to aid in explaining various aspects of the present disclosure and are provided by way of example only and not by way of limitation. [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram of an example communication system in which aspects of the present disclosure may be used. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of another example communication system in which aspects of the present disclosure may be used. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example process for providing and using a CSI-RS configuration in accordance with various aspects of the disclosure. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example process for using timing of a first cell receiving CSI-RS from a second cell in accordance with certain aspects of the disclosure. [Diagram 5]FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example process for using timing of a second cell to receive CSI-RS from the second cell in accordance with certain aspects of the disclosure. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example process for scheduling CSI-RS transmissions by different cells in accordance with certain aspects of the disclosure. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating an example hardware implementation for an apparatus (eg, an electronic device) capable of supporting communications in accordance with certain aspects of the disclosure. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of a process for providing an indication of a CSI-RS according to certain aspects of the disclosure. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process for providing a CSI-RS configuration according to certain aspects of the disclosure. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process for communicating timing information according to certain aspects of the disclosure. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating another example hardware implementation for an apparatus (eg, an electronic device) that can support communications in accordance with some aspects of the disclosure. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process for acquiring CSI-RS according to certain aspects of the disclosure. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process for acquiring CSI-RS according to certain aspects of the disclosure. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a block diagram illustrating another example hardware implementation for an apparatus (eg, an electronic device) that can support communications in accordance with some aspects of the disclosure. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process for acquiring CSI-RS according to certain aspects of the disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0016]

[0031] Various aspects of the present disclosure relate to reference signal acquisition. In some aspects, the network may send an indication to a user equipment (UE) that tells the UE which cell timing (e.g., serving cell timing or neighbor cell timing) to use to receive CSI-RS. The cell timing may be determined, for example, based on the timing of a synchronization signal block (SS-block) transmitted in the cell. In some aspects, the network may request the UE to measure different timings between different cells and use the information to generate a CSI-RS configuration. The network may send a CSI-RS configuration to the UE to enable the UE to acquire CSI-RS from a neighbor cell. In some aspects, the network may send timing-related information to a neighbor cell, which uses the information to transmit CSI-RS.

[0017]

[0032] The detailed description set forth below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings is intended as a description of various configurations and is not intended to represent the only configurations in which the concepts described herein may be implemented. The detailed description includes specific details for the purpose of providing a thorough understanding of the various concepts. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that these concepts may be implemented without these specific details. Moreover, alternative configurations may be devised without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Additionally, well-known elements will not be described in detail or will be omitted to avoid obscuring the relevant details of the present disclosure.

[0018]

[0033] The various concepts presented throughout this disclosure may be implemented across a wide variety of telecommunications systems, network architectures, and communication standards. For example, the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) is a standards organization that defines several wireless communication standards for networks that encompass Evolved Packet Systems (EPS), often referred to as Long Term Evolution (LTE) networks. Evolved versions of LTE networks, such as fifth generation (5G) networks, may provide many different types of applications or services, including, but not limited to, web browsing, video streaming, VoIP, mission-critical applications, multi-hop networks, remote operations with real-time feedback (e.g., remote surgery), and the like. Thus, the teachings herein may be implemented in accordance with a variety of network technologies, including, but not limited to, 5G technologies, fourth generation (4G) technologies, third generation (3G) technologies, and other network architectures. Additionally, the techniques described herein may be used for downlinks, uplinks, peer-to-peer links, or some other type of link.

[0019]

[0034] The actual telecommunications standard, network architecture, and / or communication standard used will depend on the overall design constraints imposed on the system and the particular application. For illustrative purposes, the following may describe various aspects in the context of a 5G system and / or an LTE system. However, it should be understood that the teachings herein may be used in still other systems. Thus, references to functionality in the context of 5G and / or LTE terminology should be understood to be equally applicable to other types of technologies, networks, components, signaling, etc. Exemplary Communication Systems

[0020]

[0035] 1 illustrates an example of a wireless communication system 100 in which user equipment (UE) can communicate with other devices via wireless communication signaling. For example, a first UE 102 and a second UE 104 may communicate with a first transmission / reception point (TRP) 106 using wireless communication resources managed by the first TRP and / or other network components (e.g., a core network 108, an Internet Service Provider (ISP) 110, peer devices, etc.). In addition, devices in the system 100 may communicate with each other directly via a device-to-device (D2D) link 112 or other similar link.

[0021]

[0036] In accordance with the teachings herein, devices in the wireless communication system 100 include functionality 114 for CSI-RS configuration and transmission. For example, the first UE 102, the second UE 104, the first TRP 106, and the second TRP 116 may each include functionality 114 for CSI-RS configuration and transmission as discussed in more detail below.

[0022]

[0037] The links and components of the wireless communication system 100 may take different forms in different implementations. For example, but not limited to, a UE may be a cellular device, an Internet of Things (IoT) device, a Cellular IoT (CIoT) device, an LTE wireless cellular device, a Machine Type Communication (MTC) cellular device, a smart alarm, a remote session, a smartphone, a mobile phone, a smart meter, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a personal computer, a mesh node, and a tablet computer.

[0023]

[0038] In some aspects, a TRP may refer to a physical entity that incorporates radio header functionality for a particular physical cell. In some aspects, a TRP may include 5G New Radio (NR) functionality with an air interface based on Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM). NR may support, for example, but not limited to, evolved mobile broadband (eMBB), mission critical services, and wide-scale deployment of IoT devices. The functionality of a TRP may be similar in one or more aspects to a CIoT base station (C-BS), a Node B, an evolved Node B (eNodeB), a Radio Access Network (RAN) access node, a Radio Network Controller (RNC), a base station (BS), a Radio Base Station (RBS), a Base Station Controller (BSC), a Base Transceiver Station (BTS), a Transceiver Function (TF), a radio transceiver, a radio router, a Basic Service Set (BSS), an Enhanced Service Set (ESS), a macro cell, a macro node, a Home eNB (HeNB), a femto cell, a femto node, a pico node, or some other suitable entity. In different scenarios (e.g., NR, LTE, etc.), the TRP may be referred to as a gNodeB (gNB), an eNB, a base station, or using other terminology.

[0024]

[0039] Various types of network-to-device links and D2D links may be supported in the wireless communication system 100. For example, D2D links may include, but are not limited to, machine-to-machine (M2M) links, MTC links, vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) links, and vehicle-to-anything (V2X) links. Network-to-device links may include, but are not limited to, uplink (or reverse link), downlink (or forward link), and vehicle-to-network (V2N) links. Exemplary Communication Components

[0025]

[0040] 2 illustrates another example of a wireless communication system 200, where a first device (e.g., UE) 202 may receive signals from different cells. For example, the first device 202 may currently be served by a serving cell 204 (e.g., a cell of a gNB), but repeatedly conducts measurements of nearby cells, such as a neighbor cell 206 (e.g., a cell of another gNB). To reduce the complexity of FIG. 2, only three entities are shown. Notably, a wireless communication system may include more entities than these entities.

[0026]

[0041] In accordance with the techniques herein, the first device 202 may decode the CSI-RS from the neighbor cell 206 with assistance from the serving cell 204. To such end, the first device 202 may optionally include functionality 208 for measuring a timing difference (e.g., a symbol timing difference or some other timing difference) between the cells based on an NR synchronization signal (NR-SS) and reporting the timing difference to the serving cell. For example, the first device 202 may measure a symbol timing difference (or some other timing difference) between the serving cell 204 and the neighbor cell 206 based on an NR-SS 216 received from the serving cell 204 and an NR-SS 218 received from the neighbor cell 206. As a result, the first device 202 may optionally send an indication of the timing difference 220 to the serving cell 204.

[0027]

[0042] The serving cell 204 may include functionality 210 to determine a CSI-RS configuration. In some scenarios, the CSI-RS configuration may indicate which cell the first device may use as a timing reference for receiving CSI-RS (e.g., for receiving CSI-RS from a neighboring cell 206). For example, the CSI-RS configuration may indicate that the first device 202 will align its CSI-RS timing to the timing of the serving cell 204. As another example, the CSI-RS configuration may indicate that the first cell 202 will align its CSI-RS timing to the timing of the neighboring cell 206. As discussed herein, the serving cell 204 may send the CSI-RS configuration 222 to the first device 202.

[0028]

[0043] In some scenarios, the CSI-RS configuration determination is based on a symbol timing difference (or some other timing difference) between the serving cell 204 and the neighboring cell 206. In some implementations, the determination may be based on a timing difference 220 sent by the first device 202. In some implementations, the determination may be based on timing information the serving cell receives from and / or sends to the neighboring cell. Thus, the serving cell 204 may send and / or receive timing information 224 (e.g., CSI-RS timing information) to and / or from the neighboring cell 206.

[0029]

[0044] The neighboring cell 206 includes functionality 214 for transmitting CSI-RS. The CSI-RS may be transmitted based on the timing of the neighboring cell 206 and / or based on CSI-RS timing information received from the serving cell 204 or some other entity. For example, the CSI-RS timing information may indicate when the neighboring cell 206 transmits CSI-RS 226.

[0030]

[0045] The first device 202 may further include functionality for decoding 212 the CSI-RS of the neighboring cell 206. In some aspects, this decoding may be based on a CSI-RS configuration 222 received from the serving cell 204. Other devices in the wireless communication system 200 may include similar functionality (not shown) as discussed above. CSI-RS Configuration and Transmission

[0031]

[0046] For cell-level mobility in Radio Resource Control (RRC) CONNECTED mode, CSI-RS can be used in addition to IDLE mode reference signal RS (e.g., NR-SS). Detection of neighboring cells for measurements can be based on NR-SS.

[0032]

[0047] For RRC CONNECTED mode mobility that encompasses CSI-RS, the UE may use the CSI-RS configuration to measure CSI-RS transmissions from neighboring cells. The CSI-RS configuration may include, for example, antenna ports, CSI-RS reference signal configuration, CSI-RS subframe configuration, and CSI-RS scrambling identity. These parameters are a function of neighboring cell timing, which may include one or more of a system frame number, subframe index, slot index, minislot index, or symbol index. The timing information may be conveyed in the physical broadcast channel (PBCH) of each neighboring cell.

[0033]

[0048] A UE in CONNECTED mode may be configured not to decode PBCH from neighboring cells. For example, decoding of PBCH may be avoided to reduce operational complexity during CONNECTED measurements. Therefore, the UE may not be able to measure CSI-RS transmissions from neighboring cells.

[0034]

[0049] The present disclosure relates in some aspects to enabling a UE to decode a CSI-RS of a neighboring cell without requiring the UE to read the neighboring cell's PBCH. For example, the network may assist the UE in obtaining the target cell's timing (or relevant timing) and / or scrambling information. To this end, the network (e.g., the current serving cell) may perform one or more of the following operations:

[0035]

[0050] In some aspects, the network may configure one or more UEs to measure the symbol timing difference (or some other timing difference) between a serving cell and one or more neighboring cells. In some scenarios, the UE may autonomously choose to perform such measurements.

[0036]

[0051] Thus, the network (e.g., a cell in the network) may obtain the timing difference from one or more UEs. Alternatively, or in addition, the network may determine the timing difference based on timing information it receives from one or more cells. From this or these timing differences, the network derives an estimate of the timing difference between the serving cell and the neighboring cell.

[0037]

[0052] The network may use the timing difference between the serving cell and the neighboring cell for CSI-RS configuration and transmission. For example, the network may generate a CSI-RS configuration for one or more neighbors based on the timing difference and send the CSI-RS configuration to the UE.

[0038]

[0053] The CSI-RS configuration may include antenna ports, CSI-RS reference signal configuration, CSI-RS subframe configuration, and other information. The network may indicate to the UE that the timing for CSI-RS is based on the timing of the serving cell or neighboring cell. The network may provide to the UE a subset of the system frame number (SFN), subframe index (SFI), symbol index (SI) and / or the difference in timing (e.g., symbol timing) between the serving cell and the neighboring cell. A scrambling ID or a seed for obtaining a scrambling ID may be provided as part of the CSI-RS configuration. The network may also specify whether (1) the same scrambling sequence or (2) different scrambling sequences are sent over symbols during the symbol timing difference estimation between the serving cell and the neighboring cell.

[0039]

[0054] The network (e.g., the current serving cell or a network node such as a mobility management entity (MME), a gateway, etc.) may also control transmission of CSI-RS from neighboring cells. In one scenario, the network may instruct neighboring cells to transmit based on the timing of the neighboring cells.

[0040]

[0055] In another scenario, the network instructs neighboring cells to transmit CSI-RS based on the timing of the serving cell, in which case the following operations may be supported: The network may provide the neighboring cells with an estimate of the symbol timing difference between the serving cell and the neighboring cell, a subset of the SI, SFI, and SFN. The network may also specify whether the same or different scrambling sequences are sent over symbols between the symbol timing difference between the serving cell and the neighboring cell. The network may also coordinate the transmission of CSI-RS from one or more cells (e.g., by specifying an offset between the transmission of CSI-RS by different cells).

[0041]

[0056] If configured by the network, the UE may measure the timing difference between the serving cell and one or more neighboring cells. In addition, if configured by the network, the UE may report the symbol difference to the network.

[0042]

[0057] In view of the above, FIG. 3 illustrates a process 300 for communication in accordance with certain aspects of the disclosure. The process 300 may be performed collectively by, for example, one or more of at least one UE, at least one gNB, at least one access terminal, at least one TRP, at least one base station, etc. Of course, in various aspects within the scope of the disclosure, the process 300 may be implemented by any suitable apparatus capable of supporting communication-related operations (e.g., RS-related operations).

[0043]

[0058] At optional block 302, a first cell (e.g., a first gNB) may request the UE to measure a timing difference between the first cell and a second cell (e.g., a second gNB). For example, the first cell may be a serving cell for the UE and the second cell may be a neighboring cell (e.g., a potential target cell for handover).

[0044]

[0059] At block 304, the UE measures a timing difference between the first cell and the second cell. As discussed herein, the measurement may be based on NR-SS transmitted by the first cell and the second cell.

[0045]

[0060] In block 306, the UE reports the timing difference to the first cell.

[0046]

[0061] At block 308, the first cell determines a CSI-RS configuration based on the timing difference.

[0047]

[0062] At block 310, the first cell sends a CSI-RS configuration to the UE.

[0048]

[0063] In optional block 312, the first cell may send CSI-RS timing information to the second cell. This information may be sent, for example, via direct communication between the two cells (e.g., via an interface such as the X2 interface in the LET) or via other intermediate network nodes such as an MME, a gateway, etc.

[0049]

[0064] The second cell transmits the CSI-RS at block 314. As discussed herein, the transmission of the CSI-RS may, in some cases, be based at least on the CSI-RS timing information received from the first cell.

[0050]

[0065] At block 316, the UE uses the CSI-RS configuration to decode the CSI-RS from the second cell. For example, the UE may determine which sequence is used by the second cell in transmitting the CSI-RS based on the scrambling ID, the seed used to generate the scrambling ID, and the symbol index used to generate the seed. Advantageously, at this step, the UE may use the timing of the first cell (e.g., the serving cell) instead of the timing of the second cell (which may require reading the PBCH of the second cell to obtain the timing of the second cell).

[0051]

[0066] 4 illustrates another process 400 for communication in accordance with certain aspects of the disclosure. Process 400 may be performed collectively by, for example, one or more of at least one UE, at least one gNB, at least one access terminal, at least one TRP, at least one base station, etc. Of course, in various aspects within the scope of the disclosure, process 400 may be implemented by any suitable apparatus capable of supporting communication-related operations (e.g., RS-related operations).

[0052]

[0067] At block 402, the first cell (e.g., the first gNB) sends a message to the UE instructing the UE to use the timing of the first cell to receive CSI-RS from the second cell (e.g., the second gNB).

[0053]

[0068] The first cell sends a CSI-RS configuration to the UE at block 404. In some aspects, the CSI-RS configuration may be based on the timing of the second cell (e.g., based on a timing difference between the first cell and the second cell).

[0054]

[0069] At block 406, the UE uses the CSI-RS configuration to determine at least one scrambling sequence.

[0055]

[0070] At block 408, the UE uses the at least one scrambling sequence to decode the CSI-RS transmitted by the second cell.

[0056]

[0071] 5 illustrates another process 500 for communication in accordance with certain aspects of the disclosure. Process 500 may be performed collectively by, for example, one or more of at least one UE, at least one gNB, at least one access terminal, at least one TRP, at least one base station, etc. Of course, in various aspects within the scope of the disclosure, process 500 may be implemented by any suitable apparatus capable of supporting communication-related operations (e.g., RS-related operations).

[0057]

[0072] At block 502, the first cell (e.g., the first gNB) sends a message to the UE instructing the UE to use the timing of the second cell (e.g., the second gNB) to receive CSI-RS from the second cell.

[0058]

[0073] The first cell sends a CSI-RS configuration to the UE at block 504. In some aspects, the CSI-RS configuration may be based on the timing of the second cell (e.g., the configuration may include timing information for the second cell).

[0059]

[0074] At block 506, the UE uses the CSI-RS configuration to determine at least one scrambling sequence.

[0060]

[0075] At block 508, the UE uses the at least one scrambling sequence to decode the CSI-RS transmitted by the second cell.

[0061]

[0076] 6 illustrates another process 600 for communication in accordance with certain aspects of the disclosure. Process 600 may be performed collectively by, for example, one or more of at least one network node, at least one gNB, at least one TRP, at least one base station, etc. Of course, in various aspects within the scope of the disclosure, process 600 may be implemented by any suitable apparatus capable of supporting communication-related operations (e.g., RS-related operations).

[0062]

[0077] At block 602, a first node (e.g., a network node or a first gNB) determines a schedule for transmission of CSI-RS by a first cell and transmission of CSI-RS by a second cell, where the scheduled transmissions do not overlap.

[0063]

[0078] At block 604, the first node sends the schedule to the second cell (and, if applicable, the first cell).

[0064]

[0079] At block 606, the first cell transmits its CSI-RS based on the schedule.

[0065]

[0080] At block 608, the second cell transmits its CSI-RS based on the schedule.

[0066]

[0081] The teachings herein may be used in a network that uses beamforming. For example, a gNB may communicate with a first UE and a second UE via different beamforming directions. That is, the gNB may communicate via any one of a first plurality of directional beams, the first UE 304 may communicate via any one of a second plurality of directional beams, and the second UE may communicate via any one of a plurality of directional beams. Thus, the gNB may communicate with a first UE via a first beamforming direction and with a second UE via a second beamforming direction.

[0067]

[0082] Wireless multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) systems may use multiple transmit antennas to provide beamforming-based signal transmission. Typically, beamforming-based signals transmitted from different antennas are adjusted in phase (and optionally amplitude) such that the power of the resulting signals is focused towards a receiver device (e.g., UE).

[0068]

[0083] A wireless MIMO system may support communication for a single user at a time or for several users simultaneously. Transmission to a single user (e.g., a single receiver device) is commonly referred to as Single-User MIMO (SU-MIMO), while simultaneous transmission for multiple users is commonly referred to as Multi-User MIMO (MU-MIMO).

[0069]

[0084] A gNB in ​​a MIMO system uses multiple antennas for data transmission and reception, while each user uses one or more antennas. The gNB communicates with a UE via a forward link channel and a reverse link channel. In some aspects, a downlink (DL) channel refers to a communication channel from a transmitting antenna of an access point to a receiving antenna of a UE, and an uplink (UL) channel refers to a communication channel from a transmitting antenna of a user to a receiving antenna of an access point. The downlink and the uplink may be referred to as a forward link and a reverse link, respectively.

[0070]

[0085] The MIMO channels corresponding to the transmissions from a set of transmit antennas to a receive antenna are referred to as spatial streams because precoding (e.g., beamforming) is used to steer the transmissions toward the receive antennas. Thus, in some aspects, each spatial stream corresponds to at least one dimension. Thus, the MIMO system provides improved performance (e.g., higher throughput and / or higher reliability) through the use of the additional dimensions provided by these spatial streams. First Example Apparatus

[0071]

[0086] 7 illustrates a block diagram of an example hardware implementation of an apparatus 700 configured to communicate in accordance with one or more of the present disclosures. The apparatus 700 can be embodied or implemented within a gNB, a transmit / receive point (TRP), an access point, a UE, or some other type of device that supports reference signals as taught herein. In various implementations, the apparatus 700 can be embodied or implemented within a base station, an access terminal, or some other type of device. In various implementations, the apparatus 700 can be embodied or implemented within a server, a network entity, a mobile phone, a smartphone, a tablet, a portable computer, a personal computer, a sensor, an alarm, a vehicle, a machine, an entertainment device, a medical device, or any other electronic device having circuitry.

[0072]

[0087] The apparatus 700 includes a communication interface 702 (e.g., at least one transceiver), a storage medium 704, a user interface 706, a memory device 708, and a processing circuit 710 (e.g., at least one processor). These components may be placed in electrical communication with one another and / or coupled to one another via a signaling bus, generally represented by connecting lines in FIG. 7, or other suitable components. The signaling bus may include any number of interconnecting buses and bridges, depending on the particular application and overall design constraints of the processing circuit 710. The signaling bus links the various circuits together such that each of the communication interface 702, the storage medium 704, the user interface 706, and the memory device 708 is placed in electrical communication with and / or coupled to the processing circuit 710. The signaling bus may also link various other circuits (not shown), such as timing sources, peripherals, voltage regulators, and power management circuits, which are well known in the art and will not be described further.

[0073]

[0088] The communication interface 702 may be adapted to facilitate wireless communication of the apparatus 700. For example, the communication interface 702 may include electrical circuitry and / or programming adapted to facilitate communication of information bidirectionally with one or more communication devices in a network. Thus, in some implementations, the communication interface 702 may be coupled to one or more antennas 712 for wireless communication in a wireless communication system. In some implementations, the communication interface 702 may be configured for wire-based communication. For example, the communication interface 702 may be a bus interface, a transmit / receive interface, or other type of some signal interface including a drive, a buffer, or other electrical circuitry for outputting and / or obtaining a signal (e.g., outputting a signal from or receiving a signal within an integrated circuit). The communication interface 702 may be comprised of one or more stand-alone receivers and / or transmitters, and one or more transceivers. In the illustrated example, the communication interface 702 includes a transmitter 714 and a receiver 716.

[0074]

[0089] The memory device 708 may represent one or more memory devices. As shown, the memory device 708 may maintain cell information 718 along with other information used by the apparatus 700. In some implementations, the memory device 708 and the storage medium 704 are implemented as a common memory component. The memory device 708 may also be used to store data that is manipulated by the processing circuit 710 or some other component of the apparatus 700.

[0075]

[0090] Storage medium 704 may represent one or more computer-readable, machine-readable, and / or processor-readable devices for storing programming, such as processor-executable code or instructions (e.g., software, firmware), electronic data, databases, or other digital information. Storage medium 704 may also be used to store data that is manipulated by processing circuitry 710 when executing the programming. Storage medium 704 may be any available medium that can be accessed by a general-purpose or special-purpose processor, including portable or fixed storage devices, optical storage devices, and various other media that can store, contain, or carry programming.

[0076]

[0091] By way of example and not limitation, the storage medium 704 may include a magnetic storage device (e.g., a hard disk, a floppy disk, a magnetic strip), an optical disk (e.g., a compact disk (CD) or a digital versatile disk (DVD)), a smart card, a flash memory device (e.g., a card, stick, or key drive), a random access memory (RAM), a read only memory (ROM), a programmable ROM (PROM), an erasable PROM (EPROM), an electrically erasable PROM (EEPROM), a register, a removable disk, and any other suitable medium for storing instructions and / or software that can be accessed and read by a computer. The storage medium 704 may be embodied in an article of manufacture (e.g., a computer program product). By way of example, the computer program product may include a computer readable medium in packaging materials. In view of the above, in some implementations, the storage medium 704 may be a non-transitory (e.g., tangible) storage medium.

[0077]

[0092] The storage medium 704 may be coupled to the processing circuit 710 such that the processing circuit 710 can read information from the storage medium 704 and write information to the storage medium 1004. That is, the storage medium 704 may be coupled to the processing circuit 710 such that the storage medium 704 is at least accessible by the processing circuit 710, including instances where at least one storage medium is integrated into the processing circuit 710 and / or instances where at least one storage medium is separate from the processing circuit 710 (e.g., resident on the device 700, external to the device 700, distributed across multiple entities, etc.).

[0078]

[0093] The programming stored by the storage medium 704, when executed by the processing circuit 710, causes the processing circuit 710 to perform one or more of the various functions and / or processing operations described herein. For example, the storage medium 704 may include operations configured for regulating operation in one or more hardware blocks of the processing circuit 710, as well as to utilize the communication interface 702 for wireless communications utilizing their respective communication protocols. In some aspects, the storage medium 704 may include a non-transitory computer-readable medium that stores computer-executable code, including code that performs the functionality described herein.

[0079]

[0094] The processing circuitry 710 is generally adapted for processing, including the execution of such programming stored on the storage medium 704. As used herein, the term "code" or "programming" should be interpreted broadly to include, without limitation, instructions, instruction sets, data, code, code segments, program code, programs, programming, subprograms, software modules, applications, software applications, software packages, routines, subroutines, objects, executable files, threads of execution, procedures, functions, etc., whether referred to as software, firmware, middleware, microcode, hardware description language, or otherwise.

[0080]

[0095] The processing circuitry 710 is arranged to obtain, process and / or transmit data, control data access and storage, issue commands, and control other desired operations. The processing circuitry 710 may include electrical circuitry configured to implement desired programming provided by a suitable medium, in at least one example. For example, the processing circuitry 710 may be implemented as one or more processors, one or more controllers, and / or other structures configured to execute executable programming. Examples of the processing circuitry 710 may include general purpose processors, digital signal processors (DSPs), application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or other programmable logic components, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein. General purpose processors may include microprocessors, as well as any conventional processors, controllers, microcontrollers, or state machines. Processing circuitry 710 may also be implemented as a combination of computational components, such as a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, several microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in conjunction with a DSP core, an ASIC and a microprocessor, or any other number of varying configurations. These examples of processing circuitry 710 are for illustrative purposes only, and other suitable configurations are also contemplated within the scope of this disclosure.

[0081]

[0096] In accordance with one or more aspects of the disclosure, the processing circuitry 710 may be adapted to perform any or all of the features, processes, functions, operations and / or routines of any or all of the devices described herein. For example, the processing circuitry 710 may be configured to perform any of the steps, functions, and / or processes described in connection with FIGS. 1-6 and 8-10. As used herein, the term "adapted" with respect to the processing circuitry 710 may refer to one or more of the processing circuitry 710 being configured to, used for, implemented and / or programmed to perform particular processes, functions, operations and / or routines in accordance with various features described herein.

[0082]

[0097] The processing circuit 710 may be a specialized processor, such as an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), that serves as a means for performing (e.g., a structure for performing) any one of the operations described in conjunction with Figures 1-6 and 8-10. The processing circuit 710 may serve as one example of a means for transmitting and / or a means for receiving. In various implementations, the processing circuit 710 may provide and / or incorporate at least the functionality described above for the serving cell 204 of Figure 2.

[0083]

[0098] In accordance with at least one example of the apparatus 700, the processing circuit 710 may include one or more of a circuit / module for determining a timing difference 720, a circuit / module for determining a CSI-RS configuration 722, a circuit / module for sending 724, a circuit / module for determining timing for CSI-RS 726, a circuit / module for receiving 728, or a circuit / module for identifying 730. In various implementations, the circuit / module for determining a timing difference 720, the circuit / module for determining a CSI-RS configuration 722, the circuit / module for sending 724, the circuit / module for determining timing for CSI-RS 726, the circuit / module for receiving 728, or the circuit / module for identifying 730 may provide and / or incorporate the functionality described above for at least the serving cell 204 of FIG.

[0084]

[0099] As mentioned above, the programming stored by the storage medium 704, when executed by the processing circuit 710, causes the processing circuit 710 to perform one or more of the various functions and / or processing operations described herein. For example, the programming may cause the processing circuit 710 to perform the various functions, steps, and / or processes described herein with respect to Figures 1-6 and 8-10 in various implementations. As shown in Figure 7, the storage medium 704 may include one or more of code 740 for determining a timing difference, code 742 for determining a CSI-RS configuration, code 744 for sending, code 746 for determining timing for the CSI-RS, code 748 for receiving, or code 750 for identifying. In various implementations, the code for determining a timing difference 740, the code for determining a CSI-RS configuration 742, the code for sending 744, the code for determining timing for a CSI-RS 746, the code for receiving 748, or the code for identifying 750 may be implemented or otherwise used to provide the functionality described herein for the circuit / module for determining a timing difference 720, the circuit / module for determining a CSI-RS configuration 722, the circuit / module for sending 724, the circuit / module for determining timing for a CSI-RS 726, the circuit / module for receiving 728, or the circuit / module for identifying 730.

[0085]

[0100] 8 illustrates a process 800 for communication in accordance with certain aspects of the present disclosure. Process 800 may be performed within a processing circuit (e.g., processing circuit 710 of FIG. 7 ), which may be located in a gNB, a TRP, a base station, a UE, an access terminal, or some other suitable device. Of course, in various aspects within the scope of the present disclosure, process 800 may be implemented by any suitable device capable of supporting communication-related operations (e.g., sidelink operations).

[0086]

[0101] At optional block 802, the apparatus (e.g., gNB) may determine a timing difference between a cell transmitting CSI-RS (e.g., a neighbor cell) and a serving cell for the UE. In this case, the determination of the CSI-RS configuration at block 806 may be based on the timing difference. In some aspects, the timing difference may be a symbol timing difference. In some aspects, the timing difference may include a slot timing difference, a minislot timing difference, a system frame number timing difference, or any combination thereof.

[0087]

[0102] In some aspects, determining the timing difference may include receiving an indication of the timing difference from the UE. In some aspects, process 800 may further include sending a request to measure the timing difference to the UE.

[0088]

[0103] In some aspects, determining the timing difference may include receiving a first indication of the timing difference from the UE and a second indication of the timing difference from at least one other UE, and generating an estimate of the timing difference based on the first indication of the timing difference and the at least one second indication of the timing difference.

[0089]

[0104] At block 804, the device identifies a cell that provides timing for the CSI-RS. For example, the device may generate an indication to inform the UE that the UE may conform the timing of the CSI-RS to the timing of the particular cell.

[0090]

[0105] In some scenarios, the identified cell may include (e.g., be) a serving cell for the UE, where, in some cases, the CSI-RS may be transmitted by a neighboring cell of the serving cell.

[0091]

[0106] In some scenarios, the identified cells may include (e.g., may be) neighboring cells of the serving cell for the UE, where, in some cases, CSI-RS may be transmitted by the neighboring cells.

[0092]

[0107] At optional block 806, the apparatus may determine a CSI-RS configuration for the CSI-RS. In some aspects, the CSI-RS configuration may include an indication of subcarrier spacing for the CSI-RS. In some aspects, the CSI-RS configuration may include an indication of a timing difference that accounts for subcarrier spacing between the cell transmitting the CSI-RS and the serving cell for the UE.

[0093]

[0108] At 808, the device sends an indication of the identified cell to the UE. In the case where the device determines a CSI-RS configuration at block 806, the CSI-RS configuration may include an indication of the identified cell. In this case, sending the indication to the UE at block 808 may include (e.g., may include) sending the CSI-RS configuration to the UE.

[0094]

[0109] In some embodiments, a process in accordance with the teachings herein may include any combination of the above operations and / or features.

[0095]

[0110] 9 illustrates a process 900 for communication in accordance with certain aspects of the present disclosure. Process 900 may be performed within a processing circuit (e.g., processing circuit 710 of FIG. 7) that may be located in a gNB, a TRP, a base station, a UE, an access terminal, or some other suitable device. Of course, in various aspects within the scope of the present disclosure, process 900 may be implemented by any suitable device capable of supporting communication-related operations (e.g., sidelink operations).

[0096]

[0111] At optional block 902, an apparatus (e.g., a gNB) may send a request to a UE to measure a timing difference. For example, a serving cell may instruct a serving UE to estimate a symbol timing difference.

[0097]

[0112] At block 904, the apparatus determines a timing difference between a first cell (e.g., a serving cell) and a second cell (e.g., a neighboring cell). For example, the apparatus may receive an indication of the timing difference from the UE.

[0098]

[0113] At block 906, the device determines a channel state information-reference signal (CSI-RS) configuration for the second cell based on the timing difference.

[0099]

[0114] At block 908, the device sends the CSI-RS configuration to the UE served by the first.

[0100]

[0115] In some aspects, the CSI-RS configuration may include an indication that the timing for the CSI-RS of the second cell is based on the timing of the first cell. In some aspects, the CSI-RS configuration may include an indication that the timing for the CSI-RS of the second cell is based on the timing of the second cell. In some aspects, the timing difference may include a symbol timing difference, a slot timing difference, a minislot timing difference, a system frame number timing difference, or any combination thereof. In some aspects, the CSI-RS configuration may include an indication of the timing difference. In some aspects, the CSI-RS configuration may include an indication of the timing difference that takes into account a subcarrier spacing between the first cell and the second cell. In some aspects, the CSI-RS configuration may include a scrambling identifier associated with the CSI-RS of the second cell. In some aspects, the CSI-RS configuration may include a seed for obtaining a scrambling identifier associated with the CSI-RS of the second cell. In some aspects, the CSI-RS configuration may include an indication of whether the CSI-RS of the second cell uses one scrambling sequence or different scrambling sequences across the set of symbols. In some aspects, the CSI-RS configuration may include a seed for obtaining a scrambling identifier associated with the CSI-RS of the second cell. In some aspects, the CSI-RS configuration may include an indication that the CSI-RS of the second cell uses one scrambling sequence across the set of symbols. In some aspects, the determination of the timing difference may include receiving an indication of the timing difference from the UE. In some aspects, the process 900 may further include sending a request to measure the timing difference to the UE. In some aspects, the determination of the timing difference may include receiving a first indication of the timing difference from the UE and a second indication of the timing difference from the at least one other UE, and generating an estimate of the timing difference based on the first indication of the timing difference and the at least one second indication of the timing difference.

[0101]

[0116] In some embodiments, a process in accordance with the teachings herein may include any combination of the above operations and / or features.

[0102]

[0117] 10 illustrates a process 1000 for communication in accordance with certain aspects of the present disclosure. Process 1000 may be performed within a processing circuit (e.g., processing circuit 710 of FIG. 7) that may be located in a gNB, a TRP, a base station, a network node, a UE, an access terminal, or some other suitable device. Of course, in various aspects within the scope of the present disclosure, process 1000 may be implemented by any suitable device capable of supporting communication-related operations.

[0103]

[0118] At optional block 1002, an apparatus (e.g., a gNB, or a network node) may receive an indication of a timing difference from a user equipment (UE). For example, a first cell may receive the indication from a UE served by a second cell.

[0104]

[0119] At block 1004, the device determines timing for a channel state information-reference signal (CSI-RS) of the first cell.

[0105]

[0120] At 1006, the device sends an indication of the determined timing to the first cell.

[0106]

[0121] At optional block 1008, the device may send other timing information to the first cell.

[0107]

[0122] In some aspects, the timing determination may include determining whether the first cell will transmit CSI-RS based on a timing of the first cell or the second cell. In some aspects, the indication may indicate when the first cell will transmit CSI-RS. In some aspects, the indication may include at least one offset between a transmission of CSI-RS by the first cell and a transmission of at least one CSI-RS by the at least one other cell. In some aspects, the indication may indicate that the first cell will transmit CSI-RS based on a timing of the second cell.

[0108]

[0123] In some aspects, the process 1000 may further include sending an indication to the first cell of a timing difference between the first cell and the second cell to be used for transmission of CSI-RS by the first cell. In some aspects, the process 1000 may further include receiving an indication of the timing difference from a user equipment (UE) served by the second cell. In some aspects, the process 1000 may further include sending a request to the UE to measure the timing difference. In some aspects, the timing difference may include a symbol timing difference, a slot timing difference, a minislot timing difference, a system frame number timing difference, or any combination thereof. In some aspects, the process 1000 may further include sending an indication to the first cell that transmission of CSI-RS by the first cell uses one scrambling sequence over the set of symbols. In some aspects, process 1000 may further include sending an indication to the first cell that transmission of the CSI-RS by the first cell uses a different scrambling sequence across the set of symbols. In some aspects, process 1000 may further include determining other timing for another CSI-RS of the second cell and generating an indication specifying that the timing for the CSI-RS of the first cell does not overlap with the other timing for the other CSI-RS of the second cell.

[0109]

[0124] In some embodiments, a process in accordance with the teachings herein may include any combination of the above operations and / or features.

[0110]

[0125] FIG. 11 illustrates a block diagram of an example hardware implementation of an apparatus 1100 configured to communicate in accordance with one or more of the present disclosures. The apparatus 1100 may be embodied or implemented within a UE, a gNB, a transmit / receive point (TRP), an access point, or other type of device that supports wireless communication (with a reference signal) as taught herein. In various implementations, the apparatus 1100 may be embodied or implemented within an access terminal, a base station, or other type of device. In various implementations, the apparatus 1100 may be embodied or implemented within a mobile phone, a smartphone, a tablet, a portable computer, a personal computer, a sensor, an alarm, a vehicle, a machine, a server, a network entity, an entertainment device, a medical device, or any other electronic device having circuitry.

[0111]

[0126] The apparatus 1100 includes a communication interface 1102 (e.g., at least one transceiver), a storage medium 1104, a user interface 1106, a memory device 1108 (e.g., storing cell information 1118), and a processing circuit 1110 (e.g., at least one processor). In various implementations, the user interface 1106 may include one or more of a keypad, a display, a speaker, a microphone, a touch screen display, or some other circuitry for receiving input from a user or sending output to a user. The communication interface 1102 may be coupled to one or more antennas 1112 and may include a transmitter 1114 and a receiver 1116. In general, the components of FIG. 11 may be similar to corresponding components of the apparatus of FIG. 7.

[0112]

[0127] In accordance with one or more aspects of the disclosure, the processing circuit 1110 may be adapted to perform any or all of the features, processes, functions, operations and / or routines of any or all of the devices described herein. For example, the processing circuit 1110 may be configured to perform any of the steps, functions, and / or processes described in connection with FIGS. 1-6, 12, and 13. As used herein, the term "adapted" with respect to the processing circuit 1110 may refer to one or more of the processing circuit 1110 being configured to, used for, implemented, and / or programmed to perform particular processes, functions, operations and / or routines in accordance with various features described herein.

[0113]

[0128] The processing circuit 1110 may be a specialized processor, such as an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), that serves as a means for performing (e.g., a structure for performing) any one of the operations described in conjunction with Figures 1-6, 12, and 13. The processing circuit 1110 may serve as one example of a means for transmitting and / or a means for receiving. In various implementations, the processing circuit 1110 may provide and / or incorporate at least the functionality described above for the first device 202 of Figure 2.

[0114]

[0129] In accordance with at least one example of the apparatus 1100, the processing circuit 1110 may include one or more of a circuit / module for determining a timing difference 1120, a circuit / module for sending 1122, a circuit / module for receiving 1124, a circuit / module for decoding 1126, a circuit / module for testing 1128, a circuit / module for performing 1130, or a circuit / module for determining timing of cells 1132. In various implementations, the one or more circuits / modules for determining a timing difference 1120, the circuit / module for sending 1122, the circuit / module for receiving 1124, the circuit / module for decoding 1126, the circuit / module for testing 1128, the circuit / module for performing 1130, or the circuit / module for determining timing of cells 1132 may provide and / or incorporate at least the functionality described above for the first device 202 of FIG.

[0115]

[0130] As mentioned above, the programming stored by the storage medium 1104, when executed by the processing circuit 1110, causes the processing circuit 1110 to perform one or more of the various functions and / or processing operations described herein. For example, the programming may cause the processing circuit 1110 to perform the various functions, steps, and / or operations described herein with respect to Figures 1-6, 12, and 13 in various implementations. As shown in Figure 11, the storage medium 1104 may include one or more of code 1140 for determining a timing difference, code 1142 for sending, code 1144 for receiving, code 1146 for decoding, code 1148 for testing, code 1150 for performing, or code 1152 for determining the timing of the cells. In various implementations, the code for determining a timing difference 1140, the code for sending 1142, the code for receiving 1144, the code for decoding 1146, the code for testing 1148, the code for performing 1150, or the code for determining timing of a cell 1152 may be executed or otherwise used to provide the functionality described herein for one or more circuits / modules for determining a timing difference 1120, the circuit / module for sending 1122, the circuit / module for receiving 1124, the circuit / module for decoding 1126, the circuit / module for testing 1128, the circuit / module for performing 1130, or the circuit / module for determining timing of a cell 1132.

[0116]

[0131] 12 illustrates a process 1200 for communication in accordance with certain aspects of the present disclosure. Process 1200 may be performed within a processing circuit (e.g., processing circuit 1110 of FIG. 11 ), which may be located in a UE, an access terminal, a gNB, a TRP, a base station, a UE, an access terminal, or some other suitable device. Of course, in various aspects within the scope of the present disclosure, process 1200 may be implemented by any suitable device capable of supporting communication-related operations.

[0117]

[0132] At block 1202, an apparatus (eg, a UE) receives an indication of a cell that provides timing for receiving a channel state information reference signal (CSI-RS) at the user equipment (UE).

[0118]

[0133] In some scenarios, the indicated cell may include (e.g., may be) a serving cell for the UE, where, in some cases, the CSI-RS may be transmitted by a neighboring cell of the serving cell.

[0119]

[0134] In some scenarios, the indicated cell may include (e.g., may be) a neighbor cell of the serving cell for the UE, where in some cases the CSI-RS may be transmitted by the neighbor cell.

[0120]

[0135] At optional block 1204, the device may determine the timing of the indicated cell. In this case, at block 1206, reception of the CSI-RS may be based on the determined timing.

[0121]

[0136] At block 1206, the apparatus receives the CSI-RS. The cell providing the timing may be the cell transmitting the CSI-RS or some other cell. Thus, in some cases the apparatus receives the CSI-RS from the indicated cell, while in other cases the apparatus receives the CSI-RS from another cell. In some scenarios, receiving the indication may include receiving a CSI-RS configuration for the CSI-RS that includes the indication. In some aspects, the CSI-RS configuration may include an indication of a subcarrier spacing of the CSI-RS. In some aspects, the CSI-RS configuration may include an indication of a timing difference that accounts for a subcarrier spacing between the cell transmitting the CSI-RS and a serving cell for the UE.

[0122]

[0137] At optional block 1208, the apparatus may decode the CSI-RS based on the CSI-RS configuration. In some aspects, the decoding may include determining a scrambling sequence based on the CSI-RS configuration and decoding the CSI-RS based on the scrambling sequence.

[0123]

[0138] In some aspects, the CSI-RS configuration may be based on a timing difference between a serving cell for the UE and the indicated cell. In some aspects, process 1200 may further include determining the timing difference and sending an indication of the timing difference to the serving cell.

[0124]

[0139] In some aspects, process 1200 may further include performing a mobility action associated with the indicated cell based on the CSI-RS.

[0125]

[0140] In some embodiments, a process in accordance with the teachings herein may include any combination of the above operations and / or features.

[0126]

[0141] 13 illustrates a process 1300 for communication in accordance with certain aspects of the present disclosure. Process 1300 may be performed within a processing circuit (e.g., processing circuit 1110 of FIG. 11 ), which may be located in a UE, an access terminal, a gNB, a TRP, a base station, a UE, an access terminal, or some other suitable device. Of course, in various aspects within the scope of the present disclosure, process 1300 may be implemented by any suitable device capable of supporting communication-related operations.

[0127]

[0142] At block 1302, an apparatus (e.g., a UE) determines a timing difference between a first cell and a second cell. For example, the UE may determine a symbol timing difference based on an NR-SS received from the first cell and an NR-SS received from the second cell.

[0128]

[0143] At 1304, the device sends an indication of the timing difference to the first cell.

[0129]

[0144] At block 1306, the device receives a channel state information-reference signal (CSI-RS) configuration based on the timing difference from the first cell.

[0130]

[0145] At block 1308, the apparatus decodes the CSI-RS of the second cell based on the CSI-RS configuration. In some aspects, the decoding may include determining a scrambling sequence based on the CSI-RS configuration and decoding the CSI-RS of the second cell based on the scrambling sequence.

[0131]

[0146] In some aspects, the CSI-RS configuration may include an indication that the timing for the CSI-RS of the second cell is based on the timing of the first cell. In some aspects, the CSI-RS configuration may include an indication that the timing for the CSI-RS of the second cell is based on the timing of the second cell. In some aspects, the timing difference may include a symbol timing difference, a slot timing difference, a minislot timing difference, a system frame number timing difference, or any combination thereof. In some aspects, the CSI-RS configuration may include an indication of the timing difference. In some aspects, the CSI-RS configuration may include timing information based on the timing difference. In some aspects, the CSI-RS configuration may include a scrambling identifier associated with the CSI-RS of the second cell. In some aspects, the CSI-RS configuration may include a seed for obtaining a scrambling identifier associated with the CSI-RS of the second cell. In some aspects, the CSI-RS configuration may include an indication that the CSI-RS of the second cell uses one scrambling sequence over a set of symbols. In some aspects, the CSI-RS configuration may include an indication that the CSI-RS of the second cell uses a different scrambling sequence across the set of symbols.

[0132]

[0147] In some aspects, process 1300 may further include testing a plurality of sequence hypotheses over the set of symbols as a result of receiving an indication of the CSI-RS configuration.

[0133]

[0148] In some aspects, process 1300 may further include performing a mobility action associated with the second cell based on the CSI-RS of the second cell.

[0134]

[0149] In some embodiments, a process in accordance with the teachings herein may include any combination of the above operations and / or features.

[0135]

[0150] FIG. 14 illustrates a block diagram of an example hardware implementation of an apparatus 1400 configured to communicate in accordance with one or more of the present disclosures. The apparatus 1400 can be embodied or implemented within a gNB, a UE, a transmit / receive point (TRP), an access point, or some other type of device that supports wireless communication (with a reference signal) as taught herein. In various implementations, the apparatus 1400 can be embodied or implemented within a base station, an access terminal, or some other type of device. In various implementations, the apparatus 1400 can be embodied or implemented within a server, a network entity, a mobile phone, a smartphone, a tablet, a portable computer, a personal computer, a sensor, an alarm, a vehicle, a machine, an entertainment device, a medical device, or any other electronic device having circuitry.

[0136]

[0151] The apparatus 1400 includes a communication interface 1402 (e.g., at least one transceiver), a storage medium 1404, a user interface 1406, a memory device 1408 (e.g., storing cell information 1418), and a processing circuit 1410 (e.g., at least one processor). In various implementations, the user interface 1406 may include one or more of a keypad, a display, a speaker, a microphone, a touch screen display, or some other circuitry for receiving input from a user or sending output to a user. The communication interface 1402 may be coupled to one or more antennas 1412 and may include a transmitter 1414 and a receiver 1416. In general, the components of FIG. 14 may be similar to corresponding components of the apparatus of FIG. 7.

[0137]

[0152] In accordance with one or more aspects of the disclosure, the processing circuit 1410 may be adapted to perform any or all of the features, processes, functions, operations and / or routines of any or all of the devices described herein. For example, the processing circuit 1410 may be configured to perform any of the steps, functions, and / or processes described in connection with FIGS. 1-6 and 15. As used herein, the term "adapted" with respect to the processing circuit 1410 may refer to one or more of the processing circuit 1410 being configured to, used for, implemented, and / or programmed to perform particular processes, functions, operations and / or routines in accordance with various features described herein.

[0138]

[0153] The processing circuit 1410 may be a specialized processor, such as an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), that serves as a means for performing (e.g., a structure for performing) any one of the operations described in conjunction with Figures 1-6, 12, and 15. The processing circuit 1410 may serve as one example of a means for transmitting and / or a means for receiving. In various implementations, the processing circuit 1410 may provide and / or incorporate at least the functionality described above for the neighbor cell 206 of Figure 2.

[0139]

[0154] In accordance with at least one example of the apparatus 1400, the processing circuit 1410 may include one or more of a circuit / module for receiving 1420, a circuit / module for generating CSI-RS 1422, or a circuit / module for transmitting 1424. In various implementations, the processing circuit 1410, the circuit / module for receiving 1420, the circuit / module for generating CSI-RS 1422, or the circuit / module for transmitting 1424 may provide and / or incorporate, at least in part, the functionality described above for the neighboring cell 206 of FIG.

[0140]

[0155] As mentioned above, the programming stored by the storage medium 1404, when executed by the processing circuit 1410, causes the processing circuit 1410 to perform one or more of the various functions and / or processing operations described herein. For example, the programming may cause the processing circuit 1410 to perform the various functions, steps, and / or processes described herein with respect to FIGS. 1-6 and 15 in various implementations. As shown in FIG. 14, the storage medium 1404 may include one or more of code for receiving 1430, code for generating a CSI-RS 1432, or code for transmitting 1434. In various implementations, the code for receiving 1430, code for generating a CSI-RS 1432, or code for transmitting 1434 may be executed or otherwise used to provide the functionality described herein for the circuit / module for receiving 1420, the circuit / module for generating a CSI-RS 1422, or the circuit / module for transmitting 1424. Processing of the Sixth Example

[0141]

[0156] 15 illustrates a process 1500 for communication in accordance with certain aspects of the present disclosure. Process 1500 may be performed within a processing circuit (e.g., processing circuit 1410 of FIG. 14 ), which may be located in a UE, an access terminal, a gNB, a TRP, a base station, a UE, an access terminal, or some other suitable device. Of course, in various aspects within the scope of the present disclosure, process 1500 may be implemented by any suitable device capable of supporting communication-related operations.

[0142]

[0157] At block 1502, an apparatus (e.g., a gNG) receives an indication of timing for a channel state information-reference signal (CSI-RS) to be transmitted by a first cell.

[0143]

[0158] At block 1504, the apparatus may receive a scrambling sequence indication.

[0144]

[0159] At block 1506, the device generates a CSI-RS.

[0145]

[0160] At block 1508, the device outputs the CSI-RS for transmission at a time based on the received timing indication.

[0146]

[0161] In some aspects, the indication may indicate when the first cell transmits CSI-RS. In some aspects, the indication may include at least one offset between a transmission of CSI-RS by the first cell and a transmission of at least one CSI-RS by at least one other cell. In some aspects, the indication may indicate that the first cell transmits CSI-RS based on a timing of the first cell. In some aspects, the indication may indicate that the first cell transmits CSI-RS based on a timing of the second cell. In some aspects, the indication may indicate a timing difference between the first cell and the second cell to be used for transmission of CSI-RS by the first cell. In some aspects, the timing difference may include a symbol timing difference, a slot timing difference, a minislot timing difference, a system frame number timing difference, or any combination thereof. In some aspects, process 1500 may further include receiving another indication that CSI-RS transmissions by the first cell will use one scrambling sequence across the set of symbols, where the CSI-RS transmissions by the first cell use one scrambling sequence across the set of symbols as a result of receiving the another indication. In some aspects, process 1500 may further include receiving another indication that CSI-RS transmissions by the first cell will use a different scrambling sequence across the set of symbols, where the CSI-RS transmissions by the first cell use different scrambling sequences across the set of symbols as a result of receiving the another indication.

[0147]

[0162] In some aspects, processes in accordance with the teachings herein may include any combination of the above operations and / or features.

[0148]

[0163] In some aspects, the present disclosure provides a method of communication that includes determining a timing difference between a first cell and a second cell, determining a channel state information-reference signal (CSI-RS) configuration for the second cell based on the timing difference, and sending the CSI-RS configuration to a user equipment (UE) served by the first cell.

[0149]

[0164] In some aspects, the present disclosure provides an apparatus for communication including a memory device and a processing circuit coupled to the memory, the processing circuit configured to: determine a timing difference between a first cell and a second cell, determine a channel state information-reference signal (CSI-RS) configuration for the second cell based on the timing difference, and send the CSI-RS configuration to a user equipment (UE) served by the first cell.

[0150]

[0165] In some aspects, the present disclosure provides an apparatus configured for communication, the apparatus including means for determining a timing difference between a first cell and a second cell, means for determining a channel state information-reference signal (CSI-RS) configuration for the second cell based on the timing difference, and means for sending the CSI-RS configuration to a user equipment (UE) served by the first cell.

[0151]

[0166] In some aspects, the present disclosure provides a non-transitory computer-readable medium that stores computer-executable code including code for determining a timing difference between a first cell and a second cell, determining a channel state information-reference signal (CSI-RS) configuration for the second cell based on the timing difference, and sending the CSI-RS configuration to a user equipment (UE) served by the first cell.

[0152]

[0167] In some aspects, the present disclosure provides a method of communication that includes determining a timing difference between a first cell and a second cell, sending an indication of the timing difference to the first cell, receiving a channel state information-reference signal (CSI-RS) configuration from the first cell that is based on the timing difference, and decoding CSI-RS of the second cell based on the CSI-RS configuration.

[0153]

[0168] In some aspects, the present disclosure provides an apparatus for communication including a memory device and a processing circuit coupled to the memory, the processing circuit configured to determine a timing difference between a first cell and a second cell, send an indication of the timing difference to the first cell, receive a channel state information-reference signal (CSI-RS) configuration from the first cell based on the timing difference, and decode CSI-RS of the second cell based on the CSI-RS configuration.

[0154]

[0169] In some aspects, the present disclosure provides an apparatus configured for communication, the apparatus including means for determining a timing difference between a first cell and a second cell, means for sending an indication of the timing difference to the first cell, means for receiving a channel state information-reference signal (CSI-RS) configuration from the first cell based on the timing difference, and means for decoding CSI-RS of the second cell based on the CSI-RS configuration.

[0155]

[0170] In some aspects, the present disclosure provides a non-transitory computer-readable medium that stores computer-executable code including code for determining a timing difference between a first cell and a second cell, sending an indication of the timing difference to the first cell, receiving a channel state information-reference signal (CSI-RS) configuration from the first cell that is based on the timing difference, and decoding the CSI-RS of the second cell based on the CSI-RS configuration.

[0156]

[0171] In some aspects, the present disclosure provides a method of communication that includes determining timing for a channel state information-reference signal (CSI-RS) of a first cell and sending an indication of the determined timing to the first cell.

[0157]

[0172] In some aspects, the present disclosure provides an apparatus for communication including a memory device and a processing circuit coupled to the memory, the processing circuit configured to determine a timing for a channel state information-reference signal (CSI-RS) of a first cell and send an indication of the determined timing to the first cell.

[0158]

[0173] In some aspects, the present disclosure provides an apparatus configured for communication, the apparatus including means for determining timing for a channel state information-reference signal (CSI-RS) of a first cell and means for sending an indication of the determined timing to the first cell.

[0159]

[0174] In some aspects, the present disclosure provides a non-transitory computer-readable medium that stores computer-executable code including code for determining timing for a channel state information-reference signal (CSI-RS) of a first cell and sending an indication of the determined timing to the first cell.

[0160]

[0175] In some aspects, the present disclosure provides a method of communication that includes receiving a timing indication for a channel state information-reference signal (CSI-RS) transmitted by a first cell and outputting the CSI-RS for transmission at a time based on the received timing indication.

[0161]

[0176] In some aspects, the present disclosure provides an apparatus for communication that includes a memory device and a processing circuit coupled to the memory, the processing circuit configured to receive an indication of timing for a channel state information-reference signal (CSI-RS) transmitted by a first cell and output the CSI-RS for transmission at a time based on the received indication of timing.

[0162]

[0177] In some aspects, the present disclosure provides an apparatus configured for communication, the apparatus including means for receiving an indication of timing for a channel state information-reference signal (CSI-RS) transmitted by a first cell, and means for outputting the CSI-RS for transmission at a time based on the received indication of timing.

[0163]

[0178] In some aspects, the present disclosure provides a non-transitory computer-readable medium that stores computer-executable code including code for receiving an indication of timing for a Channel State Information - Reference Signal (CSI-RS) transmitted by a first cell and outputting the CSI-RS for transmission at a time based on the received indication of timing.

[0164]

[0179] The examples described herein are provided to illustrate certain concepts of the present disclosure. Those skilled in the art will recognize that these are merely examples in nature, and that other examples are included within the scope of the present disclosure and the appended claims.

[0165]

[0180] Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the various aspects described throughout this disclosure may be extended to any suitable telecommunications system, network architecture, and communication standard. By way of example, the various aspects may be applied to 3GPP 5G systems and / or other suitable systems, including those described by wide area network standards yet to be defined. The various aspects may also be applied to systems employing LTE (in FDD, TDD, or both modes), LTE-Advanced (LTE-A) (in FDD, TDD, or both modes), Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS), Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA), CDMA2000, Evolution Data Optimized (EV-DO), Ultra Mobile Broadband (UMB), IEEE 802.11 (Wi-Fi), IEEE 802.16 (WiMAX), IEEE 802.20, Ultra Wideband (UWB), Bluetooth, and / or other suitable systems. Various aspects may also be applied to UMTS, such as W-CDMA, TD-SCDMA, and TD-CDMA. The actual telecommunications standard, network architecture, and / or communications standard used will depend on the overall design constraints imposed on the system and the particular application.

[0166]

[0181] Many aspects are described in terms of a sequence of actions to be performed by, for example, elements of a computing device. It should be understood that various aspects described herein may be performed by specific circuitry, such as, for example, a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a digital signal processor (DSP), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), or various other types of general purpose or special purpose processors or circuits, by program instructions executed by one or more processors, or by a combination of both. Furthermore, these sequences of actions described herein may be considered to be entirely embodied in any form of computer-readable storage medium having stored thereon a corresponding set of computer instructions that, when executed, cause an associated processor to perform the functionality described herein. Thus, various aspects of the present disclosure may be embodied in several different forms, all of which are contemplated as being within the scope of the claimed subject matter. In addition, for each of the aspects described herein, the corresponding form of any such aspect may be described herein, for example, as "logic configured to" perform the described actions.

[0167]

[0182] Those skilled in the art will recognize that information and signals may be represented using any of a variety of different technologies and techniques. For example, the data, instructions, commands, information, signals, bits, symbols, and chips that may be referenced throughout the above description may be represented by voltages, currents, electromagnetic waves, magnetic fields or particles, optical fields or particles, or any combination thereof.

[0168]

[0183] Moreover, those skilled in the art will recognize that the various illustrative logical blocks, modules, circuits, and algorithm steps described in connection with the aspects disclosed herein can be implemented as electronic hardware, computer software, or a combination of both. To clearly illustrate this interchangeability of hardware and software, various illustrative components, blocks, modules, circuits, and steps have been described above generally in terms of their functionality. Whether such functionality is implemented as hardware or software depends upon the particular application and design constraints imposed on the overall system. Those skilled in the art may implement the described functionality in varying ways for each particular application, but such implementation decisions should not be interpreted as causing a departure from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0169]

[0184] One or more of the components, steps, features and / or functions illustrated above may be rearranged and / or combined into a single component, step, feature or function, or embodied in several components, steps or functions. Additional elements, components, steps and / or functions may also be added without departing from the novel features disclosed herein. The apparatus, devices and / or components described above may be configured to perform one or more of the methods, features or steps described herein. The novel algorithms described herein may also be efficiently implemented in software and / or incorporated into hardware.

[0170]

[0185] It should be understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps in the methods disclosed is an example of an example process. Based on design preferences, it is understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps in the methods may be rearranged. The accompanying method claims present elements of the various steps in a sample order, and are not intended to be limited to the specific order or hierarchy presented, unless otherwise stated herein.

[0171]

[0186] The methods, sequences, or algorithms described in connection with the aspects disclosed herein may be embodied directly in hardware, in a software module executed by a processor, or in a combination of the two. The software module may reside in RAM memory, flash memory, ROM memory, EPROM memory, EEPROM memory, registers, a hard disk, a removable disk, a CD-ROM, or any other form of storage medium known in the art. An example of a storage medium is coupled to the processor such that the processor can read information from, and write information to, the storage medium. Alternatively, the storage medium may be integral to the processor.

[0172]

[0187] The word "exemplary" is used herein to mean "serving as an example, instance, or illustration." Any aspect described herein as "exemplary" is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects.

[0173]

[0188] Similarly, the term "aspect" does not require that all embodiments include the described feature, advantage, or mode of operation. Based on the teachings herein, one skilled in the art should understand that the aspects disclosed herein can be practiced independently of any other aspect, and that two or more of these aspects can be combined in various ways. For example, an apparatus can be implemented or a method can be practiced using any number of the aspects described herein. Furthermore, such an apparatus can be implemented or such a method can be practiced using other structure, function, or structure and functionality in addition to or other than one or more of the aspects described herein. Furthermore, an aspect may comprise at least one element of a claim.

[0174]

[0189] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular aspects only and is not intended to be limiting of these aspects. As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" are intended to include the plural unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms "comprise", "comprising", "including", and / or "including", as used herein, specify the presence of the stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. It will further be understood that the term "or" has the same meaning as the Boolean operator "OR", i.e., it includes the possibilities of "either" and "both", and is not limited to "exclusive or" ("XOR") unless expressly stated otherwise. It will also be understood that the symbol " / " between two adjacent terms has the same meaning as "or" unless expressly stated otherwise. Additionally, phrases such as "connected to," "coupled to," and "in communication with" are not limited to a direct connection, unless expressly stated to the contrary.

[0175]

[0190] Any reference to elements herein using designations such as "first," "second," etc. generally does not limit the quantity or order of those elements. Rather, these designations may be used herein as a convenient way of distinguishing between two or more elements or instances of an element. Thus, reference to a first element and a second element does not imply that only two elements may be used therein, or that the first element must precede the second element in any way. Also, unless otherwise stated, a set of elements may comprise one or more elements. In addition, a term of the form "at least one of a, b, or c," or "a, b, c, or any combination thereof," used in the specification or claims, means "a or b or c, or any combination of those elements." For example, the term may include a, or b, or c, or a and b, or a and c, or a and b and c, or 2a, or 2b, or 2c, or 2a and b, etc.

[0176]

[0191] As used herein, the term "determining" encompasses a wide range of actions. For example, "determining" can include calculating, computing, processing, deriving, investigating, looking up (e.g., looking up a table, database, or another data structure), ascertaining, and the like. Also, "determining" can include receiving (e.g., receiving information), accessing (e.g., accessing data in a memory), and the like. Also, "determining" can include resolving, selecting, choosing, establishing, and the like.

[0177]

[0192] While the foregoing disclosure sets forth exemplary embodiments, it should be noted that various changes and modifications can be made herein without departing from the scope of the appended claims. The functions, steps, or actions of the method claims in accordance with the embodiments described herein do not have to be performed in any particular order, unless expressly stated otherwise. Further, although elements may be described or claimed in the singular, the plural is contemplated unless limitation to the singular is expressly stated. The invention as described in the claims of the original application is set forth below. [C1] 1. A method of communication for an apparatus, comprising: identifying a cell that provides timing for a channel state information-reference signal (CSI-RS); sending an indication of the identified cell to a user equipment (UE); A method comprising: [C2] the identified cell comprises a serving cell for the UE. The method according to C1. [C3] The CSI-RS is transmitted by a neighboring cell of the serving cell. The method according to C2. [C4] the identified cells comprise neighboring cells of a serving cell for the UE. The method according to C1. [C5] The CSI-RS is transmitted by the neighboring cell. The method described in C4. [C6] The method further comprises determining a CSI-RS configuration for the CSI-RS; the CSI-RS configuration includes the indication of the identified cell; and sending the indication to the UE comprises sending the CSI-RS configuration to the UE. The method according to C1. [C7] the CSI-RS configuration comprises an indication of subcarrier spacing of the CSI-RS. The method according to C6. [C8] the CSI-RS configuration comprises an indication of a timing difference that takes into account a subcarrier spacing between a cell transmitting the CSI-RS and a serving cell for the UE. The method according to C6. [C9] determining a timing difference between a cell transmitting the CSI-RS and a serving cell for the UE; the determining of the CSI-RS configuration is based on the timing difference. The method according to C6. [C10] the timing difference comprises a symbol timing difference. The method according to C9. [C11] the timing difference comprises a slot timing difference, a minislot timing difference, a system frame number timing difference, or any combination thereof; The method according to C9. [C12] and wherein the determining of the timing difference comprises receiving an indication of the timing difference from the UE. The method according to C1. [C13] and sending a request to the UE to measure the timing difference. The method according to C1. [C14] The determining of the timing difference comprises: receiving a first indication of the timing difference from the UE and at least one second indication of the timing difference from at least one other UE; generating an estimate of the timing difference based on the first indication of the timing difference and the at least one second indication of the timing difference; and The method of claim C1, comprising: [C15] An apparatus for communication, comprising: A memory device; a processing circuit coupled to the memory device; The processing circuitry comprises: identifying a cell that provides timing for a channel state information-reference signal (CSI-RS); sending an indication of the identified cell to a user equipment (UE); An apparatus configured to: [C16] the identified cell comprises a serving cell for the UE. The apparatus described in C15. [C17] The CSI-RS is transmitted by a neighboring cell of the serving cell. The apparatus described in C16. [C18] the identified cells comprise neighboring cells of a serving cell for the UE. The apparatus described in C15. [C19] The CSI-RS is transmitted by the neighboring cell. The apparatus described in C18. [C20] The processing circuitry is further configured to determine a CSI-RS configuration for the CSI-RS; the CSI-RS configuration includes an indication of the identified cell; and sending the indication to the UE comprises sending the CSI-RS configuration to the UE. The apparatus described in C15. [C21] the CSI-RS configuration comprises an indication of subcarrier spacing of the CSI-RS. The apparatus described in C20. [C22] the CSI-RS configuration comprises an indication of a timing difference that takes into account a subcarrier spacing between a cell transmitting the CSI-RS and a serving cell for the UE. The apparatus described in C20. [C23] The processing circuitry is further configured to determine a timing difference between a cell transmitting the CSI-RS and a serving cell for the UE; the determining of the CSI-RS configuration is based on the timing difference. The apparatus described in C15. [C24] and wherein the determining of the timing difference comprises receiving an indication of the timing difference from the UE. The apparatus described in C23. [C25] The processing circuitry includes: and further configured to send a request to the UE to measure the timing difference. The apparatus described in C15. [C26] An apparatus for communication, comprising: means for identifying a cell that provides timing for a channel state information - reference signal (CSI-RS); means for sending an indication of the identified cell to a user equipment (UE); An apparatus comprising: [C27] The apparatus further comprises means for determining a CSI-RS configuration for the CSI-RS, the CSI-RS configuration includes an indication of the identified cell; and sending the indication to the UE comprises sending the CSI-RS configuration to the UE. The apparatus described in C26. [C28] The apparatus further comprises means for determining a timing difference between a cell transmitting the CSI-RS and a serving cell for the UE; the determining of the CSI-RS configuration is based on the timing difference. The apparatus described in C26. [C29] means for sending a request to the UE to measure the timing difference; The apparatus described in C26. [C30] A non-transitory computer-readable medium, comprising: identifying a cell that provides timing for a channel state information-reference signal (CSI-RS); sending an indication of the identified cell to a user equipment (UE); A non-transitory computer readable medium storing computer executable code including code for performing the steps of: [C31] 1. A method of communication for an apparatus, comprising: receiving an indication of a cell that provides timing for receiving a channel state information reference signal (CSI-RS) at a user equipment (UE); receiving the CSI-RS; A method comprising: [C32] determining the timing of the indicated cells; the reception of the CSI-RS is based on the determined timing. The method according to C31. [C33] the indicated cell comprises a serving cell for the UE. The method according to C31. [C34] The CSI-RS is transmitted by a neighboring cell of the serving cell. The method according to C33. [C35] the indicated cells comprise neighboring cells of a serving cell for the UE. The method according to C31. [C36] The CSI-RS is transmitted by the neighboring cell. The method according to C35. [C37] and receiving the indication comprises receiving a CSI-RS configuration for the CSI-RS that includes the indication. The method according to C31. [C38] and decoding the CSI-RS based on the CSI-RS configuration. The method described in C37. [C39] The decoding step comprises: determining a scrambling sequence based on the CSI-RS configuration; and decoding the CSI-RS based on the scrambling sequence; The method of C38, further comprising: [C40] the CSI-RS configuration comprises an indication of subcarrier spacing of the CSI-RS. The method described in C37. [C41] the CSI-RS configuration comprises an indication of a timing difference that takes into account a subcarrier spacing between a cell transmitting the CSI-RS and a serving cell for the UE. The method described in C37. [C42] the CSI-RS configuration is based on a timing difference between a serving cell for the UE and the indicated cell. The method described in C37. [C43] determining the timing difference; sending an indication of the timing difference to the serving cell; and The method of C42, further comprising: [C44] performing a mobility action associated with the indicated cell based on the CSI-RS. The method according to C31. [C45] An apparatus for communication, comprising: A memory device; a processing circuit coupled to the memory device, the processing circuit comprising: receiving an indication of a cell that provides timing for receiving a channel state information reference signal (CSI-RS) at a user equipment (UE); receiving the CSI-RS; An apparatus configured to: [C46] the processing circuitry is further configured to determine the timing of the indicated cells; the reception of the CSI-RS is based on the determined timing. The apparatus described in C45. [C47] and receiving the indication comprises receiving a CSI-RS configuration for the CSI-RS that includes the indication. The apparatus described in C45. [C48] The processing circuitry includes: and further configured to: decode the CSI-RS based on the CSI-RS configuration. The apparatus described in C47. [C49] the CSI-RS configuration is based on a timing difference between a serving cell for the UE and the indicated cell. The apparatus described in C47. [C50] The processing circuitry includes: determining the timing difference; sending an indication of the timing difference to the serving cell; and The apparatus of C49, further configured to: [C51] The processing circuitry includes: performing a mobility action associated with the indicated cell based on the CSI-RS. The apparatus described in C45. [C52] An apparatus for communication, comprising: means for receiving an indication of a cell that provides timing for receiving a channel state information reference signal (CSI-RS) at a user equipment (UE); means for receiving the CSI-RS; An apparatus comprising: [C53] The apparatus further comprises means for determining the timing of the indicated cell; the reception of the CSI-RS is based on the determined timing. The apparatus described in C52. [C54] and receiving the indication comprises receiving a CSI-RS configuration for the CSI-RS that includes the indication. The apparatus described in C52. [C55] means for decoding the CSI-RS based on the CSI-RS configuration. The apparatus described in C54. [C56] the CSI-RS configuration is based on a timing difference between a serving cell for the UE and the indicated cell. The apparatus described in C54. [C57] means for determining said timing difference; and means for sending an indication of the timing difference to the serving cell. [C58] and means for performing a mobility action associated with the indicated cell based on the CSI-RS. The apparatus described in C52. [C59] A non-transitory computer-readable medium, comprising: receiving an indication of a cell that provides timing for receiving a channel state information reference signal (CSI-RS) at a user equipment (UE); receiving the CSI-RS; A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing computer-executable code, the non-transitory computer-readable medium including code for performing the steps of:

Claims

1. 1. A method of communication for a base station, comprising: By the base station, determining that a serving cell for a user equipment (UE) provides timing to be used by the UE to measure a channel state information-reference signal (CSI-RS); determining that neighboring cells of the serving cell transmit the CSI-RS; determining a timing difference between the serving cell and the neighboring cell; transmitting an indication of the timing difference to the neighboring cell as a result of the neighboring cell of the serving cell determining to transmit the CSI-RS, wherein the timing difference comprises a symbol timing difference. generating a CSI-RS configuration for the CSI-RS based on determining that the serving cell for the UE provides the timing to be used by the UE to measure the CSI-RS and determining that the neighboring cells of the serving cell transmit the CSI-RS, wherein the CSI-RS configuration comprises an indication that the UE will use the timing of the serving cell to measure the CSI-RS. transmitting the CSI-RS configuration comprising the indication to the UE; A method comprising:

2. the CSI-RS configuration comprises an indication of a subcarrier spacing of the CSI-RS. The method of claim 1.

3. the timing difference further comprises a slot timing difference, a minislot timing difference, a system frame number timing difference, or any combination thereof; The method of claim 1.

4. and wherein the determining of the timing difference comprises receiving an indication of the timing difference from the UE. The method of claim 1.

5. sending a request to the UE to measure the timing difference. The method according to claim 4.

6. The determining of the timing difference comprises: receiving a first indication of the timing difference from the UE and at least one second indication of the timing difference from at least one other UE; generating an estimate of the timing difference based on the first indication of the timing difference and the at least one second indication of the timing difference; The method of claim 1 , comprising:

7. A base station for communications, comprising: A memory device; a processing circuit coupled to the memory device; Equipped with The processing circuitry of the base station determining that a serving cell for a user equipment (UE) provides timing to be used by the UE to measure a channel state information-reference signal (CSI-RS); determining that neighboring cells of the serving cell transmit the CSI-RS; determining a timing difference between the serving cell and the neighboring cell; transmitting an indication of the timing difference to the neighboring cell as a result of the neighboring cell of the serving cell determining to transmit the CSI-RS, wherein the timing difference comprises a symbol timing difference. generating a CSI-RS configuration for the CSI-RS based on the determination that the serving cell for the UE provides the timing to be used by the UE to measure the CSI-RS and the determination that the neighboring cells of the serving cell transmit the CSI-RS, wherein the CSI-RS configuration comprises an indication that the UE will use the timing of the serving cell to measure the CSI-RS. transmitting the CSI-RS configuration comprising the indication to the UE; A base station configured to:

8. 1. A method of communication for a user equipment (UE), comprising: By the UE, determining a timing difference between a serving cell of the UE and a neighboring cell of the serving cell; transmitting an indication of the timing difference to the serving cell, where the timing difference comprises a symbol timing difference. receiving a channel state information reference signal (CSI-RS) configuration for a CSI-RS to be transmitted by the neighboring cell, wherein the CSI-RS configuration comprises an indication that the UE uses timing of the serving cell to measure the CSI-RS. determining the timing of the serving cell; and using the timing of the serving cell to measure the CSI-RS transmitted by the neighboring cell; A method comprising:

9. and decoding the CSI-RS based on the CSI-RS configuration. The method according to claim 8.

10. The decoding step comprises: determining a scrambling sequence based on the CSI-RS configuration; decoding the CSI-RS based on the scrambling sequence; The method of claim 9 comprising:

11. the CSI-RS configuration comprises an indication of a subcarrier spacing of the CSI-RS. The method according to claim 8.

12. performing a mobility operation associated with the neighboring cell based on the CSI-RS. The method according to claim 8.

13. A user equipment (UE), A memory device; a processing circuit coupled to the memory device; The processing circuitry of the UE determining a timing difference between a serving cell of the UE and a neighboring cell of the serving cell; transmitting an indication of the timing difference to the serving cell, where the timing difference comprises a symbol timing difference. receiving a channel state information reference signal (CSI-RS) configuration for CSI-RS to be transmitted by the neighboring cell of a serving cell for the UE, wherein the CSI-RS configuration comprises an indication that the UE uses timing of the serving cell to measure the CSI-RS. determining the timing of the serving cell; and using the timing of the serving cell to measure the CSI-RS transmitted by the neighboring cell; A user equipment configured to:

14. transmitting CSI-RS timing information to the neighboring cells. The method of claim 1.

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