Access Points

Abstract

To provide an access point for executing a new communication method capable of improving the data transmission speed.SOLUTION: An access point 5000 includes: a first interface 5001 that performs wireless communication with a first band; a second interface 5002 that performs wireless communication with a second band; and a control unit 5003 that selects one of the three different methods of RTS (Request to Send) / CTS (Clear to Send) control using at least one of the first interface 5001 and the second interface 5002 to perform RTS / CTS control using the selected method with the terminal.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 50

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an access point and a communication method. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventional wireless communication methods for wireless LANs (Local Area Networks) include IEEE 802.11a and IEEE 802.11ax, which are described in Non-Patent Document 1 and Non-Patent Document 2. IEEE 802.11ax is a wireless communication method that uses a maximum frequency bandwidth of 160 MHz in the 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz band. This wireless communication method employs a communication method called MIMO (Multiple-Input Multiple-Out), which uses multiple antennas to simultaneously transmit multiple streams of modulated signals at the same frequency (common frequency), thereby improving data reception quality and / or increasing data communication speed (per unit time). [Prior art documents] [Non-patent literature]

[0003] [Non-Patent Document 1] IEEE Draft Standard for Information Technology -- Telecommunications and Information Exchange Between Systems Local and Metropolitan Area Networks -- Specific Requirements - Part 11: Wireless LAN Medium Access Control (MAC) and Physical Layer (PHY) Specifications IEEE P802.11-REVmd / D1.0, February 2018 [Non-patent document 2] "IEEE 802.11ax: High-efficiency WLANS" IEEE Wireless Communications, vol.23, no.1, 2016. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] If restrictions are placed on the size of communication devices, it will be difficult to install more than a certain number of antennas, and new communication methods will need to be introduced to further improve data transmission speeds.

[0005] Therefore, the present invention provides an access point or the like that executes a new communication method for further improving data transmission speed. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] An access point according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a first interface that performs wireless communication in a first band, a second interface that performs wireless communication in a second band different from the first band, and a control unit that performs RTS (Request to Send) / CTS (Clear to Send) control with a terminal using at least one of the first interface and the second interface, wherein the control unit is an access point that, in the RTS / CTS control, simultaneously transmits RTS signals addressed to multiple terminals in each of the first band and the second band, and receives CTS signals transmitted in response to the RTS signals.

[0007] These comprehensive or specific aspects may be realized as a system, a method, an integrated circuit, a computer program, or a recording medium such as a computer-readable CD-ROM, or may be realized as any combination of a system, a method, an integrated circuit, a computer program, and a recording medium. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present disclosure, one or more frequency bands can be suitably selected and used, thereby achieving the effect of improving the data transmission speed of a communication system. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a communication device. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing transmission and reception of modulated signals. [Figure 3A] FIG. 3A is a diagram showing the configuration of an RTS signal. [Figure 3B] FIG. 3B is a diagram showing the configuration of the MU-RTS signal. [Figure 3C] FIG. 3C is a diagram showing the configuration of an MC-MU-RTS signal. [Figure 4A] FIG. 4A is a diagram illustrating an example of a frame configuration. [Figure 4B] FIG. 4B is a diagram illustrating an example of a frame configuration. [Figure 5A] FIG. 5A is a diagram illustrating an example of a frame configuration. [Figure 5B] FIG. 5B is a diagram illustrating an example of a frame configuration. [Figure 5C] FIG. 5C is a diagram illustrating an example of a frame configuration. [Figure 5D] FIG. 5D is a diagram illustrating an example of a frame configuration. [Figure 5E] FIG. 5E is a diagram illustrating an example of a frame configuration. [Figure 5F] FIG. 5F is a diagram illustrating an example of a frame configuration. [Figure 5G] FIG. 5G is a diagram showing an example of a frame structure. [Figure 5H] FIG. 5H is a diagram showing an example of a frame structure. [Figure 5I] FIG. 5I is a diagram showing an example of a frame structure. [Figure 5J] FIG. 5J is a diagram illustrating an example of a frame configuration. [Figure 5K] FIG. 5K is a diagram showing an example of a frame structure. [Figure 6A] FIG. 6A is a diagram showing an example of a data symbol configuration. [Figure 6B] FIG. 6B is a diagram showing an example of a data symbol configuration. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a frame configuration. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of a frame configuration. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a frame configuration. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a frame configuration. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a frame configuration. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of a frame configuration. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a frame configuration. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of a frame configuration. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating an example of a frame configuration. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating an example of a frame configuration. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating an example of a frame configuration. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating an example of a frame configuration. [Figure 19A] FIG. 19A is a diagram illustrating an example of a communication state of an access point. [Figure 19B] FIG. 19B is a diagram illustrating an example of a communication state of an access point. [Figure 20A] FIG. 20A is a diagram showing the configuration of a transmission unit included in a transmission / reception device. [Figure 20B] FIG. 20B is a diagram showing the configuration of a receiving unit included in the transmitting / receiving device. [Figure 21A] FIG. 21A is a diagram showing a frequency band in which a modulated signal is transmitted. [Figure 21B] FIG. 21B is a diagram showing a frequency band in which a modulated signal is transmitted. [Figure 21C] FIG. 21C is a diagram showing a frequency band in which a modulated signal is transmitted. [Figure 22A] FIG. 22A is a diagram showing an example of RTS transmission. [Figure 22B] FIG. 22B is a diagram showing an example of CTS transmission. [Figure 22C] FIG. 22C is a diagram illustrating an example of transmitting symbol groups. [Figure 23A] FIG. 23A is a diagram showing an example of CTS transmission. [Figure 23B] FIG. 23B is a diagram illustrating an example of transmitting symbol groups. [Figure 24A] FIG. 24A is a diagram showing an example of CTS transmission. [Figure 24B] FIG. 24B is a diagram illustrating an example of transmitting symbol groups. [Figure 25A] FIG. 25A is a diagram showing an example of CTS transmission. [Figure 25B] FIG. 25B is a diagram illustrating an example of transmitting symbol groups. [Figure 26A] FIG. 26A is a diagram showing an example of RTS transmission. [Figure 26B] FIG. 26B is a diagram showing an example of CTS transmission. [Figure 26C] FIG. 26C is a diagram showing an example of transmitting symbol groups. [Figure 27A] FIG. 27A is a diagram showing an example of RTS transmission. [Figure 27B] FIG. 27B is a diagram showing an example of CTS transmission. [Figure 27C] FIG. 27C is a diagram illustrating an example of transmitting symbol groups. [Figure 28A] FIG. 28A is a diagram showing an example of RTS transmission. [Figure 28B] FIG. 28B is a diagram showing an example of CTS transmission. [Figure 28C] FIG. 28C is a diagram illustrating an example of transmitting symbol groups. [Figure 29A] FIG. 29A is a diagram showing an example of RTS transmission. [Figure 29B] FIG. 29B is a diagram showing an example of CTS transmission. [Figure 29C] FIG. 29C is a diagram showing an example of CTS transmission. [Figure 29D] FIG. 29D is a diagram showing an example of transmitting symbol groups. [Figure 30] FIG. 30 is a diagram illustrating an example of communication between a terminal and an access point. [Figure 31A] FIG. 31A is a diagram showing an example of RTS transmission. [Figure 31B] FIG. 31B is a diagram showing an example of CTS transmission. [Figure 31C] FIG. 31C is a diagram illustrating an example of transmitting symbol groups. [Figure 32] FIG. 32 is a diagram illustrating an example of communication between a terminal and an access point. [Figure 33A] FIG. 33A is a diagram showing an example of RTS transmission. [Figure 33B] FIG. 33B is a diagram showing an example of CTS transmission. [Figure 33C] FIG. 33C is a diagram showing an example of CTS transmission. [Figure 33D] FIG. 33D is a diagram showing an example of transmitting symbol groups. [Figure 34] FIG. 34 is a diagram showing an example of transmitting symbols. [Figure 35] FIG. 35 is a diagram showing an example of transmitting symbols. [Figure 36] FIG. 36 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a data frame. [Figure 37] FIG. 37 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a beacon frame. [Figure 38] FIG. 38 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a probe request frame. [Figure 39] FIG. 39 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a probe response frame. [Figure 40] FIG. 40 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of an association request frame. [Figure 41]FIG. 41 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of an association response frame. [Figure 42] FIG. 42 shows the state of the system. [Figure 43] FIG. 43 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a terminal. [Figure 44] FIG. 44 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of an association request frame. [Figure 45] FIG. 45 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of an association request frame. [Figure 46] FIG. 46 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of an association response frame. [Figure 47] FIG. 47 illustrates an example of the configuration of an association response frame. [Figure 48] FIG. 48 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a beacon frame. [Figure 49] FIG. 49 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a beacon frame. [Figure 50] FIG. 50 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of an access point. [Figure 51] FIG. 51 is a flow diagram illustrating an example of a communication method performed by an access point. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] An access point according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a first interface that performs wireless communication in a first band, a second interface that performs wireless communication in a second band different from the first band, and a control unit that performs RTS (Request to Send) / CTS (Clear to Send) control with a terminal using at least one of the first interface and the second interface, wherein the control unit is an access point that, in the RTS / CTS control, simultaneously transmits RTS signals addressed to multiple terminals in each of the first band and the second band, and receives CTS signals transmitted in response to the RTS signals.

[0011] A communication method according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is a communication method executed by an access point having a first interface that performs wireless communication in a first band and a second interface that performs wireless communication in a second band different from the first band, and includes a control step of performing RTS (Request to Send) / CTS (Clear to Send) control with a terminal using at least one of the first interface and the second interface, and in the RTS / CTS control in the control step, simultaneously transmitting RTS signals addressed to multiple terminals in each of the first band and the second band, and receiving CTS signals transmitted in response to the RTS signals.

[0012] An access point according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises a first interface that performs wireless communication in a first band, a second interface that performs wireless communication in a second band different from the first band, and a control unit that uses at least one of the first interface and the second interface to select one RTS (Request to Send) / CTS (Clear to Send) control method from three mutually different methods and performs RTS / CTS control of the selected method with a terminal, wherein the first of the three methods is a method of transmitting a first RTS signal in the first band or the second band and receiving a first CTS signal transmitted in response to the first RTS signal, the second of the three methods is a method of transmitting a second RTS signal addressed to multiple terminals in the first band or the second band and receiving a second CTS signal transmitted in response to the second RTS signal, and the third of the three methods is a method of transmitting a third RTS signal addressed to multiple terminals in each of the first band and the second band and receiving a third CTS signal transmitted in response to the third RTS signal.

[0013] According to the above aspect, the access point can secure communication opportunities with the terminal by selecting one of the three RTS / CTS control methods. This can contribute to improving the data transmission speed of communication between the access point and the terminal. In this way, the access point aims to improve the data transmission speed of the communication system.

[0014] For example, after receiving a CTS signal through RTS / CTS control in the one method, the control unit may transmit communication data using at least one of the resource units in which the CTS signal was received.

[0015] According to the above aspect, the access point can use a resource unit for which a CTS signal has been returned in the RTS / CTS control for communication with a terminal. Here, CTS signals may be returned for multiple resource units, and in that case, at least one resource unit of the multiple resource units can be used for communication. In this way, the access point aims to improve the data transmission speed of the communication system.

[0016] For example, in the third method, the source MAC (Medium Access Control) address of the third RTS signal transmitted in the first band and the second band may be the same.

[0017] According to the above aspect, the access point transmits RTS signals including a common source MAC address in the third method to multiple terminals in multiple bands, thereby enabling the access point to more easily improve the data transmission speed of the communication system based on a more specific configuration.

[0018] A communication method according to one embodiment of the present invention is a communication method executed by an access point having a first interface that performs wireless communication in a first band and a second interface that performs wireless communication in a second band different from the first band, and includes a selection step of selecting one RTS (Request to Send) / CTS (Clear to Send) control method from three mutually different methods using at least one of the first interface and the second interface, and a control step of performing RTS / CTS control of the selected one method with a terminal, wherein the first of the three methods is a method of transmitting a first RTS signal addressed to one terminal in the first band or the second band and receiving a first CTS signal transmitted in response to the first RTS signal, the second of the three methods is a method of transmitting second RTS signals addressed to multiple terminals in the first band or the second band and receiving a second CTS signal transmitted in response to the second RTS signal, and the third of the three methods is a method of transmitting a third RTS signal addressed to multiple terminals in each of the first band and the second band and receiving a third CTS signal transmitted in response to the third RTS signal.

[0019] According to the above aspect, the same effects as those of the above access point are achieved.

[0020] These comprehensive or specific aspects may be realized as a system, a method, an integrated circuit, a computer program, or a recording medium such as a computer-readable CD-ROM, or as any combination of a system, a method, an integrated circuit, a computer program, or a recording medium.

[0021] Hereinafter, the embodiments will be specifically described with reference to the drawings.

[0022] The embodiments described below are all comprehensive or specific examples. The numerical values, shapes, materials, components, component placement and connection configurations, steps, and step order shown in the following embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to limit the present invention. Furthermore, among the components in the following embodiments, components that are not described in the independent claims that represent the highest concepts are described as optional components.

[0023] (Embodiment 1) The communication device in Figure 1 is, for example, a communication device for transmitting and receiving modulated signals in a first frequency band 201, for example, the 2.4 GHz band, a second frequency band 202, for example, the 5 GHz band, and a third frequency band 203, for example, the 6 (or 7) GHz band, as shown in Figure 2.

[0024] In FIG. 2, the horizontal axis represents frequency, and the vertical axis represents power of the modulated signal.

[0025] In FIG. 1, antennas 104_1, 105_1 and transceiver 102_1 are for transmitting and receiving modulated signals in a first frequency band 201, antennas 104_2, 105_2 and transceiver 102_2 are for transmitting and receiving modulated signals in a second frequency band 202, and antennas 104_3, 105_3 and transceiver 102_3 are for transmitting and receiving modulated signals in a third frequency band 203.

[0026] For example, the communication device in Figure 1 is assumed to be configured as an access point (AP) device, and the AP is assumed to be a communication device that can communicate with one or more terminals, and is assumed to be capable of transmitting and receiving modulated signals using the IEEE 802.11 communication method as a communication standard.

[0027] The communication method related to IEEE 802.11 is described in, for example, Non-Patent Document 1.

[0028] Non-Patent Document 1 discloses a description of transmission and reception in the CSMA / CA (Carrier Sense Multiple Access with Collision Avoidance) method in IEEE 802.11. In CSMA / CA, a communication device transmits and receives a request to send (RTS) signal and a clear to send (CTS) signal. For example, assume that an AP transmits an RTS signal. A terminal then receives the RTS signal and, if necessary, transmits a CTS signal. This addresses the hidden terminal problem.

[0029] In the following, for example, a case where an AP transmits an RTS signal will be described. Note that the AP is assumed to be capable of transmitting the following modulated signals.

[0030] First transmission method: OFDM (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing) At this time, it is assumed that a modulated signal addressed to one terminal is transmitted using the first frequency band or the second frequency band.

[0031] Second transmission method: OFDMA (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing Access) At this time, it is assumed that modulated signals addressed to one or more terminals are transmitted using the first frequency band or the second frequency band.

[0032] Third sending method: One or more of the first frequency band, the second frequency band, and the third frequency band are used, and in each frequency band, modulated signals addressed to one or more terminals are transmitted using OFDM or OFDMA.

[0033] 3A shows the configuration of an RTS (Request to Send) signal for the first transmission method, with the horizontal axis representing time. Note that here, it is assumed that an AP having the configuration shown in FIG. 1 transmits the RTS shown in FIG. 3A.

[0034] 3A includes, for example, the address information of the receiving station (communication partner) and the address information of the transmitting station (here, AP). Note that the "receiving station address" is the address information of one receiving station (communication partner).

[0035] Figure 3B shows the configuration of a multi-user request to send (MU-RTS) signal for the second transmission method, with the horizontal axis representing time. Note that here, it is assumed that an AP with the configuration shown in Figure 1 transmits the MU-RTS shown in Figure 3B.

[0036] 3B includes, for example, the address information of the receiving station (communication partner) and the address information of the transmitting station (here, AP). Note that the "receiving station address" can be the address information of one or more receiving stations (communication partners), or the address information of two or more receiving stations (communication partners).

[0037] Figure 3C shows the configuration of a multi-channel multi-user request to send (MC-MU-RTS) signal for the third transmission method, with the horizontal axis representing time. Note that here, it is assumed that an AP with the configuration shown in Figure 1 transmits the MC-MU-RTS signal shown in Figure 3C.

[0038] 3C includes, for example, the address information of the receiving station (communication partner) and the address information of the transmitting station (here, AP). Note that the "receiving station address" can be the address information of one or more receiving stations (communication partners), or the address information of two or more receiving stations (communication partners).

[0039] The transceiver 102_1 of the AP having the configuration of Fig. 1 transmits and receives modulated signals in the first frequency band. Therefore, when transmitting an RTS signal, the transceiver 102_1 transmits either the RTS of Fig. 3A, the MU-RTS of Fig. 3B, or the MC-MU-RTS of Fig. 3C.

[0040] The transceiver 102_2 of the AP having the configuration of Fig. 1 transmits and receives modulated signals in the second frequency band. Therefore, when transmitting an RTS signal, the transceiver 102_2 transmits either the RTS of Fig. 3A, the MU-RTS of Fig. 3B, or the MC-MU-RTS of Fig. 3C.

[0041] 1 transmits and receives a modulated signal in the third frequency band. Therefore, when transmitting an RTS signal, the transceiver 102_3 transmits the MC-MU-RTS signal shown in FIG. 3C.

[0042] When the AP transmits the MC-MU-RTS shown in Figure 3C, it will transmit using one or more of the first, second, and third frequency bands. Therefore, the following cases are possible:

[0043] First case: The AP transmits the first MC-MU-RTS only in the first frequency band.

[0044] Second case: The AP transmits a second MC-MU-RTS only in the second frequency band.

[0045] Third case: The AP transmits the third MC-MU-RTS only in the third frequency band.

[0046] Fourth case: The AP transmits a first MC-MU-RTS in a first frequency band and transmits a second MC-MU-RTS in a second frequency band.

[0047] Fifth case: The AP transmits a first MC-MU-RTS in a first frequency band and transmits a third MC-MU-RTS in a third frequency band.

[0048] Case 6: The AP transmits a second MC-MU-RTS in the second frequency band and transmits a third MC-MU-RTS in the third frequency band.

[0049] Seventh case: The AP transmits a first MC-MU-RTS in a first frequency band, transmits a second MC-MU-RTS in a second frequency band, and transmits a third MC-MU-RTS in a third frequency band.

[0050] As described above, by transmitting the MC-MU-RTS in FIG. 3C, the AP can obtain the effect of being able to perform the following communications. - Communication with one terminal can be carried out only in the third frequency band. - Communication with more than two terminals is possible only in the third frequency band. ·It is possible to communicate with one or more terminals in the third frequency band and to communicate with one or more terminals in another frequency band.

[0051] It can also be said that the AP is characterized in that it does not transmit the RTS signal in FIG. 3A or the MU-RTS signal in FIG. 3B in the third frequency band.

[0052] Second example: The AP shall be capable of transmitting the following modulated signals:

[0053] The fourth transmission method: OFDM At this time, it is assumed that a modulated signal addressed to one terminal is transmitted using the first frequency band or the second frequency band.

[0054] Fifth Transmission Method: OFDMA At this time, it is assumed that modulated signals addressed to one or more terminals are transmitted using the first frequency band, the second frequency band, or the third frequency band.

[0055] 6th sending method: One or more of the first frequency band, the second frequency band, and the third frequency band are used, and in each frequency band, modulated signals for one or more terminals are transmitted using OFDM or OFDMA.

[0056] In the second and fifth transmission methods, the modulated signal at a certain time or in a certain time period includes symbols addressed to one or more terminals (one or more resource units (RUs)). For example, the frame structure is as shown in Figures 4A and 4B.

[0057] In Fig. 4A, the vertical axis represents frequency (carrier) and the horizontal axis represents time. As shown in Fig. 4A, a symbol (RU#A) 401_1 addressed to terminal #A exists at the first time.

[0058] In Fig. 4B, the vertical axis represents frequency (carrier) and the horizontal axis represents time. As shown in Fig. 4B, at the first time point, there are a symbol (RU#A) 401_1 addressed to terminal #A, a symbol (RU#B) 401_2 addressed to terminal #B, and a symbol (RU#C) 401_3 addressed to terminal #C.

[0059] However, although frequency division into three RUs is performed in FIG. 4B, the number of frequency divisions is not limited to three. Furthermore, the frame configuration is not limited to the examples in FIGS. 4A and 4B. The number of frequency divisions, i.e., the number of destination terminals, may be two, or may be four or more. Furthermore, the number of carriers assigned to each terminal may be different.

[0060] Although frequency division is performed in Fig. 4B, time division into three RUs may be performed by considering the vertical axis as time and the horizontal axis as frequency. Note that the number of time divisions, i.e., the number of destination terminals, may be two or more, and the number of time slots assigned to each terminal may be different.

[0061] In the third and sixth transmission methods, one or more of the first, second, and third frequency bands are used in a certain time period, and symbols addressed to one or more terminals (one or more RUs) are included. For example, the frame configurations shown in Figures 5A, 5B, 5C, 5D, 5E, 5F, 5G, 5H, 5I, 5J, and 5K are used.

[0062] 5A, the vertical axis represents time and the horizontal axis represents frequency (carrier). 500_1 represents a frame configuration in a first frequency band, 500_2 represents a frame configuration in a second frequency band, and 500_3 represents a frame configuration in a third frequency band.

[0063] As shown in Figure 5A, at the first time, in the first frequency band, there is a symbol (RU#A) 501_1 addressed to terminal #A, at the first time, there is a symbol (RU#A) 501_2 addressed to terminal #A in the second frequency band, and at the first time, there is a symbol (RU#A) 501_3 addressed to terminal #A in the third frequency band.

[0064] In Fig. 5B, the vertical axis represents time and the horizontal axis represents frequency (carrier). Note that the same numbers are used for components that operate in the same way as in Fig. 5A, and their explanation will be omitted.

[0065] As shown in FIG. 5B, at the first time, a symbol (RU#A) 501_1 addressed to terminal #A exists in the first frequency band, and at the first time, a symbol (RU#A) 501_2 addressed to terminal #A exists in the second frequency band.

[0066] In Fig. 5C, the vertical axis represents time and the horizontal axis represents frequency (carrier). Note that the same numbers are used for components that operate in the same way as in Fig. 5A, and their explanation will be omitted.

[0067] As shown in FIG. 5C, at the first time, a symbol (RU#A) 501_1 addressed to terminal #A exists in the first frequency band, and at the first time, a symbol (RU#A) 501_3 addressed to terminal #A exists in the third frequency band.

[0068] In Fig. 5D, the vertical axis represents time and the horizontal axis represents frequency (carrier). Note that the same numbers are used for components that operate in the same way as in Fig. 5A, and their explanation will be omitted.

[0069] As shown in FIG. 5D, at the first time, a symbol (RU#A) 501_2 addressed to terminal #A exists in the second frequency band, and at the first time, a symbol (RU#A) 501_3 addressed to terminal #A exists in the third frequency band.

[0070] In Fig. 5E, the vertical axis represents time and the horizontal axis represents frequency (carrier). Note that the same numbers are used for components that operate in the same way as in Fig. 5A, and their explanation will be omitted.

[0071] As shown in Fig. 5E, at the first time, a data symbol 502_1 exists in the first frequency band, at the first time, a data symbol 502_2 exists in the second frequency band, and at the first time, a data symbol 502_3 exists in the third frequency band. Note that the data symbols 502_1, 502_2, and 502_3 are symbols for transmitting data, and the configurations of the data symbols 502_1, 502_2, and 502_3 will be described later with reference to Figs. 6A and 6B.

[0072] In Fig. 5F, the vertical axis represents time and the horizontal axis represents frequency (carrier). Note that components that operate in the same manner as in Fig. 5A and Fig. 5E are given the same numbers and their explanations will be omitted.

[0073] As shown in Fig. 5F, at the first time, a data symbol 502_1 exists in the first frequency band, and at the first time, a data symbol 502_2 exists in the second frequency band. Note that the data symbols 502_1, 502_2, and 502_3 are symbols for transmitting data, and the configurations of the data symbols 502_1, 502_2, and 502_3 will be described later with reference to Figs. 6A and 6B.

[0074] In Fig. 5G, the vertical axis represents time and the horizontal axis represents frequency (carrier). Note that components that operate in the same manner as in Fig. 5A and Fig. 5E are given the same numbers and their explanations will be omitted.

[0075] As shown in Fig. 5G, at the first time, a data symbol 502_1 exists in the first frequency band, and at the first time, a data symbol 502_3 exists in the third frequency band. Note that the data symbols 502_1, 502_2, and 502_3 are symbols for transmitting data, and the configurations of the data symbols 502_1, 502_2, and 502_3 will be described later with reference to Figs. 6A and 6B.

[0076] In Fig. 5H, the vertical axis represents time and the horizontal axis represents frequency (carrier). Note that components that operate in the same manner as in Fig. 5A and Fig. 5E are given the same numbers and their explanations will be omitted.

[0077] As shown in Fig. 5H, at the first time, a data symbol 502_2 exists in the second frequency band, and at the first time, a data symbol 502_3 exists in the third frequency band. Note that the data symbols 502_1, 502_2, and 502_3 are symbols for transmitting data, and the configurations of the data symbols 502_1, 502_2, and 502_3 will be described later with reference to Figs. 6A and 6B.

[0078] In Fig. 5I, the vertical axis represents time and the horizontal axis represents frequency (carrier). Note that components that operate in the same manner as in Fig. 5A and Fig. 5E are given the same numbers and their explanations will be omitted.

[0079] As shown in Fig. 5I, at the first time, a data symbol 502_1 exists in the first frequency band. Note that data symbols 502_1, 502_2, and 502_3 are symbols for transmitting data, and the configurations of the data symbols 502_1, 502_2, and 502_3 will be described later with reference to Figs. 6A and 6B.

[0080] In Fig. 5J, the vertical axis represents time and the horizontal axis represents frequency (carrier). Note that components that operate in the same manner as in Fig. 5A and Fig. 5E are given the same numbers and their explanations will be omitted.

[0081] As shown in Fig. 5J, at the first time, a data symbol 502_2 exists in the second frequency band. Note that data symbols 502_1, 502_2, and 502_3 are symbols for transmitting data, and the configurations of the data symbols 502_1, 502_2, and 502_3 will be described later with reference to Figs. 6A and 6B.

[0082] In Fig. 5K, the vertical axis represents time and the horizontal axis represents frequency (carrier). Note that components that operate in the same manner as in Fig. 5A and Fig. 5E are given the same numbers and their explanations will be omitted.

[0083] As shown in Fig. 5K, at the first time, a data symbol 502_3 exists in the third frequency band. Note that the data symbols 502_1, 502_2, and 502_3 are symbols for transmitting data, and the configurations of the data symbols 502_1, 502_2, and 502_3 will be described later with reference to Figs. 6A and 6B.

[0084] FIG. 6A shows an example of the configuration of data symbol 502_X in the Xth frequency band in FIGS. 5E, 5F, 5G, 5H, 5I, 5J, and 5K. X is 1, 2, or 3. In FIG. 6A, the vertical axis represents time and the horizontal axis represents frequency (carrier). As shown in FIG. 6A, data symbol 502_X is assumed to be configured with symbol (RU#X1) 601_1 addressed to terminal #X1.

[0085] FIG. 6B shows an example of the configuration of data symbol 502_X in the Xth frequency band in FIGS. 5E, 5F, 5G, 5H, 5I, 5J, and 5K. X is 1, 2, or 3. In FIG. 6B, the vertical axis represents time, and the horizontal axis represents frequency (carrier). As shown in FIG. 6B, data symbol 502_X is assumed to be configured with symbol (RU#X1) 601_1 addressed to terminal #X1, symbol (RU#X2) 601_2 addressed to terminal #X2, symbol (RU#X3) 601_3 addressed to terminal #X3, and symbol (RU#X4) 601_4 addressed to terminal #X4.

[0086] FIG. 6A shows an example of the configuration of data symbol 502_X in the Xth frequency band in FIGS. 5E, 5F, 5G, 5H, 5I, 5J, and 5K. X is 1, 2, or 3. In FIG. 6A, the vertical axis represents time and the horizontal axis represents frequency (carrier). As shown in FIG. 6A, data symbol 502_X is assumed to be configured with symbol (RU#X1) 601_1 addressed to terminal #X1.

[0087] FIG. 6B shows an example of the configuration of data symbol 502_X in the Xth frequency band in FIGS. 5E, 5F, 5G, 5H, 5I, 5J, and 5K. X is 1, 2, or 3. In FIG. 6B, the vertical axis represents time, and the horizontal axis represents frequency (carrier). As shown in FIG. 6B, data symbol 502_X is assumed to be configured with symbol (RU#X1) 601_1 addressed to terminal #X1, symbol (RU#X2) 601_2 addressed to terminal #X2, symbol (RU#X3) 601_3 addressed to terminal #X3, and symbol (RU#X4) 601_4 addressed to terminal #X4.

[0088] However, although frequency division into four RUs is performed in Fig. 6B, the number of frequency divisions is not limited to 4. Furthermore, the configurations of data symbols 502_1, 502_2, and 502_3 are not limited to the configurations in Figs. 6A and 6B.

[0089] For example, data symbol 502_1 is assumed to have the frame structure shown in either Fig. 6A or 6B, data symbol 502_2 is assumed to have the frame structure shown in either Fig. 6A or 6B, and data symbol 502_3 is assumed to have the frame structure shown in either Fig. 6A or 6B.

[0090] Note that data symbols 502_1, 502_2, and 502_3 may include symbols addressed to the same terminal (for example, data symbols 502_1, 502_2, and 502_3 may include symbols addressed to terminal #A).

[0091] Similarly, data symbols 502_1 and 502_2 may contain symbols addressed to the same terminal (for example, data symbols 502_1 and 502_2 may contain symbols addressed to terminal #A).

[0092] Data symbols 502_1 and 502_3 may contain symbols addressed to the same terminal (for example, data symbols 502_1 and 502_3 may contain symbols addressed to terminal #A).

[0093] Data symbols 502_2 and 502_3 may contain symbols addressed to the same terminal (for example, data symbols 502_2 and 502_3 may contain symbols addressed to terminal #A).

[0094] An AP that transmits modulated signals using the third transmission method or the sixth transmission method selects, for example, one of the frame configurations shown in Figures 5A, 5B, 5C, 5D, 5E, 5F, 5G, 5H, 5I, 5J, and 5K and transmits the modulated signal.

[0095] As another example, an AP that transmits modulated signals using the third transmission method or the sixth transmission method may select two or more frame configurations from among those shown in Figures 5A, 5B, 5C, 5D, 5E, 5F, 5G, 5H, 5I, 5J, and 5K, and transmit the selected frame configuration.

[0096] 5A, 5B, 5C, 5D, 5E, 5F, 5G, 5H, 5I, 5J, and 5K, symbols other than those shown in the figures may be present, such as preambles, reference symbols, control information symbols, pilot symbols, midambles, null symbols (no symbols), and null carriers (no symbols).

[0097] 6A and 6B, symbols other than those shown in the figures may also be present, such as a preamble, reference symbol, control information symbol, pilot symbol, midamble, null symbol (no symbol), null carrier (no symbol), etc.

[0098] 3A shows the configuration of a Request to Send (RTS) signal for the fourth transmission method, with the horizontal axis representing time. Note that here, it is assumed that an AP having the configuration shown in FIG. 1 transmits the RTS shown in FIG. 3A.

[0099] 3A includes, for example, the address information of the receiving station (communication partner) and the address information of the transmitting station (here, AP). Note that the "receiving station address" is the address information of one receiving station (communication partner).

[0100] Figure 3B shows the configuration of a multi-user request to send (MU-RTS) signal for the fifth transmission method, with the horizontal axis representing time. Note that here, it is assumed that an AP with the configuration shown in Figure 1 transmits the MU-RTS signal shown in Figure 3B.

[0101] 3B includes, for example, the address information of the receiving station (communication partner) and the address information of the transmitting station (here, AP). Note that the "receiving station address" can be the address information of one or more receiving stations (communication partners), or the address information of two or more receiving stations (communication partners).

[0102] Figure 3C shows the configuration of a MC-MU-RTS (Multi-channel multi-user request to send) signal for the sixth transmission method, with the horizontal axis representing time. Note that here, it is assumed that an AP with the configuration shown in Figure 1 transmits the MC-MU-RTS shown in Figure 3C.

[0103] 3C includes, for example, the address information of the receiving station (communication partner) and the address information of the transmitting station (here, AP). Note that the "receiving station address" can be the address information of one or more receiving stations (communication partners), or the address information of two or more receiving stations (communication partners).

[0104] The transceiver 102_1 of the AP having the configuration of Fig. 1 transmits and receives modulated signals in the first frequency band. Therefore, when transmitting an RTS signal, the transceiver 102_1 transmits either the RTS of Fig. 3A, the MU-RTS of Fig. 3B, or the MC-MU-RTS of Fig. 3C.

[0105] The transceiver 102_2 of the AP having the configuration of Fig. 1 transmits and receives modulated signals in the second frequency band. Therefore, when transmitting an RTS signal, the transceiver 102_2 transmits either the RTS of Fig. 3A, the MU-RTS of Fig. 3B, or the MC-MU-RTS of Fig. 3C.

[0106] Also, the transceiver 102_3 of the AP having the configuration of Fig. 1 transmits and receives modulated signals in the third frequency band. Therefore, when transmitting an RTS signal, the transceiver 102_3 transmits either the MU-RTS in Fig. 3B or the MC-MU-RTS in Fig. 3C.

[0107] When the AP transmits the MC-MU-RTS shown in Figure 3C, it will transmit using one or more of the first, second, and third frequency bands. Therefore, the following cases are possible:

[0108] First case: The AP transmits the first MC-MU-RTS only in the first frequency band.

[0109] Second case: The AP transmits a second MC-MU-RTS only in the second frequency band.

[0110] Third case: The AP transmits the third MC-MU-RTS only in the third frequency band.

[0111] Fourth case: The AP transmits a first MC-MU-RTS in a first frequency band and transmits a second MC-MU-RTS in a second frequency band.

[0112] Fifth case: The AP transmits a first MC-MU-RTS in a first frequency band and transmits a third MC-MU-RTS in a third frequency band.

[0113] Case 6: The AP transmits a second MC-MU-RTS in the second frequency band and transmits a third MC-MU-RTS in the third frequency band.

[0114] Seventh case: The AP transmits a first MC-MU-RTS in a first frequency band, transmits a second MC-MU-RTS in a second frequency band, and transmits a third MC-MU-RTS in a third frequency band.

[0115] As described above, by transmitting the MC-MU-RTS in FIG. 3C, the AP can obtain the effect of being able to perform the following communications. - Communication with one terminal can be carried out only in the third frequency band. - Communication with more than two terminals is possible only in the third frequency band. ·It is possible to communicate with one or more terminals in the third frequency band and to communicate with one or more terminals in another frequency band.

[0116] It can also be said that the AP is characterized in that it does not transmit the RTS signal of FIG. 3A in the third frequency band.

[0117] In the explanation so far, an example of operation when three frequency bands exist, i.e., a first frequency band, a second frequency band, and a third frequency band, has been explained, but this is not limited to this, and as long as there are two or more frequency bands, the explanation so far can be implemented in the same way.

[0118] For example, when there are two types of frequency bands, such as frequency band A and frequency band B, consider the following.

[0119] Case X: If frequency band A is 2.4 GHz and frequency band B is 5 GHz, frequency band A will be considered as the first frequency band in the above explanation, and frequency band B will be considered as the second frequency band in the above explanation, and the above explanation will be applied.

[0120] Case Y: If frequency band A is 2.4 GHz and frequency band B is 6 GHz, frequency band A will be considered as the first frequency band in the above explanation, and frequency band B will be considered as the third frequency band in the above explanation, and the above explanation will be applied.

[0121] Case Z: If frequency band A is the 5 GHz band and frequency band B is 6 GHz, frequency band A will be considered as the second frequency band in the above explanation, and frequency band B will be considered as the third frequency band in the above explanation, and the above explanation will be applied.

[0122] Furthermore, if there are four or more frequency bands and the first, second, or third frequency band described above is included in these four or more frequency bands, the same implementation is possible by implementing the above description.

[0123] Then, when a terminal receives each RTS transmitted by the AP, if the RTS contains the terminal's own address, it will transmit a CTS signal to the AP.

[0124] (Embodiment 2) In this embodiment, examples of frame configurations suitable for the third and sixth transmission methods described above will be described. For example, an AP having the configuration shown in Fig. 1 will transmit a modulated signal having one of the frame configurations shown in Fig. 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, and 14.

[0125] The frame configurations of FIGS. 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, and 14 will be described below.

[0126] Fig. 7 shows an example of the frame structure of a modulated signal transmitted by an AP. In Fig. 7, components that operate in the same manner as in Fig. 5 are given the same numbers, and their explanation will be omitted.

[0127] 7, the vertical axis represents time and the horizontal axis represents frequency (carrier). 500_1 represents a frame configuration in the first frequency band, 500_2 represents a frame configuration in the second frequency band, and 500_3 represents a frame configuration in the third frequency band.

[0128] 7, at the first time, a first field 701_1 exists in the first frequency band. At the first time, a first field 701_2 exists in the second frequency band. At the first time, a first field 701_3 exists in the third frequency band.

[0129] It is assumed that the first fields 701_1, 701_2, and 701_3 include symbols for the AP's communication counterpart to perform signal detection, time synchronization, frequency synchronization, channel estimation, and the like.

[0130] At the second time, a second field 702_1 exists in the first frequency band. At the second time, a second field 702_2 exists in the second frequency band. At the second time, a second field 702_3 exists in the third frequency band.

[0131] The second field 701_1 is a field for transmitting control information to a communication partner of the AP, and includes, for example, information on an error correction coding method, modulation method, and transmission method for generating a symbol (RU#A) 501_1 addressed to terminal #A. The second field 701_2 is a field for transmitting control information to a communication partner of the AP, and includes, for example, information on an error correction coding method, modulation method, and transmission method for generating a symbol (RU#A) 501_2 addressed to terminal #A. The second field 701_3 is a field for transmitting control information to a communication partner of the AP, and includes, for example, information on an error correction coding method, modulation method, and transmission method for generating a symbol (RU#A) 501_3 addressed to terminal #A.

[0132] At the third time, in the first frequency band, there is a symbol (RU#A) 501_1 addressed to terminal #A, at the third time, there is a symbol (RU#A) 501_2 addressed to terminal #A in the second frequency band, and at the third time, there is a symbol (RU#A) 501_3 addressed to terminal #A in the third frequency band.

[0133] As shown in the example of Fig. 7, a feature is that data symbols addressed to the same terminal exist in the first frequency band, the second frequency band, and the third frequency band at a certain time. Note that, at this time, it is assumed that data symbols addressed to other terminals do not exist. The temporal transmission timing of the first fields 701_1, 701_2, and 701_3 and the second fields 702_1, 702_2, and 702_3 is not limited to the example of Fig. 7.

[0134] Fig. 8 shows an example of the frame structure of a modulated signal transmitted by an AP. In Fig. 8, components that operate in the same manner as in Fig. 5 and Fig. 7 are given the same numbers, and their explanation will be omitted.

[0135] 8, the vertical axis represents time and the horizontal axis represents frequency (carrier). 500_1 represents a frame configuration in the first frequency band, 500_2 represents a frame configuration in the second frequency band, and 500_3 represents a frame configuration in the third frequency band.

[0136] 8, a first field 701_1 exists in a first frequency band at a first time, and a first field 701_2 exists in a second frequency band at a first time.

[0137] It is assumed that the first fields 701_1 and 701_2 include symbols for the AP's communication partner to perform signal detection, time synchronization, frequency synchronization, channel estimation, and the like.

[0138] At a second time, a second field 702_1 exists in the first frequency band, and at a second time, a second field 702_2 exists in the second frequency band.

[0139] The second field 701_1 is a field for transmitting control information to a communication partner of the AP, and includes, for example, information on an error correction coding method, modulation method, transmission method, etc. for generating a symbol (RU#A) 501_1 addressed to terminal #A. The second field 701_2 is a field for transmitting control information to a communication partner of the AP, and includes, for example, information on an error correction coding method, modulation method, transmission method, etc. for generating a symbol (RU#A) 501_2 addressed to terminal #A.

[0140] At the third time, in the first frequency band, there is a symbol (RU#A) 501_1 addressed to terminal #A, and at the third time, there is a symbol (RU#A) 501_2 addressed to terminal #A in the second frequency band.

[0141] As shown in the example of Fig. 8, a feature is that data symbols addressed to the same terminal exist in the first frequency band and the second frequency band at a certain time. At this time, it is assumed that data symbols addressed to other terminals do not exist. The temporal transmission timing of the first fields 701_1 and 701_2 and the second fields 702_1 and 702_2 is not limited to the example of Fig. 8.

[0142] 9, the vertical axis represents time and the horizontal axis represents frequency (carrier). 500_1 represents a frame configuration in the first frequency band, 500_2 represents a frame configuration in the second frequency band, and 500_3 represents a frame configuration in the third frequency band.

[0143] 9, a first field 701_1 exists in a first frequency band at a first time, and a first field 701_3 exists in a third frequency band at a first time.

[0144] It is assumed that the first fields 701_1 and 701_3 include symbols for the AP's communication partner to perform signal detection, time synchronization, frequency synchronization, channel estimation, and the like.

[0145] At the second time, a second field 702_1 exists in the first frequency band, and at the second time, a second field 702_3 exists in the third frequency band.

[0146] The second field 701_1 is a field for transmitting control information to a communication partner of the AP, and includes, for example, information on an error correction coding method, modulation method, transmission method, etc. for generating a symbol (RU#A) 501_1 addressed to terminal #A. The second field 701_3 is a field for transmitting control information to a communication partner of the AP, and includes, for example, information on an error correction coding method, modulation method, transmission method, etc. for generating a symbol (RU#A) 501_3 addressed to terminal #A.

[0147] At the third time, in the first frequency band, there is a symbol (RU#A) 501_1 addressed to terminal #A, and at the third time, there is a symbol (RU#A) 501_3 addressed to terminal #A in the third frequency band.

[0148] As shown in the example of Fig. 9, a feature is that data symbols addressed to the same terminal exist in the first frequency band and the third frequency band at a certain time. Note that, at this time, data symbols addressed to other terminals do not exist. The temporal transmission timing of the first fields 701_1 and 701_3 and the second fields 702_1 and 702_3 is not limited to the example of Fig. 9.

[0149] Fig. 10 shows an example of the frame structure of a modulated signal transmitted by an AP. In Fig. 10, components that operate in the same manner as in Fig. 5 and Fig. 7 are given the same numbers, and their explanation will be omitted.

[0150] 10, the vertical axis represents time and the horizontal axis represents frequency (carrier). 500_1 represents a frame configuration in the first frequency band, 500_2 represents a frame configuration in the second frequency band, and 500_3 represents a frame configuration in the third frequency band.

[0151] 10, a first field 701_2 exists in the second frequency band at the first time period, and a first field 701_3 exists in the third frequency band at the first time period.

[0152] It is assumed that the first fields 701_2 and 701_3 include symbols for the AP's communication partner to perform signal detection, time synchronization, frequency synchronization, channel estimation, etc., for example.

[0153] At the second time, a second field 702_2 exists in the second frequency band, and at the second time, a second field 702_3 exists in the third frequency band.

[0154] The second field 701_2 is a field for transmitting control information to a communication partner of the AP, and includes, for example, information on an error correction coding method, modulation method, transmission method, etc. for generating a symbol (RU#A) 501_2 addressed to terminal #A. The second field 701_3 is a field for transmitting control information to a communication partner of the AP, and includes, for example, information on an error correction coding method, modulation method, transmission method, etc. for generating a symbol (RU#A) 501_3 addressed to terminal #A.

[0155] At the third time, in the second frequency band, there is a symbol (RU#A) 501_2 addressed to terminal #A, and at the third time, there is a symbol (RU#A) 501_3 addressed to terminal #A in the third frequency band.

[0156] As shown in the example of Fig. 10, a feature is that data symbols addressed to the same terminal exist in the second frequency band and the third frequency band at a certain time. Note that, at this time, data symbols addressed to other terminals do not exist. The temporal transmission timing of the first fields 701_2 and 701_3 and the second fields 702_2 and 702_3 is not limited to the example of Fig. 10.

[0157] Fig. 11 shows an example of the frame structure of a modulated signal transmitted by an AP. In Fig. 11, components that operate in the same manner as in Fig. 5 and Fig. 7 are given the same numbers, and their explanation will be omitted.

[0158] 11, the vertical axis represents time and the horizontal axis represents frequency (carrier). 500_1 represents a frame configuration in the first frequency band, 500_2 represents a frame configuration in the second frequency band, and 500_3 represents a frame configuration in the third frequency band.

[0159] 11, a first field 701_1 exists in a first frequency band at a first time, and a first field 701_2 exists in a second frequency band at a first time.

[0160] It is assumed that the first fields 701_1 and 701_2 include symbols for the AP's communication partner to perform signal detection, time synchronization, frequency synchronization, channel estimation, and the like.

[0161] At a second time, a second field 702_1 exists in the first frequency band, and at a second time, a second field 702_2 exists in the second frequency band.

[0162] The second field 701_1 is a field for transmitting control information to a communication partner of the AP, and includes, for example, information on an error correction coding method, modulation method, transmission method, etc. for generating a symbol (RU#A) 501_1 addressed to terminal #A. The second field 701_2 is a field for transmitting control information to a communication partner of the AP, and includes, for example, information on an error correction coding method, modulation method, transmission method, etc. for generating a symbol (RU#A) 501_2 addressed to terminal #A.

[0163] At the third time, in the first frequency band, there is a symbol (RU#A) 501_1 addressed to terminal #A, and at the third time, there is a symbol (RU#A) 501_2 addressed to terminal #A in the second frequency band.

[0164] As shown in Fig. 11, in the third frequency band, a modulated signal exists at a timing unrelated to the modulated signal in the first frequency band and the modulated signal in the second frequency band. For example, as shown in Fig. 11, a first field 701_3, a second field 702_3, and a data symbol 502_3 exist.

[0165] The configuration of data symbol 502_3 at this time will be described below. Possible configurations of data symbol 502_3 are shown in Fig. 6A and Fig. 6B.

[0166] FIG. 6A shows an example of the configuration of data symbol 502_X in the Xth frequency band. In this case, X is 3. In FIG. 6A, the vertical axis represents time and the horizontal axis represents frequency (carrier). As shown in FIG. 6A, data symbol 502_X is assumed to be configured with symbol (RU#X1) 601_1 addressed to terminal #X1. Note that symbol (RU#X1) 601_1 addressed to terminal #X1 is not symbol (RU#A) addressed to terminal #A. (However, symbol (RU#X1) 601_1 addressed to terminal #X1 may also be symbol (RU#A) addressed to terminal #A.)

[0167] FIG. 6B shows an example of the configuration of data symbol 502_X in the Xth frequency band. In this case, X is 3. In FIG. 6B, the vertical axis represents time and the horizontal axis represents frequency (carrier). As shown in FIG. 6B, data symbol 502_X is assumed to be composed of symbol (RU#X1) 601_1 addressed to terminal #X1, symbol (RU#X2) 601_2 addressed to terminal #X2, symbol (RU#X3) 601_3 addressed to terminal #X3, and symbol (RU#X4) 601_4 addressed to terminal #X4. Note that data symbol 502_X does not include symbol (RU#A) addressed to terminal #A. (It is also conceivable that data symbol 502_X may include symbol (RU#A) addressed to terminal #A.)

[0168] However, although frequency division into four RUs is performed in FIG. 6B, the number of frequency divisions is not limited to four. The number of frequency divisions, i.e., the number of destination terminals, may be two or more. The number of carriers assigned to each terminal may be different. Furthermore, the configuration of data symbol 502_3 is not limited to the configurations in FIGS. 6A and 6B.

[0169] Although frequency division is performed in Fig. 6B, time division into four RUs may be performed by considering the vertical axis as time and the horizontal axis as frequency. Note that the number of time divisions, i.e., the number of destination terminals, may be two or more, and the number of time slots assigned to each terminal may be different.

[0170] As an example, the data symbol 502_3 has the frame structure shown in either FIG. 6A or FIG. 6B.

[0171] As shown in the example of Fig. 11, at a certain time, data symbols addressed to the same terminal exist in the first frequency band and the second frequency band, and only data symbols addressed to other terminals exist in the third frequency band. Note that the temporal transmission timing of the first fields 701_1, 701_2, and 701_3 and the second fields 702_1, 702_2, and 702_3 is not limited to the example of Fig. 11.

[0172] Another feature may be that data symbols addressed to the same terminal exist in the first frequency band and the second frequency band at a certain time.

[0173] Fig. 12 shows an example of the frame structure of a modulated signal transmitted by an AP. In Fig. 12, components that operate in the same manner as in Fig. 5 and Fig. 7 are given the same numbers, and their explanation will be omitted.

[0174] 12, the vertical axis represents time and the horizontal axis represents frequency (carrier). 500_1 represents a frame configuration in the first frequency band, 500_2 represents a frame configuration in the second frequency band, and 500_3 represents a frame configuration in the third frequency band.

[0175] 12, a first field 701_1 exists in a first frequency band at a first time, and a first field 701_3 exists in a third frequency band at a first time.

[0176] It is assumed that the first fields 701_1 and 701_3 include symbols for the AP's communication partner to perform signal detection, time synchronization, frequency synchronization, channel estimation, and the like.

[0177] At the second time, a second field 702_1 exists in the first frequency band, and at the second time, a second field 702_3 exists in the third frequency band.

[0178] The second field 701_1 is a field for transmitting control information to a communication partner of the AP, and includes, for example, information on an error correction coding method, modulation method, transmission method, etc. for generating a symbol (RU#A) 501_1 addressed to terminal #A. The second field 701_3 is a field for transmitting control information to a communication partner of the AP, and includes, for example, information on an error correction coding method, modulation method, transmission method, etc. for generating a symbol (RU#A) 501_3 addressed to terminal #A.

[0179] At the third time, in the first frequency band, there is a symbol (RU#A) 501_1 addressed to terminal #A, and at the third time, there is a symbol (RU#A) 501_3 addressed to terminal #A in the third frequency band.

[0180] As shown in Fig. 12, in the second frequency band, a modulated signal exists at a timing unrelated to the modulated signal in the first frequency band and the modulated signal in the third frequency band. For example, as shown in Fig. 12, a first field 701_2, a second field 702_2, and a data symbol 502_2 exist.

[0181] The configuration of data symbol 502_2 at this time will be described below. Possible configurations of data symbol 502_2 are shown in Fig. 6A and Fig. 6B.

[0182] FIG. 6A shows an example of the configuration of data symbol 502_X in the Xth frequency band. In this case, X is 2. In FIG. 6A, the vertical axis represents time and the horizontal axis represents frequency (carrier). As shown in FIG. 6A, data symbol 502_X is assumed to be configured with symbol (RU#X1) 601_1 addressed to terminal #X1. Note that symbol (RU#X1) 601_1 addressed to terminal #X1 is not symbol (RU#A) addressed to terminal #A. (However, symbol (RU#X1) 601_1 addressed to terminal #X1 may also be symbol (RU#A) addressed to terminal #A.)

[0183] FIG. 6B shows an example of the configuration of data symbol 502_X in the Xth frequency band. In this case, X is 2. In FIG. 6B, the vertical axis represents time and the horizontal axis represents frequency (carrier). As shown in FIG. 6B, data symbol 502_X is assumed to be composed of symbol (RU#X1) 601_1 addressed to terminal #X1, symbol (RU#X2) 601_2 addressed to terminal #X2, symbol (RU#X3) 601_3 addressed to terminal #X3, and symbol (RU#X4) 601_4 addressed to terminal #X4. Note that data symbol 502_X does not include symbol (RU#A) addressed to terminal #A. (It is also conceivable that data symbol 502_X may include symbol (RU#A) addressed to terminal #A.)

[0184] However, although frequency division is performed into four RUs in FIG. 6B, the number of frequency divisions is not limited to four. The number of frequency divisions, i.e., the number of destination terminals, may be two or more. The number of carriers assigned to each terminal may be different. Furthermore, the configuration of data symbol 502_2 is not limited to the configurations in FIGS. 6A and 6B.

[0185] Although frequency division is performed in Fig. 6B, time division into four RUs may be performed by considering the vertical axis as time and the horizontal axis as frequency. Note that the number of time divisions, i.e., the number of destination terminals, may be two or more, and the number of time slots assigned to each terminal may be different.

[0186] As an example, the data symbol 502_3 has the frame structure shown in either FIG. 6A or FIG. 6B.

[0187] As shown in the example of Fig. 12, at a certain time, data symbols addressed to the same terminal exist in the first frequency band and the third frequency band, and only data symbols addressed to other terminals exist in the second frequency band. Note that the temporal transmission timing of the first fields 701_1, 701_2, and 701_3 and the second fields 702_1, 702_2, and 702_3 is not limited to the example of Fig. 12.

[0188] Another feature may be that data symbols addressed to the same terminal exist in the first frequency band and the second frequency band at a certain time.

[0189] Fig. 13 shows an example of the frame structure of a modulated signal transmitted by an AP. In Fig. 13, components that operate in the same manner as in Fig. 5 and Fig. 7 are given the same numbers, and their explanation will be omitted.

[0190] 13, the vertical axis represents time and the horizontal axis represents frequency (carrier). 500_1 represents a frame configuration in the first frequency band, 500_2 represents a frame configuration in the second frequency band, and 500_3 represents a frame configuration in the third frequency band.

[0191] As shown in Fig. 13, a first field 701_2 exists in the second frequency band at the first time, and a first field 701_3 exists in the third frequency band at the first time.

[0192] It is assumed that the first fields 701_2 and 701_3 include symbols for the AP's communication partner to perform signal detection, time synchronization, frequency synchronization, channel estimation, etc., for example.

[0193] At the second time, there is a second field 702_2 in the second frequency band, and at the second time, there is a second field 702_3 in the third frequency band.

[0194] The second field 701_2 is a field for transmitting control information to a communication partner of the AP, and includes, for example, information on an error correction coding method, modulation method, transmission method, etc. for generating a symbol (RU#A) 501_2 addressed to terminal #A. The second field 701_3 is a field for transmitting control information to a communication partner of the AP, and includes, for example, information on an error correction coding method, modulation method, transmission method, etc. for generating a symbol (RU#A) 501_3 addressed to terminal #A.

[0195] At the third time, in the second frequency band, there is a symbol (RU#A) 501_2 addressed to terminal #A, and at the third time, there is a symbol (RU#A) 501_3 addressed to terminal #A in the third frequency band.

[0196] As shown in Fig. 13, in the first frequency band, a modulated signal exists at a timing unrelated to the modulated signal in the second frequency band and the modulated signal in the third frequency band. For example, as shown in Fig. 13, there are a first field 701_1, a second field 702_1, and a data symbol 502_1.

[0197] The configuration of data symbol 502_1 at this time will be described below. Possible configurations of data symbol 502_1 are shown in Fig. 6A and Fig. 6B.

[0198] FIG. 6A shows an example of the configuration of data symbol 502_X in the Xth frequency band. In this case, X is 1. In FIG. 6A, the vertical axis represents time and the horizontal axis represents frequency (carrier). As shown in FIG. 6A, data symbol 502_X is assumed to be configured with symbol (RU#X1) 601_1 addressed to terminal #X1. Note that symbol (RU#X1) 601_1 addressed to terminal #X1 is not symbol (RU#A) addressed to terminal #A. (However, symbol (RU#X1) 601_1 addressed to terminal #X1 may also be symbol (RU#A) addressed to terminal #A.)

[0199] FIG. 6B shows an example of the configuration of data symbol 502_X in the Xth frequency band. In this case, X is 1. In FIG. 6B, the vertical axis represents time and the horizontal axis represents frequency (carrier). As shown in FIG. 6B, data symbol 502_X is assumed to be composed of symbol (RU#X1) 601_1 addressed to terminal #X1, symbol (RU#X2) 601_2 addressed to terminal #X2, symbol (RU#X3) 601_3 addressed to terminal #X3, and symbol (RU#X4) 601_4 addressed to terminal #X4. Note that data symbol 502_X does not include symbol (RU#A) addressed to terminal #A. (It is also conceivable that data symbol 502_X may include symbol (RU#A) addressed to terminal #A.)

[0200] However, although frequency division into four RUs is performed in FIG. 6B, the number of frequency divisions is not limited to four. The number of frequency divisions, i.e., the number of destination terminals, may be two or more. The number of carriers assigned to each terminal may be different. Furthermore, the configuration of data symbol 502_1 is not limited to the configurations in FIGS. 6A and 6B.

[0201] Although frequency division is performed in Fig. 6B, time division into four RUs may be performed by considering the vertical axis as time and the horizontal axis as frequency. Note that the number of time divisions, i.e., the number of destination terminals, may be two or more, and the number of time slots assigned to each terminal may be different.

[0202] As an example, the data symbol 502_3 has the frame structure shown in either FIG. 6A or FIG. 6B.

[0203] As shown in the example of Fig. 13, at a certain time, data symbols addressed to the same terminal exist in the second frequency band and the third frequency band, and only data symbols addressed to other terminals exist in the first frequency band. Note that the temporal transmission timing of the first fields 701_1, 701_2, and 701_3 and the second fields 702_1, 702_2, and 702_3 is not limited to the example of Fig. 13.

[0204] Another feature may be that data symbols addressed to the same terminal exist in the first frequency band and the second frequency band at a certain time.

[0205] Fig. 14 shows an example of the frame structure of a modulated signal transmitted by an AP. In Fig. 14, components that operate in the same manner as in Fig. 5 and Fig. 7 are given the same numbers, and descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0206] 14, the vertical axis represents time and the horizontal axis represents frequency (carrier). 500_1 represents a frame configuration in the first frequency band, 500_2 represents a frame configuration in the second frequency band, and 500_3 represents a frame configuration in the third frequency band.

[0207] As shown in FIG. 14, at a first time, a first field 701_1 exists in a first frequency band.

[0208] It is assumed that the first field 701_1 includes, for example, symbols for the AP's communication partner to perform signal detection, time synchronization, frequency synchronization, channel estimation, and the like.

[0209] At a second time, there is a second field 702_1 in the first frequency band.

[0210] The second field 701_1 is a field for transmitting control information to the AP's communication partner, and is assumed to include, for example, information on the error correction code method for generating the data symbol 502_1, information on the modulation method, information on the transmission method, etc.

[0211] At the third time, a data symbol 502_1 exists in the first frequency band.

[0212] As shown in Figure 14, in the second frequency band, a modulated signal exists at a timing that is unrelated to the modulated signal in the first frequency band. Also, in the third frequency band, a modulated signal exists at a timing that is unrelated to the modulated signal in the first frequency band. Also, in the third frequency band, a modulated signal exists at a timing that is unrelated to the modulated signal in the second frequency band.

[0213] 14, for example, a first field 701_2, a second field 702_2, and a data symbol 502_2 exist in the second frequency band, and a first field 701_3, a second field 702_3, and a data symbol 502_3 exist in the third frequency band.

[0214] The configurations of data symbols 502_1, 502_2, and 502_3 at this time will be described. Possible configurations of data symbols 502_1, 502_2, and 502_3 are shown in Figs. 6A and 6B. Data symbol 502_1 may have the configuration shown in Fig. 6A or 6B. Data symbol 502_2 may have the configuration shown in Fig. 6A or 6B. Data symbol 502_3 may have the configuration shown in Fig. 6A or 6B.

[0215] 6A shows an example of the configuration of data symbol 502_X in the Xth frequency band. In this case, X is 1, 2, or 3. In FIG. 6A, the vertical axis represents time and the horizontal axis represents frequency (carrier). As shown in FIG. 6A, data symbol 502_X is assumed to be configured with symbol (RU#X1) 601_1 addressed to terminal #X1.

[0216] 6B shows an example of the configuration of data symbol 502_X in the Xth frequency band. In this case, X is 1, 2, or 3. In FIG. 6B, the vertical axis represents time, and the horizontal axis represents frequency (carrier). As shown in FIG. 6B, data symbol 502_X is assumed to be configured with symbol (RU#X1) 601_1 addressed to terminal #X1, symbol (RU#X2) 601_2 addressed to terminal #X2, symbol (RU#X3) 601_3 addressed to terminal #X3, and symbol (RU#X4) 601_4 addressed to terminal #X4.

[0217] However, although frequency division into four RUs is performed in FIG. 6B, the number of frequency divisions is not limited to four. The number of frequency divisions, i.e., the number of destination terminals, may be two or more. Furthermore, the number of carriers assigned to each terminal may be different.

[0218] Although frequency division is performed in Fig. 6B, time division into four RUs may be performed by considering the vertical axis as time and the horizontal axis as frequency. Note that the number of time divisions, i.e., the number of destination terminals, may be two or more, and the number of time slots assigned to each terminal may be different.

[0219] At this time, the following features may be present: · There are no symbols (RU) addressed to the same terminal in both data symbol 502_1 and data symbol 502_2, and there are no symbols (RU) addressed to the same terminal in both data symbol 502_1 and data symbol 502_3, and there are no symbols (RU) addressed to the same terminal in both data symbol 502_2 and data symbol 502_3.

[0220] However, this feature does not have to be present.

[0221] 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, and 14, symbols other than those shown in the figures may be present. For example, preambles, reference symbols, control information symbols, pilot symbols, midambles, null symbols (no symbols exist), null carriers (no symbols exist), etc. may be present. Furthermore, in FIGS. 6A and 6B, symbols other than those shown in the figures may be present. For example, preambles, reference symbols, control information symbols, pilot symbols, midambles, null symbols (no symbols exist), null carriers (no symbols exist), etc. may be present.

[0222] An AP that transmits modulated signals using the third transmission method or the sixth transmission method selects, for example, one of the frame configurations shown in Figures 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, and 14 and transmits the modulated signal.

[0223] As another example, an AP that transmits modulated signals using the third transmission method or the sixth transmission method may select two or more frame configurations from among those shown in Figures 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, and 14, and transmit the selected frame configuration.

[0224] It can be said that an AP that transmits modulated signals using the third transmission method and the sixth transmission method has the following features. As shown in FIG. 15, if, at the third time, data symbol 502_1 exists in the first frequency band, data symbol 502_2 exists in the second frequency band, and data symbol 502_3 exists in the third frequency band, none of data symbol 502_1, data symbol 502_2, and data symbol 502_3 will have the configuration shown in FIG. 6B. As shown in FIG. 16, if a data symbol 502_1 exists in the first frequency band and a data symbol 502_2 exists in the second frequency band at the third time, neither the data symbol 502_1 nor the data symbol 502_2 will have the configuration shown in FIG. 6B. As shown in FIG. 17, if a data symbol 502_1 exists in the first frequency band and a data symbol 502_3 exists in the third frequency band at the third time, neither the data symbol 502_1 nor the data symbol 502_3 will have the configuration shown in FIG. 6B. As shown in FIG. 18, if a data symbol 502_2 exists in the second frequency band and a data symbol 502_3 exists in the third frequency band at the third time, neither the data symbol 502_2 nor the data symbol 502_3 will have the configuration shown in FIG. 6B.

[0225] By using a frame configuration with these characteristics, it is possible to obtain the effect of improving the data transmission speed in the modulated signal transmitted by the AP. This point will be explained using the frame configuration in Fig. 15 as an example.

[0226] For example, in FIG. 15, it is assumed that data symbol 502_1 has the configuration shown in FIG. 6B. Consider a case where the number of symbols of symbol (RU #X1) 601_1 addressed to terminal #X1 is the largest over time. In this case, in other RUs, a time interval where no symbol is present exists while symbol (RU #X1) 601_1 addressed to terminal #X1 is present. Furthermore, data symbol 502_2 of the second frequency band and data symbol 502_3 of the third frequency band also have a time interval where no symbol is present while symbol (RU #X1) 601_1 addressed to terminal #X1 is present. In other words, the adverse effect of a time interval where no symbol is present while symbol (RU #X1) 601_1 addressed to terminal #X1 is present extends to the second frequency band and the third frequency band, resulting in an adverse effect of a decrease in data transmission speed.

[0227] However, when the AP transmits modulated signals using the third and sixth transmission methods, which have the above-mentioned features, the above-mentioned adverse effects can be reduced, thereby improving the data transmission speed.

[0228] Furthermore, when the AP transmits modulated signals using the third transmission method and the sixth transmission method as shown in Figures 7, 8, 9, and 10, it is possible to achieve the effect of realizing high-speed data transmission to specific terminals.

[0229] Furthermore, when an AP transmits modulated signals using the third transmission method and the sixth transmission method as shown in Figures 11, 12, and 13, it is possible to achieve high-speed data transmission to a specific terminal, as well as to achieve the effect of enabling multi-access, which allows data to be transmitted to multiple terminals.

[0230] In the explanation so far, an example of operation when three frequency bands exist, i.e., a first frequency band, a second frequency band, and a third frequency band, has been explained, but this is not limited to this, and as long as there are two or more frequency bands, the explanation so far can be implemented in the same way.

[0231] For example, when there are two types of frequency bands, such as frequency band A and frequency band B, consider the following.

[0232] Case X: If frequency band A is 2.4 GHz and frequency band B is 5 GHz, frequency band A will be considered as the first frequency band in the above explanation, and frequency band B will be considered as the second frequency band in the above explanation, and the above explanation will be applied.

[0233] Case Y: If frequency band A is 2.4 GHz and frequency band B is 6 GHz, frequency band A will be considered as the first frequency band in the above explanation, and frequency band B will be considered as the third frequency band in the above explanation, and the above explanation will be applied.

[0234] Case Z: If frequency band A is the 5 GHz band and frequency band B is 6 GHz, frequency band A will be considered as the second frequency band in the above explanation, and frequency band B will be considered as the third frequency band in the above explanation, and the above explanation will be applied.

[0235] Furthermore, if there are four or more frequency bands and the first, second, or third frequency band described above is included in these four or more frequency bands, the same implementation is possible by implementing the above description.

[0236] The AP then transmits the modulated signal described in this embodiment, and the terminal that receives the modulated signal performs processing such as demodulating the received modulated signal and decoding the error correction code to obtain data, thereby achieving the effects described in this embodiment.

[0237] (Supplementary Note 1) Naturally, the embodiments and other contents such as supplements described in this specification may be combined and implemented.

[0238] The configuration of the access point is not limited to that shown in FIG. 1, but the present disclosure can be implemented in any access point that has one or more or multiple transmitting antennas in each frequency band and generates and transmits one or more or multiple modulated signals in each frequency band.

[0239] Furthermore, each embodiment is merely an example, and even if a "modulation method, error correction coding method (error correction code to be used, code length, coding rate, etc.), control information, etc." is exemplified, it is possible to implement the same configuration even if a different "modulation method, error correction coding method (error correction code to be used, code length, coding rate, etc.), control information, etc." is applied.

[0240] Regarding the modulation method, even if a modulation method other than the modulation methods described in this specification is used, it is possible to implement the embodiments and other contents described in this specification. For example, APSK (e.g., 16APSK, 64APSK, 128APSK, 256APSK, 1024APSK, 4096APSK, etc.), PAM (e.g., 4PAM, 8PAM, 16PAM, 64PAM, 128PAM, 256PAM, 1024PAM, 4096PAM, etc.), PSK (e.g., BPSK, QPSK, 8PSK, 16PSK, 64PSK, 128PSK, 256PSK, 1024PSK, 4096PSK, etc.), QAM (e.g., 4QAM, 8QAM, 16QAM, 64QAM, 128QAM, 256QAM, 1024QAM, 4096QAM, etc.), etc. may be applied, and uniform mapping or non-uniform mapping may be used for each modulation scheme. Furthermore, the method of arranging 2, 4, 8, 16, 64, 128, 256, 1024, etc. signal points on the IQ plane (modulation method having 2, 4, 8, 16, 64, 128, 256, 1024, etc. signal points) is not limited to the signal point arrangement method of the modulation method shown in this specification.

[0241] In this specification, the transmitting device, receiving device, and communication device may be, for example, communication and broadcasting equipment such as a broadcast station, a base station, an access point, a terminal, and a mobile phone, or communication equipment such as a television, a radio, or a personal computer. The transmitting device and receiving device in the present disclosure may be equipment having a communication function, and may be configured to be connectable via some kind of interface to a device for executing an application, such as a television, a radio, a personal computer, or a mobile phone. In this embodiment, symbols other than data symbols, such as pilot symbols (preambles, unique words, postambles, reference symbols, midambles, etc.), control information symbols, null symbols, etc., may be arranged in any manner in a frame. Here, the symbols are called pilot symbols and control information symbols, but any naming method may be used; what is important is the function itself.

[0242] The pilot symbols may be known symbols modulated by PSK modulation in the transmitter and receiver, and the receiver uses these symbols to perform frequency synchronization, time synchronization, channel estimation of each modulated signal (estimation of CSI (Channel State Information)), signal detection, etc. Alternatively, the pilot symbols may allow the receiver to know the symbols transmitted by the transmitter by synchronizing with the receiver.

[0243] In addition, the control information symbols are used to transmit information that needs to be transmitted to the communication partner in order to realize communication other than data (application data, etc.) (for example, the modulation method used for communication, the error correction coding method, the coding rate of the error correction coding method, setting information at the upper layer, etc.).

[0244] The present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments and can be implemented with various modifications. For example, in the embodiments, the case where the communication method is performed as a communication device is described, but the present disclosure is not limited to this and the communication method can also be implemented as software.

[0245] For example, a program for executing the above-described communication method may be stored in advance in a ROM, and the program may be run by a CPU.

[0246] Furthermore, a program for executing the above-described communication method may be stored in a computer-readable storage medium, and the program stored in the storage medium may be recorded in the RAM of the computer, causing the computer to operate in accordance with the program.

[0247] Furthermore, each configuration of the above-described embodiments may be implemented as an LSI, which is typically an integrated circuit having input and output terminals. These may be individually integrated into a single chip, or a single chip may contain all or part of the configuration of each embodiment. While the term "LSI" is used here, it may also be referred to as an IC, system LSI, super LSI, or ultra LSI depending on the level of integration. Furthermore, the integration method is not limited to LSI; it may also be implemented using dedicated circuits or general-purpose processors. It may also be possible to use FPGAs, which can be programmed after LSI fabrication, or reconfigurable processors, which allow the connections and settings of circuit cells within an LSI to be reconfigured. Furthermore, if an integrated circuit technology that can replace LSI emerges due to advances in semiconductor technology or other derivative technologies, it is natural that such technology may be used to integrate functional blocks. The application of biotechnology, etc., is also a possibility.

[0248] The transmission method supported by the base station and the terminal may be a multi-carrier method such as OFDM, or a single-carrier method. The base station may also support both the multi-carrier method and the single-carrier method. There are multiple methods for generating a modulated signal for the single-carrier method, and any of these methods can be implemented. Examples of single-carrier methods include "Discrete Fourier Transform (DFT)-Spread Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM)," "Trajectory Constrained DFT-Spread OFDM," "OFDM based Single Carrier (SC)," "Single Carrier (SC)-FDMA (Frequency Division Multiple Access)," and "Guard interval DFT-Spread OFDM."

[0249] In addition, at least one of the FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) and the CPU (Central Processing Unit) may be configured to download all or part of the software required to realize the communication method described in the present disclosure via wireless or wired communication. Furthermore, all or part of the software for updates may be downloaded via wireless or wired communication. The downloaded software may then be stored in a storage unit, and at least one of the FPGA and the CPU may be operated based on the stored software to perform the digital signal processing described in the present disclosure.

[0250] In this case, the device having at least one of the FPGA and the CPU may be connected to the communication modem wirelessly or via a wire, and the communication method described in this disclosure may be realized by this device and the communication modem.

[0251] For example, a communication device such as a base station, AP, or terminal described herein may include at least one of an FPGA and a CPU, and may have an interface for externally obtaining software for operating at least one of the FPGA and the CPU. Furthermore, the communication device may have a storage unit for storing the software obtained from the outside, and may operate the FPGA and CPU based on the stored software to realize the signal processing described in the present disclosure.

[0252] In addition, in the frame configurations such as Figures 5A, 5B, 5C, 5D, 5E, 5F, 5G, 5H, 5I, 5J, 5K, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, and 14, in the "transmission method for the first frequency band, or the transmission method for the second frequency band, or the transmission method for the third frequency band," a MIMO (Multiple-Input Multiple-Output) transmission method in which multiple modulated signals are transmitted from multiple antennas may be used.

[0253] Alternatively, a MIMO transmission scheme may be used in which multiple modulated signals are transmitted from multiple antennas to one or more of the RUs in FIG. 6B.

[0254] (Supplementary Note 2) In this specification, the first frequency band is described as the 2.4 GHz band, the second frequency band as the 5 GHz band, and the third frequency band as the 6 (or 7) GHz band, but examples of the "first frequency band, second frequency band, and third frequency band" are not limited to these examples. The following may also be used.

[0255] For example, if there are multiple channels in the 2.4 GHz band, multiple channels in the 5 GHz band, and multiple channels in the 6 (or 7) GHz band, the following cases are possible:

[0256] Case 1: The first frequency band is a first channel in the 2.4 GHz band, the second frequency band is a second channel in the 2.4 GHz band, and the third frequency band is a first channel in the 5 GHz band.

[0257] Case 2: The first frequency band is a first channel in the 2.4 GHz band, the second frequency band is a first channel in the 5 GHz band, and the third frequency band is a second channel in the 5 GHz band.

[0258] Case 3: The first frequency band is the first channel in the 2.4 GHz band, the second frequency band is the second channel in the 2.4 GHz band, and the third frequency band is the first channel in the 6 (or 7) GHz band.

[0259] Case 4: The first frequency band is a first channel in the 2.4 GHz band, the second frequency band is a first channel in the 6 (or 7) GHz band, and the third frequency band is a second channel in the 6 (or 7) GHz band.

[0260] Case 5: The first frequency band is the first channel in the 5 GHz band, the second frequency band is the second channel in the 5 GHz band, and the third frequency band is the first channel in the 6 (or 7) GHz band.

[0261] Case 6: The first frequency band is a first channel in the 5 GHz band, the second frequency band is a first channel in the 6 (or 7) GHz band, and the third frequency band is a second channel in the 6 (or 7) GHz band.

[0262] Case 7: The first frequency band is a first channel in the 2.4 GHz band, the second frequency band is a second channel in the 2.4 GHz band, and the third frequency band is a third channel in the 2.4 GHz band.

[0263] Case 8: The first frequency band is a first channel in the 5 GHz band, the second frequency band is a second channel in the 5 GHz band, and the third frequency band is a third channel in the 5 GHz band.

[0264] Case 9: The first frequency band is a first channel in the 6 (or 7) GHz band, the second frequency band is a second channel in the 6 (or 7) GHz band, and the third frequency band is a third channel in the 6 (or 7) GHz band.

[0265] (Embodiment 3) In this embodiment, supplementary explanations are given to the first and second embodiments.

[0266] FIG. 1 shows the configuration of a communication device such as an AP.

[0267] Fig. 19A shows an example of a communication state of an AP. As shown in Fig. 19A, an AP 1901 communicates with a terminal 1902_1.

[0268] Fig. 19B shows an example of the communication state of an AP. As shown in Fig. 19B, an AP 1901 communicates with a terminal 1902_i (i is an integer between 1 and N, inclusive, where N is an integer greater than or equal to 2), that is, the AP communicates with two or more terminals.

[0269] The APs in the first and second embodiments are assumed to be in communication states as shown in FIGS. 19A and 19B.

[0270] First, the operation of the AP (communication device) in FIG. 1 when transmitting modulated signals using first frequency band 201, second frequency band 202, and third frequency band 203 will be described.

[0271] The communication device 113 receives a signal 114 containing data as input and outputs data 109 .

[0272] The transmission data processing unit 107 receives the data 109 and the control signal 112 as input, and outputs the first data 101_1, the second data 101_2, and the third data 101_3 based on the control signal 112.

[0273] For example, when the AP transmits a modulated signal in the first frequency band 201, the transmission data processing unit 107 outputs first data 101_1, when the AP transmits a modulated signal in the second frequency band 202, the transmission data processing unit 107 outputs second data 101_2, and when the AP transmits a modulated signal in the third frequency band 203, the transmission data processing unit 107 outputs third data 101_3.

[0274] For example, when the AP transmits a modulated signal of the first frequency band 201, a modulated signal of the second frequency band 202, and a modulated signal of the third frequency band 203, the transmission data processing unit 107 outputs the first data 101_1, the second data 101_2, and the third data 101_3. Note that, for example, the set of frequency bands to be used simultaneously is as described in the first embodiment, the second embodiment, etc.

[0275] The transmitting / receiving device 102_1 receives the first data 101_1 and the control signal 112 as input, and performs processes such as encoding of an error correction code and mapping based on information such as a transmission method, a modulation scheme, and an error correction coding scheme included in the control signal 112, to generate and output a first transmission signal 103_1 in a first frequency band 201. Then, the first modulated transmission signal 103_1 is output as a radio wave from an antenna 104_1.

[0276] The transmitting / receiving device 102_2 receives the second data 101_2 and the control signal 112 as input, and performs processes such as encoding of an error correction code and mapping based on information such as a transmission method, a modulation scheme, and an error correction coding scheme included in the control signal 112, to generate and output a second transmission signal 103_2 in a second frequency band 202. Then, the second modulated transmission signal 103_2 is output as a radio wave from an antenna 104_2.

[0277] The transmitting / receiving device 102_3 receives the third data 101_3 and the control signal 112 as input, and performs processes such as encoding of an error correction code and mapping based on information such as a transmission method, a modulation scheme, and an error correction coding scheme included in the control signal 112, to generate and output a 32nd transmission signal 103_3 in the third frequency band 203. Then, the third modulated signal transmission signal 103_3 is output as a radio wave from the antenna 104_3.

[0278] The antennas 104_1, 104_2, and 104_3 may each include one or more antennas. When multiple antennas are used, multiple modulated signals are transmitted, enabling MIMO (or MISO (Multiple-Input Single-Output)) transmission.

[0279] Next, a description will be given of the operation related to reception of the communication device in Fig. 1. When a modulated signal in the first frequency band 201 transmitted by a terminal is present, the transmission / reception device 102_1 of the AP (communication device) in Fig. 1 receives a first received signal 199_1 via an antenna 105_1 as input, performs processing such as demodulation (demapping) and decoding of error correction codes, and outputs a first data group 106_1.

[0280] When a modulated signal in the second frequency band 202 transmitted by a terminal is present, the transceiver device 102_2 of the AP (communication device) in FIG. 1 receives the second received signal 199_2 received by the antenna 105_2 as input, performs processing such as demodulation (demapping) and decoding of error correction codes, and outputs a second data group 106_2.

[0281] When a modulated signal of the third frequency band 203 transmitted by a terminal is present, the transceiver 102_3 of the AP (communication device) in FIG. 1 receives the third received signal 199_3 via the antenna 105_3 as input, performs processing such as demodulation (demapping) and decoding of error correction codes, and outputs a third data group 106_3.

[0282] The received data processing unit 108 receives the first data group 106_1, the second data group 106_2, and the third data group 106_3 as input, and outputs a received data group 110.

[0283] Control unit 111 receives received data group 110, determines one or more frequency bands from the first frequency band, the second frequency band, and the third frequency band to transmit the modulated signals, and outputs control signal 112 including information on the determination. It also outputs control signal 112 including information on the transmission method, modulation method, and error correction code encoding method for each modulated signal to be transmitted.

[0284] It should be noted that the antennas 105_1, 105_2, and 105_3 mean that one or more antennas are provided.

[0285] In FIG. 1, the AP is configured to include a portion for transmitting and receiving modulated signals in a first frequency band, a portion for transmitting and receiving modulated signals in a second frequency band, and a portion for transmitting and receiving modulated signals in a third frequency band. However, the AP can implement the embodiments of this specification by including two or more of the "portion for transmitting and receiving modulated signals in a first frequency band, a portion for transmitting and receiving modulated signals in a second frequency band, and a portion for transmitting and receiving modulated signals in a third frequency band."

[0286] The terminal communicating with AP 1901 shown in Figures 19A and 19B also has the configuration shown in Figure 1. However, while Figure 1 shows a configuration including a portion for transmitting and receiving modulated signals in a first frequency band, a portion for transmitting and receiving modulated signals in a second frequency band, and a portion for transmitting and receiving modulated signals in a third frequency band, it is possible to implement the embodiments of this specification by having the AP include two or more portions from among "a portion for transmitting and receiving modulated signals in a first frequency band, a portion for transmitting and receiving modulated signals in a second frequency band, and a portion for transmitting and receiving modulated signals in a third frequency band."

[0287] FIG. 20A shows the configuration of the transmitting section included in the transmitting / receiving devices 102_1, 102_2, and 102_3 of FIG.

[0288] The error correction coding group 2002 receives the control signal 2000 and the data 2001 as input, performs error correction coding based on the error correction coding method included in the control signal 2000, such as information on the code type, code length, and coding rate, and outputs the coded data group 2003. The error correction coding group 2002 may include one or more error correction coding units. Therefore, the coded data group 2003 is composed of data of one or more coded words.

[0289] Signal processing group 2004 receives control signal 2000 and coded data group 2003 as input, performs processing such as mapping (modulation), precoding, and interleaving based on control signal 2000, and outputs modulated signal group 2005.

[0290] For example, when signal processing group 2004 outputs one modulated signal, signal processing group 2004 performs, for example, interleaving and mapping, and outputs the single modulated signal as modulated signal group 2005. Furthermore, when signal processing group 2004 outputs multiple modulated signals, signal processing group 2004 performs, for example, interleaving, mapping, and, if necessary, precoding, and outputs the multiple modulated signals as modulated signal group 2005.

[0291] Radio processing group 2006 receives control signal 2000 and modulated signal group 2005 as input, and performs processing such as orthogonal modulation and frequency conversion, for generating OFDM (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing) signals, based on control signal 2000, and outputs transmit signal group 2007. For example, if modulated signal group 2005 is composed of N modulated signals, transmit signal group 2007 is generated, consisting of N transmit signals. N is an integer equal to or greater than 1. Then, transmit signal group 2005 is transmitted as radio waves from an antenna. If transmit signal group 2005 is composed of multiple transmit signals, transmit signal group 2005 is transmitted as radio waves using multiple antennas. When MIMO transmission is used, multiple modulated signals are transmitted at the same frequency and at the same time.

[0292] FIG. 20B shows the configuration of the receiving section provided in the transmitting / receiving devices 102_1, 102_2, and 102_3 of FIG.

[0293] Radio processing group 2052 receives control signal 2050 and received signal group 2051 as input, performs frequency conversion, orthogonal demodulation, and processing for OFDM, and outputs baseband signal group 2053. Note that received signal group 2051 is composed of one or more received signals, and baseband signal group 2053 is composed of one or more baseband signals.

[0294] The signal processing group 2054 receives the control signal 2050 and the baseband signal group 2053 as input, performs signal detection, time synchronization, frequency synchronization, frequency offset estimation, channel estimation, etc., and also performs demapping, and outputs likelihood 2055 of the received bit.

[0295] The error correction code decoding group 2056 receives the control signal 2050 and the likelihood 2056 of the received bit, decodes the error correction code based on the information on the error correction coding method included in the control signal 2050, and outputs the received data 2057.

[0296] (1) and (2) in FIG. 21A show examples of frequency bands that are used when an AP (or a terminal) transmits a modulated signal using the first frequency band.

[0297] In (1) of FIG. 21A, the horizontal axis represents frequency, the vertical axis represents time, and transmission symbols 2101, which are symbols contained in the modulated signal, are assumed to be in the 20 MHz band.

[0298] In (2) of FIG. 21A, the horizontal axis is frequency and the vertical axis is time, and transmission symbols 2101, which are symbols contained in the modulated signal, are assumed to be in the 40 MHz band.

[0299] In this way, for example, when an AP (or a terminal) transmits a modulated signal using the first frequency band, the frequency band used is assumed to be 20 MHz or 40 MHz. However, (1) and (2) in Figure 21A are merely examples.

[0300] (1), (2), (3) and (4) in Figure 21B show examples of frequency bands that an AP (or a terminal) uses when transmitting a modulated signal using the second frequency band.

[0301] In (1) of FIG. 21B, the horizontal axis is frequency and the vertical axis is time, and transmission symbols 2101, which are symbols contained in the modulated signal, are assumed to be in the 20 MHz band.

[0302] In (2) of FIG. 21B, the horizontal axis is frequency and the vertical axis is time, and transmission symbols 2101, which are symbols contained in the modulated signal, are assumed to be in the 40 MHz band.

[0303] In (3) of FIG. 21B, the horizontal axis is frequency and the vertical axis is time, and transmission symbols 2101, which are symbols contained in the modulated signal, are assumed to be in the 80 MHz band.

[0304] In (4) of FIG. 21B, the horizontal axis is frequency and the vertical axis is time, and transmission symbols 2101, which are symbols contained in the modulated signal, are assumed to be in the 160 MHz band.

[0305] In this way, for example, when an AP (or a terminal) transmits a modulated signal using the second frequency band, the frequency band used is assumed to be 20 MHz, 40 MHz, 80 MHz, or 160 MHz. However, (1), (2), (3), and (4) in Figure 21B are merely examples.

[0306] (1), (2), and (3) in FIG. 21C show examples of frequency bands that are used when an AP (or a terminal) transmits a modulated signal using the third frequency band.

[0307] In (1) of FIG. 21C, the horizontal axis is frequency and the vertical axis is time, and transmission symbols 2101, which are symbols contained in the modulated signal, are assumed to be in the 80 MHz band.

[0308] In (2) of FIG. 21C, the horizontal axis is frequency and the vertical axis is time, and transmission symbols 2101, which are symbols contained in the modulated signal, are assumed to be in the 160 MHz band.

[0309] In (3) of FIG. 21C, the horizontal axis is frequency and the vertical axis is time, and transmission symbols 2101, which are symbols contained in the modulated signal, are assumed to be in the 320 MHz band.

[0310] In this way, for example, when an AP (or a terminal) transmits a modulated signal using the third frequency band, the frequency band used is assumed to be 80 MHz, 160 MHz, or 320 MHz. However, (1), (2), and (3) in Figure 21C are merely examples.

[0311] Next, a case where the AP 1901 communicates with the terminal 1902_1 as shown in FIG. 19A will be described.

[0312] In the second embodiment, it has been explained that "at a certain time, data symbols addressed to the same terminal exist in the first frequency band, the second frequency band, and the third frequency band," or "at a certain time, data symbols addressed to the same terminal exist in the first frequency band and the second frequency band," or "at a certain time, data symbols addressed to the same terminal exist in the first frequency band and the third frequency band," or "at a certain time, data symbols addressed to the same terminal exist in the second frequency band and the third frequency band." An example of a method for transmitting RTS and CTS in this case will be described below.

[0313] 22A shows an example in which AP 1901 transmits an RTS to terminal 1902_1. In FIG. 22A, the horizontal axis represents frequency and the vertical axis represents time. As shown in FIG. 22A, RTSs 1_11 and 1_12, RTSs 2_11, 2_12, 2_13, 2_14, 2_15, 2_16, 2_17, and 2_18, and RTSs 3_11, 3_12, 3_13, and 3_14 exist at time A1.

[0314] Then, AP1901 transmits the RTSs 1_11 and 1_12 using the first frequency band 500_1. Note that the RTSs 1_11 and 1_12 each exist within an interval of, for example, a 20 MHz band. The RTS 1_11 exists in the first channel of the first frequency band 500_1, and the RTS 1_12 exists in the second channel of the first frequency band 500_1. Note that although only the first channel and the second channel are described in the first frequency band 500_1, other channels may exist, and AP1901 may transmit the RTS using a channel other than the first channel and the second channel.

[0315] Furthermore, the AP 1901 transmits RTSs 2_11, 2_12, 2_13, 2_14, 2_15, 2_16, 2_17, and 2_18 using the second frequency band 500_2. Note that each of the RTSs 2_11, 2_12, 2_13, 2_14, 2_15, 2_16, 2_17, and 2_18 exists within an interval of, for example, a 20 MHz band. The RTS 2_11 is assumed to be present on the first channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the RTS 2_12 is assumed to be present on the second channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the RTS 2_13 is assumed to be present on the third channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the RTS 2_14 is assumed to be present on the fourth channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the RTS 2_15 is assumed to be present on the fifth channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the RTS 2_16 is assumed to be present on the sixth channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the RTS 2_17 is assumed to be present on the seventh channel of the second frequency band 500_2, and the RTS 2_18 is assumed to be present on the eighth channel of the second frequency band 500_2. Although only channels 1 to 8 are shown in the second frequency band 500_2, other channels may exist, and AP1901 may transmit RTS using channels other than channels 1 to 8.

[0316] The AP 1901 transmits the RTSs 3_11, 3_12, 3_13, and 3_14 using the third frequency band 500_3. Note that the RTSs 3_11, 3_12, 3_13, and 3_14 each exist within an interval of, for example, an 80 MHz band. The RTS 3_11 exists on the first channel of the third frequency band 500_3, the RTS 3_12 exists on the second channel of the third frequency band 500_3, the RTS 3_13 exists on the third channel of the third frequency band 500_3, and the RTS 3_14 exists on the fourth channel of the third frequency band 500_3. Note that although only the first to fourth channels are shown in the third frequency band 500_3, other channels may exist, and the AP 1901 may transmit the RTS using a channel other than the first to fourth channels.

[0317] As described in the first embodiment, the RTS is assumed to include at least information on the addresses of communication partners. The RTS transmitted by the AP 1901 using the first frequency band is assumed to be capable of including address information of one or more communication partners (i.e., one or more terminals). Similarly, the RTS transmitted by the AP 1901 using the second frequency band is assumed to be capable of including address information of one or more communication partners (i.e., one or more terminals). The RTS transmitted by the AP 1901 using the third frequency band is assumed to be capable of including addresses of one or more communication partners (i.e., one or more terminals).

[0318] As shown in Figure 22A, when AP 1901 sends an RTS, the RTSs for 1_11 and 1_12, and the RTSs for 2_11, 2_12, 2_13, 2_14, 2_15, 2_16, 2_17, 2_18, and 3_11, 3_12, 3_13, and 3_14 each contain address information for one terminal (1902_1).

[0319] The terminal 1902_1 receives the RTS of FIG. 22A transmitted by the AP 1901. Then, based on the reception of the RTS, the terminal 1902_1 is assumed to be in a "terminal ready to receive" state in "channels 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 of the second frequency band 500_2" and "channel 1 and 2 of the third frequency band 500_3." FIG. 22B shows an example in which the terminal 1902_1 transmits a CTS to the AP 1901. In FIG. 22B, the horizontal axis represents frequency and the vertical axis represents time. As shown in FIG. 22B, the CTSs of 2_21, 2_22, 2_23, 2_24, 2_25, 2_26, 2_27, and 2_28 and the CTSs of 3_21 and 3_22 are present at time A2.

[0320] The terminal 1902_1 transmits CTSs 2_21, 2_22, 2_23, 2_24, 2_25, 2_26, 2_27, and 2_28 using the second frequency band 500_2. Each of the CTSs 2_21, 2_22, 2_23, 2_24, 2_25, 2_26, 2_27, and 2_28 exists within an interval of, for example, a 20 MHz band. The CTS 2_21 is assumed to be present on the first channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the CTS 2_22 is assumed to be present on the second channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the CTS 2_23 is assumed to be present on the third channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the CTS 2_24 is assumed to be present on the fourth channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the CTS 2_25 is assumed to be present on the fifth channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the CTS 2_26 is assumed to be present on the sixth channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the CTS 2_27 is assumed to be present on the seventh channel of the second frequency band 500_2, and the CTS 2_28 is assumed to be present on the eighth channel of the second frequency band 500_2. Note that although only the first to eighth channels are shown for the second frequency band 500_2, other channels may also be present.

[0321] Furthermore, the terminal 1902_1 transmits the CTSs 3_21 and 3_22 using the third frequency band 500_3. Note that the CTSs 3_21 and 3_22 are each present within an interval of, for example, an 80 MHz band. The CTS for 3_21 is assumed to be present on the first channel of the third frequency band 500_3, and the CTS for 3_22 is assumed to be present on the second channel of the third frequency band 500_3. Note that, although only the first to fourth channels are shown in the third frequency band 500_3, other channels may also be present.

[0322] The AP 1901 receives the CTS of FIG. 22B transmitted by the terminal 1902_1. Then, based on the reception of the CTS, the AP 1901 determines that "the symbol groups including data symbols are to be transmitted from the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, and eighth channels of the second frequency band 500_2" and the first and second channels of the third frequency band 500_3." FIG. 22C shows an example in which the AP 1901 transmits symbol groups including data symbols to the terminal 1902_1. In FIG. 22C, the horizontal axis represents frequency and the vertical axis represents time. As shown in FIG. 22C, the symbol groups of 2_31, 2_32, 2_33, 2_34, 2_35, 2_36, 2_37, and 2_38 and the symbol groups of 3_31 and 3_32 exist at the A3 time.

[0323] The AP 1901 transmits a group of symbols 2_31, 2_32, 2_33, 2_34, 2_35, 2_36, 2_37, and 2_38 using the second frequency band 500_2. Each of the group of symbols 2_31, 2_32, 2_33, 2_34, 2_35, 2_36, 2_37, and 2_38 exists within an interval of, for example, a 20 MHz band. The symbol group 2_31 is assumed to exist in the first channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the symbol group 2_32 is assumed to exist in the second channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the symbol group 2_33 is assumed to exist in the third channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the symbol group 2_34 is assumed to exist in the fourth channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the symbol group 2_35 is assumed to exist in the fifth channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the symbol group 2_36 is assumed to exist in the sixth channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the symbol group 2_37 is assumed to exist in the seventh channel of the second frequency band 500_2, and the symbol group 2_38 is assumed to exist in the eighth channel of the second frequency band 500_2. Note that although only the first to eighth channels are shown in the second frequency band 500_2, other channels may also exist.

[0324] Furthermore, the AP 1901 transmits the symbol groups 3_31 and 3_32 using the third frequency band 500_3. The symbol groups 3_31 and 3_32 are each present within an interval of, for example, an 80 MHz band. The symbol group 3_31 is assumed to be present in the first channel of the third frequency band 500_3, and the symbol group 3_32 is assumed to be present in the second channel of the third frequency band 500_3. Although only the first to fourth channels are shown in the third frequency band 500_3, other channels may also be present.

[0325] As described above, for example, the AP can transmit data symbols to a specific terminal using the second frequency band and the third frequency band, thereby improving the data transmission speed for the specific terminal. In this case, the RTS is characterized by including only the address of the specific terminal. Note that the configuration methods for the channels used by the first frequency, the second frequency, and the third frequency are not limited to the above examples. Therefore, configuration methods different from the examples shown in Figures 22A, 22B, and 22C can also be used.

[0326] Next, a second example will be described in which the AP 1901 communicates with the terminal 1902_1 as shown in FIG. 19A.

[0327] An example in which the AP 1901 transmits an RTS to the terminal 1902_1 is shown in Fig. 22A. Note that Fig. 22A has already been explained, so detailed explanation will be omitted.

[0328] The terminal 1902_1 receives the RTS of FIG. 22A transmitted by the AP 1901. Then, based on the reception of the RTS, the terminal 1902_1 is assumed to be in a "terminal ready to receive" state in the "first channel of the first frequency band 500_1," the "first channel, second channel, third channel, and fourth channel of the second frequency band 500_2," and the "first channel of the third frequency band 500_3." FIG. 23A shows an example in which the terminal 1902_1 transmits a CTS to the AP 1901. In FIG. 23A, the horizontal axis represents frequency and the vertical axis represents time. As shown in FIG. 23A, the CTS of 1_21, the CTSs of 2_21, 2_22, 2_23, and 2_24, and the CTS of 3_21 are present at time A2.

[0329] The terminal 1902_1 transmits the CTS of 1_21 using the first frequency band 500_1. The CTS of 1_21 exists, for example, within a 20 MHz band interval. The CTS of 1_21 exists in the first channel of the first frequency band 500_1. Although only the first channel and the second channel are shown in the first frequency band 500_1, other channels may also exist.

[0330] The terminal 1902_1 transmits CTSs 2_21, 2_22, 2_23, and 2_24 using the second frequency band 500_2. Note that the CTSs 2_21, 2_22, 2_23, and 2_24 each exist within, for example, a 20 MHz band interval. The CTS for 2_21 is assumed to exist in the first channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the CTS for 2_22 is assumed to exist in the second channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the CTS for 2_23 is assumed to exist in the third channel of the second frequency band 500_2, and the CTS for 2_24 is assumed to exist in the fourth channel of the second frequency band 500_2. Note that although only the first to eighth channels are shown in the second frequency band 500_2, other channels may also exist.

[0331] The terminal 1902_1 transmits the CTS of 3_21 using the third frequency band 500_3. The CTS of 3_21 exists, for example, within an interval of an 80 MHz band. The CTS of 3_21 exists in the first channel of the third frequency band 500_3. Although only the first to fourth channels are shown in the third frequency band 500_3, other channels may exist.

[0332] The AP 1901 receives the CTS of FIG. 23A transmitted by the terminal 1902_1. Then, based on the reception of the CTS, the AP 1901 determines that "the symbol groups including data symbols are to be transmitted from the first channel of the first frequency band 500_1," the first channel, the second channel, the third channel, and the fourth channel of the second frequency band 500_2, and the first channel of the third frequency band 500_3." FIG. 23B shows an example in which the AP 1901 transmits symbol groups including data symbols to the terminal 1902_1. In FIG. 23B, the horizontal axis represents frequency and the vertical axis represents time. As shown in FIG. 23B, the symbol group 1_31, the symbol groups 2_31, 2_32, 2_33, and 2_34, and the symbol group 3_31 exist at the A3 time.

[0333] The AP 1901 transmits the symbol group 1_31 using the first frequency band 500_1. The symbol group 1_31 exists, for example, within a 20 MHz band interval. The symbol group 1_31 exists in the first channel of the first frequency band 500_1. Although only the first channel and the second channel are shown in the first frequency band 500_1, other channels may also exist.

[0334] The AP 1901 transmits symbol groups 2_31, 2_32, 2_33, and 2_34 using the second frequency band 500_2. The symbol groups 2_31, 2_32, 2_33, and 2_34 each exist within, for example, a 20 MHz band interval. The symbol group 2_31 exists in the first channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the symbol group 2_32 exists in the second channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the symbol group 2_33 exists in the third channel of the second frequency band 500_2, and the symbol group 2_34 exists in the fourth channel of the second frequency band 500_2. Although only the first to eighth channels are shown in the second frequency band 500_2, other channels may also exist.

[0335] The AP 1901 transmits the symbol group 3_31 using the third frequency band 500_3. The symbol group 3_31 exists, for example, within an interval of an 80 MHz band. The symbol group 3_31 exists in the first channel of the third frequency band 500_3. Although only the first to fourth channels are shown in the third frequency band 500_3, other channels may also exist.

[0336] As described above, for example, the AP can transmit data symbols to a specific terminal using the first frequency band, the second frequency band, and the third frequency band, thereby improving the data transmission speed for the specific terminal. In this case, the RTS is characterized by including only the address of the specific terminal. Note that the configuration methods for the channels used by the first frequency, the second frequency, and the third frequency are not limited to the above examples. Therefore, configuration methods different from the examples shown in Figures 22A, 23A, and 23B can also be used.

[0337] A third example will be described in which the AP 1901 communicates with the terminal 1902_1 as shown in FIG. 19A.

[0338] An example in which the AP 1901 transmits an RTS to the terminal 1902_1 is shown in Fig. 22A. Note that Fig. 22A has already been explained, so detailed explanation will be omitted.

[0339] The terminal 1902_1 receives the RTS of FIG. 22A transmitted by the AP 1901. Then, based on the reception of the RTS, the terminal 1902_1 is assumed to be in a "terminal ready to receive" state in "the first and second channels of the first frequency band 500_1" and "the first, second, third and fourth channels of the second frequency band 500_2." In FIG. 24A, the horizontal axis represents frequency and the vertical axis represents time. As shown in FIG. 24A, the CTSs of 1_21 and 1_22 and the CTSs of 2_21, 2_22, 2_23 and 2_24 exist at time A2.

[0340] The terminal 1902_1 transmits CTSs 1_21 and 1_22 using the first frequency band 500_1. Note that the CTSs 1_21 and 1_22 each exist within a 20 MHz band interval. The CTS 1_21 exists in the first channel of the first frequency band 500_1, and the CTS 1_22 exists in the second channel of the first frequency band 500_1. Note that although only the first channel and the second channel are shown in the first frequency band 500_1, other channels may also exist.

[0341] The terminal 1902_1 transmits CTSs 2_21, 2_22, 2_23, and 2_24 using the second frequency band 500_2. Note that the CTSs 2_21, 2_22, 2_23, and 2_24 each exist within a 20 MHz band interval. The CTS for 2_21 is assumed to exist in the first channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the CTS for 2_22 is assumed to exist in the second channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the CTS for 2_23 is assumed to exist in the third channel of the second frequency band 500_2, and the CTS for 2_24 is assumed to exist in the fourth channel of the second frequency band 500_2. Note that although only the first to eighth channels are shown in the second frequency band 500_2, other channels may also exist.

[0342] The AP 1901 receives the CTS of FIG. 24A transmitted by the terminal 1902_1. Then, based on the reception of the CTS, the AP 1901 determines that "the symbol groups including data symbols are to be transmitted from the first channel and the second channel of the first frequency band 500_1" and the first channel, the second channel, the third channel, and the fourth channel of the second frequency band 500_2." FIG. 24B shows an example in which the AP 1901 transmits a data symbol group including data symbols to the terminal 1902_1. In FIG. 24B, the horizontal axis represents frequency and the vertical axis represents time. As shown in FIG. 24B, the symbol groups 1_31 and 1_32 and the symbol groups 2_31, 2_32, 2_33, and 2_34 exist at the A3 time.

[0343] The AP 1901 transmits the symbol groups 1_31 and 1_32 using the first frequency band 500_1. The symbol groups 1_31 and 1_32 exist within an interval of, for example, a 20 MHz band. The symbol group 1_31 exists in the first channel of the first frequency band 500_1, and the symbol group 1_32 exists in the second channel of the first frequency band 500_1. Although only the first channel and the second channel are shown in the first frequency band 500_1, other channels may also exist.

[0344] The AP 1901 transmits symbol groups 2_31, 2_32, 2_33, and 2_34 using the second frequency band 500_2. The symbol groups 2_31, 2_32, 2_33, and 2_34 exist within, for example, a 20 MHz band interval. The symbol group 2_31 exists in the first channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the symbol group 2_32 exists in the second channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the symbol group 2_33 exists in the third channel of the second frequency band 500_2, and the symbol group 2_34 exists in the fourth channel of the second frequency band 500_2. Although only the first to eighth channels are shown in the second frequency band 500_2, other channels may also exist.

[0345] As described above, since the AP can transmit data symbols to a specific terminal using the first frequency band and the second frequency band, it is possible to obtain the effect of improving the data transmission speed to the specific terminal. At this time, the RTS is characterized in that it contains only the address of the specific terminal. Note that the configuration method of the channel used by the first frequency, the channel used by the second frequency, and the channel used by the third frequency are not limited to the above examples. Therefore, it is also possible to implement configuration methods different from the examples of Figures 22A, 24A, and 24B.

[0346] A fourth example will be described in which the AP 1901 communicates with the terminal 1902_1 as shown in FIG. 19A.

[0347] An example in which the AP 1901 transmits an RTS to the terminal 1902_1 is shown in Fig. 22A. Note that Fig. 22A has already been explained, so detailed explanation will be omitted.

[0348] The terminal 1902_1 receives the RTS of FIG. 22A transmitted by the AP 1901. Then, based on the reception of the RTS, the terminal 1902_1 is assumed to be in a "terminal ready to receive" state in the "first and second channels of the first frequency band 500_1" and the "first channel of the third frequency band 500_3." FIG. 25A shows an example in which the terminal 1902_1 transmits a CTS to the AP 1901. In FIG. 25A, the horizontal axis represents frequency and the vertical axis represents time. As shown in FIG. 25A, the CTSs of 1_21 and 1_22 and the CTS of 3_21 exist at the A2 time.

[0349] The terminal 1902_1 transmits the CTSs 1_21 and 1_22 using the first frequency band 500_1. Note that the CTSs 1_21 and 1_22 are each present within an interval of, for example, a 20 MHz band. The CTS 1_21 is assumed to be present on the first channel of the first frequency band 500_1, and the CTS 1_22 is assumed to be present on the second channel of the first frequency band 500_1. Note that, although only the first channel and the second channel are shown in the first frequency band 500_1, other channels may also be present.

[0350] The terminal 1902_1 transmits the CTS of 3_21 using the third frequency band 500_3. The CTS of 3_21 exists, for example, within an interval of an 80 MHz band. The CTS of 3_21 exists in the first channel of the third frequency band 500_3. Although only the first to fourth channels are shown in the third frequency band 500_3, other channels may exist.

[0351] AP 1901 receives the CTS of FIG. 25A transmitted by terminal 1902_1. Then, based on the reception of the CTS, AP 1901 determines that "the symbol groups including data symbols will be transmitted from the first channel and the second channel of the first frequency band 500_1" and the "first channel of the third frequency band 500_3." FIG. 25B shows an example in which AP 1901 transmits symbol groups including data symbols to terminal 1902_1. In FIG. 25B, the horizontal axis represents frequency and the vertical axis represents time. As shown in FIG. 25B, symbol groups 1_31 and 1_32 and symbol group 3_31 exist at time A3.

[0352] The AP 1901 transmits the symbol groups 1_31 and 1_32 using the first frequency band 500_1. The symbol groups 1_31 and 1_32 exist within an interval of, for example, a 20 MHz band. The symbol group 1_31 exists in the first channel of the first frequency band 500_1, and the symbol group 1_32 exists in the second channel of the first frequency band 500_1. Although only the first channel and the second channel are shown in the first frequency band 500_1, other channels may also exist.

[0353] The AP 1901 transmits the symbol group 3_31 using the third frequency band 500_3. The symbol group 3_31 exists, for example, within an interval of an 80 MHz band. The symbol group 3_31 exists in the first channel of the third frequency band 500_3. Although only the first to fourth channels are shown in the third frequency band 500_3, other channels may also exist.

[0354] As described above, for example, the AP can transmit data symbols to a specific terminal using the first frequency band and the third frequency band, thereby improving the data transmission speed for the specific terminal. In this case, the RTS is characterized by including only the address of the specific terminal. Note that the methods for configuring the channels used by the first frequency, the second frequency, and the third frequency are not limited to the above examples. Therefore, configuration methods different from those shown in Figures 22A, 25A, and 25B can also be used.

[0355] A fifth example will be described in which the AP 1901 communicates with the terminal 1902_1 as shown in FIG. 19A.

[0356] 26A shows an example in which AP 1901 transmits an RTS to terminal 1902_1. In FIG. 26A, the horizontal axis represents frequency and the vertical axis represents time. As shown in FIG. 26A, RTSs for 2_11, 2_12, 2_13, 2_14, 2_15, 2_16, 2_17, and 2_18 and RTSs for 3_13 and 3_14 exist at time A1.

[0357] Then, the AP 1901 transmits the RTSs 2_11, 2_12, 2_13, 2_14, 2_15, 2_16, 2_17, and 2_18 using the second frequency band 500_2. Note that the RTSs 2_11, 2_12, 2_13, 2_14, 2_15, 2_16, 2_17, and 2_18 each exist within an interval of, for example, a 20 MHz band. The RTS 2_11 is assumed to be present on the first channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the RTS 2_12 is assumed to be present on the second channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the RTS 2_13 is assumed to be present on the third channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the RTS 2_14 is assumed to be present on the fourth channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the RTS 2_15 is assumed to be present on the fifth channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the RTS 2_16 is assumed to be present on the sixth channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the RTS 2_17 is assumed to be present on the seventh channel of the second frequency band 500_2, and the RTS 2_18 is assumed to be present on the eighth channel of the second frequency band 500_2. Although only channels 1 to 8 are shown in the second frequency band 500_2, other channels may exist, and AP1901 may transmit RTS using channels other than channels 1 to 8.

[0358] Furthermore, AP1901 transmits RTSs 3_13 and 3_14 using the third frequency band 500_3. Note that the RTSs 3_13 and 3_14 each exist within an interval of, for example, an 80 MHz band. The RTS 3_13 exists on the third channel of the third frequency band 500_3, and the RTS 3_14 exists on the fourth channel of the third frequency band 500_3. Note that, although only the first channel to the fourth channel are described in the third frequency band 500_3, other channels may exist, and AP1901 may transmit the RTS using a channel other than the first channel to the fourth channel.

[0359] As described in the first embodiment, the RTS includes at least information about the address of the communication partner. The RTS transmitted by the AP 1901 using the second frequency band can include address information of one or more communication partners (i.e., one or more terminals). The RTS transmitted by the AP 1901 using the third frequency band can include addresses of one or more communication partners (i.e., one or more terminals).

[0360] As shown in FIG. 26A, when AP 1901 transmits RTS, each of RTSs 2_11, 2_12, 2_13, 2_14, 2_15, 2_16, 2_17, 2_18, and 3_13 and 3_14 includes address information of one terminal (1902_1).

[0361] The terminal 1902_1 receives the RTS of FIG. 26A transmitted by the AP 1901. Then, based on the reception of the RTS, the terminal 1902_1 is assumed to be in a "terminal ready to receive" state in "channels 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 of the second frequency band 500_2" and "channels 3 and 4 of the third frequency band 500_3." FIG. 26B shows an example in which the terminal 1902_1 transmits a CTS to the AP 1901. In FIG. 26B, the horizontal axis represents frequency and the vertical axis represents time. As shown in FIG. 26B, the CTSs of 2_21, 2_22, 2_23, 2_24, 2_25, 2_26, 2_27, and 2_28 and the CTSs of 3_23 and 3_24 exist at time A2.

[0362] The terminal 1902_1 transmits CTSs 2_21, 2_22, 2_23, 2_24, 2_25, 2_26, 2_27, and 2_28 using the second frequency band 500_2. Each of the CTSs 2_21, 2_22, 2_23, 2_24, 2_25, 2_26, 2_27, and 2_28 exists within an interval of, for example, a 20 MHz band. The CTS 2_21 is assumed to be present on the first channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the CTS 2_22 is assumed to be present on the second channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the CTS 2_23 is assumed to be present on the third channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the CTS 2_24 is assumed to be present on the fourth channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the CTS 2_25 is assumed to be present on the fifth channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the CTS 2_26 is assumed to be present on the sixth channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the CTS 2_27 is assumed to be present on the seventh channel of the second frequency band 500_2, and the CTS 2_28 is assumed to be present on the eighth channel of the second frequency band 500_2. Note that although only the first to eighth channels are shown for the second frequency band 500_2, other channels may also be present.

[0363] Furthermore, the terminal 1902_1 transmits the CTSs 3_23 and 3_24 using the third frequency band 500_3. Note that the CTSs 3_23 and 3_24 are each present within an interval of, for example, an 80 MHz band. The CTS 3_23 is assumed to be present on the third channel of the third frequency band 500_3, and the CTS 3_24 is assumed to be present on the fourth channel of the third frequency band 500_3. Note that, although only the first to fourth channels are shown in the third frequency band 500_3, other channels may also be present.

[0364] The AP 1901 receives the CTS of FIG. 26B transmitted by the terminal 1902_1. Then, based on the reception of the CTS, the AP 1901 determines that "the symbol groups including data symbols are to be transmitted from the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, and eighth channels of the second frequency band 500_2" and the third and fourth channels of the third frequency band 500_3." FIG. 26C shows an example in which the AP 1901 transmits symbol groups including data symbols to the terminal 1902_1. In FIG. 26C, the horizontal axis represents frequency and the vertical axis represents time. As shown in FIG. 26C, the symbol groups of 2_31, 2_32, 2_33, 2_34, 2_35, 2_36, 2_37, and 2_38 and the symbol groups of 3_33 and 3_34 exist at the A3 time.

[0365] The AP 1901 transmits a group of symbols 2_31, 2_32, 2_33, 2_34, 2_35, 2_36, 2_37, and 2_38 using the second frequency band 500_2. Each of the group of symbols 2_31, 2_32, 2_33, 2_34, 2_35, 2_36, 2_37, and 2_38 exists within an interval of, for example, a 20 MHz band. The symbol group 2_31 is assumed to exist in the first channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the symbol group 2_32 is assumed to exist in the second channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the symbol group 2_33 is assumed to exist in the third channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the symbol group 2_34 is assumed to exist in the fourth channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the symbol group 2_35 is assumed to exist in the fifth channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the symbol group 2_36 is assumed to exist in the sixth channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the symbol group 2_37 is assumed to exist in the seventh channel of the second frequency band 500_2, and the symbol group 2_38 is assumed to exist in the eighth channel of the second frequency band 500_2. Note that although only the first to eighth channels are shown in the second frequency band 500_2, other channels may also exist.

[0366] Furthermore, the AP 1901 transmits symbol groups 3_33 and 3_34 using the third frequency band 500_3. Note that the symbol groups 3_33 and 3_34 each exist within an interval of, for example, an 80 MHz band. The symbol group 3_33 exists in the third channel of the third frequency band 500_3, and the symbol group 3_34 exists in the fourth channel of the third frequency band 500_3. Note that, although only the first channel to the fourth channel are shown in the third frequency band 500_3, other channels may also exist.

[0367] As described above, for example, the AP can transmit data symbols to a specific terminal using the second frequency band and the third frequency band, thereby improving the data transmission speed for the specific terminal. In this case, the RTS is characterized by including only the address of the specific terminal. Note that the methods for configuring the channel used by the first frequency, the channel used by the second frequency, and the channel used by the third frequency are not limited to the above examples. Therefore, configuration methods different from those shown in Figures 26A, 26B, and 26C can also be used.

[0368] A sixth example will be described in which the AP 1901 communicates with the terminal 1902_1 as shown in FIG. 19A.

[0369] Fig. 27A shows an example in which AP 1901 transmits an RTS to terminal 1902_1. In Fig. 27A, the horizontal axis represents frequency and the vertical axis represents time. As shown in Fig. 27A, RTSs 1_11 and 1_12, and RTSs 2_13, 2_14, 2_15, and 2_16 exist at time A1.

[0370] Then, AP1901 transmits the RTSs 1_11 and 1_12 using the first frequency band 500_1. Note that the RTSs 1_11 and 1_12 each exist within an interval of, for example, a 20 MHz band. The RTS 1_11 exists in the first channel of the first frequency band 500_1, and the RTS 1_12 exists in the second channel of the first frequency band 500_1. Note that although only the first channel and the second channel are described in the first frequency band 500_1, other channels may exist, and AP1901 may transmit the RTS using a channel other than the first channel and the second channel.

[0371] Furthermore, the AP 1901 transmits RTSs 2_13, 2_14, 2_15, and 2_16 using the second frequency band 500_2. Note that the RTSs 2_13, 2_14, 2_15, and 2_16 each exist within an interval of, for example, a 20 MHz band.

[0372] The RTS of 2_13 is assumed to exist on the third channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the RTS of 2_14 is assumed to exist on the fourth channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the RTS of 2_15 is assumed to exist on the fifth channel of the second frequency band 500_2, and the RTS of 2_16 is assumed to exist on the sixth channel of the second frequency band 500_2. Note that, although only the first channel to the eighth channel are described in the second frequency band 500_2, other channels may exist, and the AP 1901 may transmit the RTS using a channel other than the first channel to the eighth channel.

[0373] As described in the first embodiment, the RTS includes at least information on the address of a communication partner. The RTS transmitted by the AP 1901 using the first frequency band can include information on the address of one or more communication partners (i.e., one or more terminals). Similarly, the RTS transmitted by the AP 1901 using the second frequency band can include information on the address of one or more communication partners (i.e., one or more terminals).

[0374] As shown in FIG. 27A, when AP 1901 transmits an RTS, each of the RTSs 1_11 and 1_12 and 2_13, 2_14, 2_15, and 2_16 includes address information of one terminal (1902_1).

[0375] The terminal 1902_1 receives the RTS of FIG. 27A transmitted by the AP 1901. Then, based on the reception of the RTS, the terminal 1902_1 is assumed to be in a "terminal ready to receive" state in "the first and second channels of the first frequency band" and "the third and fourth channels of the second frequency band 500_2." FIG. 27B shows an example in which the terminal 1902_1 transmits a CTS to the AP 1901. In FIG. 27B, the horizontal axis represents frequency and the vertical axis represents time. As shown in FIG. 27B, the CTSs 1_21 and 1_22 and the CTSs 2_23 and 2_24 exist at time A2.

[0376] The terminal 1902_1 transmits the CTSs 1_21 and 1_22 using the first frequency band 500_1. Note that the CTSs 1_21 and 1_22 are each present within an interval of, for example, a 20 MHz band. The CTS 1_21 is assumed to be present on the first channel of the first frequency band 500_1, and the CTS 1_22 is assumed to be present on the second channel of the first frequency band 500_1. Note that, although only the first channel and the second channel are shown in the first frequency band 500_1, other channels may also be present.

[0377] The terminal 1902_1 transmits the CTSs 2_23 and 2_24 using the second frequency band 500_2. Note that the CTSs 2_23 and 2_24 are each present within an interval of, for example, a 20 MHz band. The CTS for 2_23 is assumed to be present on the third channel of the second frequency band 500_2, and the CTS for 2_24 is assumed to be present on the fourth channel of the second frequency band 500_2. Note that, although only the first to eighth channels are shown in the second frequency band 500_2, other channels may also be present.

[0378] AP1901 receives the CTS of FIG. 27B transmitted by terminal 1902_1. Then, based on the reception of the CTS, AP1901 determines that "the symbol groups including data symbols are to be transmitted from the first and second channels of the first frequency band 500_1 and the third and fourth channels of the second frequency band 500_2." FIG. 27C shows an example in which AP1901 transmits symbol groups including data symbols to terminal 1902_1. In FIG. 27C, the horizontal axis represents frequency and the vertical axis represents time. As shown in FIG. 27C, the symbol groups of 1_31 and 1_32 and the symbol groups of 2_33 and 2_34 exist at time A3.

[0379] The AP 1901 transmits the symbol groups 1_31 and 1_32 using the first frequency band 500_1. The symbol groups 1_31 and 1_32 exist within an interval of, for example, a 20 MHz band. The symbol group 1_31 exists in the first channel of the first frequency band 500_1, and the symbol group 1_32 exists in the second channel of the first frequency band 500_1. Although only the first channel and the second channel are shown in the first frequency band 500_1, other channels may also exist.

[0380] The AP 1901 transmits the symbol groups 2_33 and 2_34 using the second frequency band 500_2. The symbol groups 2_33 and 2_34 are each present within an interval of, for example, a 20 MHz band. The symbol group 2_33 is assumed to be present in the third channel of the second frequency band 500_2, and the symbol group 2_34 is assumed to be present in the fourth channel of the second frequency band 500_2. Although only the first to eighth channels are shown in the second frequency band 500_2, other channels may also be present.

[0381] As described above, for example, an AP can transmit data symbols to a specific terminal using the first frequency band and the second frequency band, thereby improving the data transmission speed for the specific terminal. In this case, the RTS contains only the address of the specific terminal. Note that the methods for configuring the channels used by the first frequency, the second frequency, and the third frequency are not limited to the above examples. Therefore, configuration methods different from those shown in Figures 27A, 27B, and 27C can also be used.

[0382] A seventh example will be described in which the AP 1901 communicates with the terminal 1902_1 as shown in FIG. 19A.

[0383] Fig. 28A shows an example in which AP 1901 transmits an RTS to terminal 1902_1. In Fig. 28A, the horizontal axis represents frequency and the vertical axis represents time. As shown in Fig. 28A, RTSs 1_11 and 1_12 and RTSs 3_13 and 3_14 exist at time A1.

[0384] Then, AP1901 transmits the RTSs 1_11 and 1_12 using the first frequency band 500_1. Note that the RTSs 1_11 and 1_12 each exist within an interval of, for example, a 20 MHz band. The RTS 1_11 exists in the first channel of the first frequency band 500_1, and the RTS 1_12 exists in the second channel of the first frequency band 500_1. Note that although only the first channel and the second channel are described in the first frequency band 500_1, other channels may exist, and AP1901 may transmit the RTS using a channel other than the first channel and the second channel.

[0385] Furthermore, AP1901 transmits RTSs 3_13 and 3_14 using the third frequency band 500_3. Note that the RTSs 3_13 and 3_14 each exist within an interval of, for example, an 80 MHz band. The RTS 3_13 exists on the third channel of the third frequency band 500_3, and the RTS 3_14 exists on the fourth channel of the third frequency band 500_3. Note that, although only the first channel to the fourth channel are described in the third frequency band 500_3, other channels may exist, and AP1901 may transmit the RTS using a channel other than the first channel to the fourth channel.

[0386] As described in the first embodiment, the RTS includes at least information on the address of a communication partner. The RTS transmitted by the AP 1901 using the first frequency band can include information on the address of one or more communication partners (i.e., one or more terminals). Similarly, the RTS transmitted by the AP 1901 using the third frequency band can include information on the address of one or more communication partners (i.e., one or more terminals).

[0387] As shown in FIG. 28A, when AP 1901 transmits an RTS, each of the RTSs 1_11 and 1_12 and 3_13 and 3_14 includes address information of one terminal (1902_1).

[0388] The terminal 1902_1 receives the RTS of FIG. 28A transmitted by the AP 1901. Then, based on the reception of the RTS, the terminal 1902_1 is assumed to be in a "terminal ready to receive" state in "the first and second channels of the first frequency band" and "the third and fourth channels of the third frequency band 500_3." FIG. 28B shows an example in which the terminal 1902_1 transmits a CTS to the AP 1901. In FIG. 28B, the horizontal axis represents frequency and the vertical axis represents time. As shown in FIG. 28B, the CTSs of 1_21 and 1_22 and the CTSs of 3_23 and 3_24 exist at time A2.

[0389] The terminal 1902_1 transmits the CTSs 1_21 and 1_22 using the first frequency band 500_1. Note that the CTSs 1_21 and 1_22 are each present within an interval of, for example, a 20 MHz band. The CTS 1_21 is assumed to be present on the first channel of the first frequency band 500_1, and the CTS 1_22 is assumed to be present on the second channel of the first frequency band 500_1. Note that, although only the first channel and the second channel are shown in the first frequency band 500_1, other channels may also be present.

[0390] The terminal 1902_1 transmits the CTSs 3_23 and 3_24 using the third frequency band 500_3. Note that the CTSs 3_23 and 3_24 are each present within an interval of, for example, an 80 MHz band. The CTS 3_23 is assumed to be present on the third channel of the third frequency band 500_3, and the CTS 3_24 is assumed to be present on the fourth channel of the third frequency band 500_3. Note that, although only the first to fourth channels are shown in the third frequency band 500_3, other channels may also be present.

[0391] AP1901 receives the CTS of FIG. 28B transmitted by terminal 1902_1. Then, based on the reception of the CTS, AP1901 determines that "the symbol groups including data symbols are to be transmitted from the first and second channels of the first frequency band 500_1 and the third and fourth channels of the third frequency band 500_3." FIG. 28C shows an example in which AP1901 transmits symbol groups including data symbols to terminal 1902_1. In FIG. 28C, the horizontal axis represents frequency and the vertical axis represents time. As shown in FIG. 28C, the symbol groups of 1_31 and 1_32 and the symbol groups of 3_33 and 3_34 exist at time A3.

[0392] The AP 1901 transmits the symbol groups 1_31 and 1_32 using the first frequency band 500_1. The symbol groups 1_31 and 1_32 exist within an interval of, for example, a 20 MHz band. The symbol group 1_31 exists in the first channel of the first frequency band 500_1, and the symbol group 1_32 exists in the second channel of the first frequency band 500_1. Although only the first channel and the second channel are shown in the first frequency band 500_1, other channels may also exist.

[0393] The AP 1901 transmits the symbol groups 3_33 and 3_34 using the third frequency band 500_3. The symbol groups 3_33 and 3_34 are each present within an interval of, for example, an 80 MHz band. The symbol group 3_33 is assumed to be present in the third channel of the third frequency band 500_3, and the symbol group 3_34 is assumed to be present in the fourth channel of the third frequency band 500_3. Although only the first channel to the fourth channel are shown in the third frequency band 500_3, other channels may also be present.

[0394] As described above, for example, an AP can transmit data symbols to a specific terminal using the first frequency band and the third frequency band, thereby improving the data transmission speed for the specific terminal. In this case, the RTS is characterized by including only the address of the specific terminal. Note that the methods for configuring the channel used by the first frequency, the channel used by the second frequency, and the channel used by the third frequency are not limited to the above examples. Therefore, configuration methods different from those shown in Figures 28A, 28B, and 28C can also be used.

[0395] In the above-mentioned "first to seventh examples when AP1901 communicates with terminal 1902_1 as shown in FIG. 19A," examples were described in which when AP1901 transmits an RTS, the address information of the communication partner included in the RTS is configured with the address information of one communication partner. Below, examples will be described in which when AP1901 transmits an RTS, the address information of the communication partner included in the RTS is configured with the address information of two or more communication partners.

[0396] 19B, consider a case where AP 1901 communicates with a plurality of terminals, i.e., terminal 1902_i. Note that i is an integer between 1 and N, and N is an integer greater than or equal to 2. For simplicity, the following description will be given taking as an example a case where AP 1901 communicates with terminals 1902_1 and 1902_2.

[0397] Fig. 29A shows an example in which AP 1901 transmits RTS to terminals 1902_1 and 1902_2. In Fig. 29A, the horizontal axis represents frequency and the vertical axis represents time. As shown in Fig. 29A, RTSs for 2_11, 2_12, 2_13, 2_14, 2_15, 2_16, 2_17, and 2_18 exist at time A1.

[0398] Then, the AP 1901 transmits the RTSs 2_11, 2_12, 2_13, 2_14, 2_15, 2_16, 2_17, and 2_18 using the second frequency band 500_2. Note that the RTSs 2_11, 2_12, 2_13, 2_14, 2_15, 2_16, 2_17, and 2_18 each exist within an interval of, for example, a 20 MHz band. The RTS 2_11 is assumed to be present on the first channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the RTS 2_12 is assumed to be present on the second channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the RTS 2_13 is assumed to be present on the third channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the RTS 2_14 is assumed to be present on the fourth channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the RTS 2_15 is assumed to be present on the fifth channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the RTS 2_16 is assumed to be present on the sixth channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the RTS 2_17 is assumed to be present on the seventh channel of the second frequency band 500_2, and the RTS 2_18 is assumed to be present on the eighth channel of the second frequency band 500_2. Although only channels 1 to 8 are shown in the second frequency band 500_2, other channels may exist, and AP1901 may transmit RTS using channels other than channels 1 to 8.

[0399] As described in the first embodiment, the RTS includes at least information about the address of the communication partner. The RTS transmitted by the AP 1901 using the second frequency band can include information about the addresses of one or more communication partners (i.e., one or more terminals).

[0400] In FIG. 29A, it is assumed that the RTSs 2_11, 2_12, 2_13, 2_14, 2_15, 2_16, 2_17, and 2_18 each contain address information of the terminal 1902_1 and address information of the terminal 1902_2.

[0401] The terminal 1902_1 receives the RTS of FIG. 29A transmitted by the AP 1901. Then, based on the reception of the RTS, the terminal 1902_1 is assumed to be in a "terminal ready to receive" state on "channels 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 of the second frequency band." FIG. 29B shows an example in which the terminal 1902_1 transmits a CTS to the AP 1901. In FIG. 29B, the horizontal axis represents frequency and the vertical axis represents time. As shown in FIG. 29B, the CTSs of 2_21_1, 2_22_1, 2_23_1, 2_24_1, 2_25_1, 2_26_1, 2_27_1, and 2_28_1 are present at time A2_1.

[0402] The terminal 1902_1 transmits CTSs of 2_21_1, 2_22_1, 2_23_1, 2_24_1, 2_25_1, 2_26_1, 2_27_1, and 2_28_1 using the second frequency band 500_2. Note that each of the CTSs of 2_21_1, 2_22_1, 2_23_1, 2_24_1, 2_25_1, 2_26_1, 2_27_1, and 2_28_1 exists within an interval of, for example, a 20 MHz band. The CTS of 2_21_1 is assumed to be located on the first channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the CTS of 2_22_1 is assumed to be located on the second channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the CTS of 2_23_1 is assumed to be located on the third channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the CTS of 2_24_1 is assumed to be located on the fourth channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the CTS of 2_25_1 is assumed to be located on the fifth channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the CTS of 2_26_1 is assumed to be located on the sixth channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the CTS of 2_27_1 is assumed to be located on the seventh channel of the second frequency band 500_2, and the CTS of 2_28_1 is assumed to be located on the eighth channel of the second frequency band 500_2. Although only the first to eighth channels are shown in the second frequency band 500_2, other channels may also exist.

[0403] The terminal 1902_2 receives the RTS of FIG. 29A transmitted by the AP 1901. Then, based on the reception of the RTS, the terminal 1902_2 is assumed to be in a "terminal ready to receive" state on the "first, second, third, and fourth channels of the second frequency band." FIG. 29C shows an example in which the terminal 1902_2 transmits a CTS to the AP 1901. In FIG. 29C, the horizontal axis represents frequency and the vertical axis represents time. As shown in FIG. 29C, the CTSs of 2_21_2, 2_22_2, 2_23_2, and 2_24_2 exist at the A2_2 time.

[0404] The terminal 1902_2 transmits CTSs for 2_21_2, 2_22_2, 2_23_2, and 2_24_2 using the second frequency band 500_2. Note that the CTSs for 2_21_2, 2_22_2, 2_23_2, and 2_24_2 each exist within, for example, a 20 MHz band interval. The CTS for 2_21_2 exists in the first channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the CTS for 2_22_2 exists in the second channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the CTS for 2_23_2 exists in the third channel of the second frequency band 500_2, and the CTS for 2_24_2 exists in the fourth channel of the second frequency band 500_2. Note that although only the first to eighth channels are shown in the second frequency band 500_2, other channels may exist.

[0405] The AP 1901 receives the CTS of FIG. 29B transmitted by the terminal 1902_1 and the CTS of FIG. 29C transmitted by the terminal 1902_2. Then, based on the reception of these CTSs, the AP 1901 determines that "the symbol groups including data symbols are to be transmitted on the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, and eighth channels of the second frequency band 500_2." FIG. 29D shows an example in which the AP 1901 transmits symbol groups including data symbols to the terminals 1902_1 and 1902_2. In FIG. 29D, the horizontal axis represents frequency and the vertical axis represents time. As shown in FIG. 28C, the symbol groups 2_31, 2_32, 2_33, 2_34, 2_35, 2_36, 2_37, and 2_38 exist at the A3 time.

[0406] The AP 1901 transmits a group of symbols 2_31, 2_32, 2_33, 2_34, 2_35, 2_36, 2_37, and 2_38 using the second frequency band 500_2. Each of the group of symbols 2_31, 2_32, 2_33, 2_34, 2_35, 2_36, 2_37, and 2_38 exists within an interval of, for example, a 20 MHz band. The symbol group 2_31 is assumed to exist in the first channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the symbol group 2_32 is assumed to exist in the second channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the symbol group 2_33 is assumed to exist in the third channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the symbol group 2_34 is assumed to exist in the fourth channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the symbol group 2_35 is assumed to exist in the fifth channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the symbol group 2_36 is assumed to exist in the sixth channel of the second frequency band 500_2, the symbol group 2_37 is assumed to exist in the seventh channel of the second frequency band 500_2, and the symbol group 2_38 is assumed to exist in the eighth channel of the second frequency band 500_2. Note that although only the first to eighth channels are shown in the second frequency band 500_2, other channels may also exist.

[0407] It is assumed that the symbol group consisting of the symbol groups 2_31, 2_32, 2_33, 2_34, 2_35, 2_36, 2_37, and 2_38 includes data symbols addressed to the terminal 1902_1 and data symbols addressed to the terminal 1902_2. For example, as shown in FIG. 6B, the data symbols addressed to the terminal 1902_1 and the data symbols addressed to the terminal 1902_2 are frequency-divided, and the AP 1901 transmits the symbol group. Note that the data symbols addressed to the terminal 1902_1 and the data symbols addressed to the terminal 1902_2 may be time-divided, or two regions are prepared that configure the symbol groups 2_31, 2_32, 2_33, 2_34, 2_35, 2_36, 2_37, and 2_38 in time and frequency, and one region is configured to include data symbols addressed to the terminal 1902_1, and the other region is configured to include data symbols addressed to the terminal 1902_2, which can be similarly implemented.

[0408] A feature of the above example is that "when the AP simultaneously transmits symbols addressed to a plurality of (two or more) terminals, the AP transmits modulated signals using any one of the first frequency band 500_1, the second frequency band 500_2, and the third frequency band 500_3." Note that a detailed description is also given in the second embodiment.

[0409] In addition, when the AP 1901 transmits a modulated signal using the first frequency band 500_1 as a symbol group including a data symbol addressed to the terminal 1902_1 and a data symbol addressed to the terminal 1902_2, the AP 1901 transmits an RTS using the first frequency band 500_1, and the terminals 1902_1 and 1902_2 transmit a CTS using the first frequency band 500_1. That is, in Figures 29A, 29B, 29C, and 29D, the second frequency band 500_2 can be considered as the first frequency band and similar implementation can be performed.

[0410] Similarly, when the AP 1901 transmits a modulated signal using a symbol group including a data symbol addressed to the terminal 1902_1 and a data symbol addressed to the terminal 1902_2 in the third frequency band 500_3, the AP 1901 transmits an RTS using the third frequency band 500_3, and the terminals 1902_1 and 1902_2 transmit a CTS using the third frequency band 500_3. That is, in Figures 29A, 29B, 29C, and 29D, the third frequency band 500_3 can be considered as the first frequency band and similar implementation can be performed.

[0411] By implementing the above, it is possible to obtain the effects described in the second embodiment. In the example of Fig. 29, the case where the AP 1901 is communicating with the terminals 1902_1 and 1902_2 has been described, but the same implementation is possible even when the AP 1901 is communicating with three or more terminals as long as the above-mentioned features are satisfied. Then, each terminal transmits a CTS to the AP as shown in Fig. 29B and Fig. 29C.

[0412] Next, a case will be described in which, in a state in which the AP 1901 and terminals are communicating with each other as in FIG. 19B, the terminal 3001_1 starts communication with the AP 1901 as in FIG.

[0413] Fig. 31A shows an example in which AP 1901 transmits an RTS to terminal 3001_1. In Fig. 31A, the horizontal axis represents frequency and the vertical axis represents time. As shown in Fig. 31A, the RTSs of B1_11 and B_12 and the RTSs of B3_11 and B3_12 exist at the B1 time.

[0414] Then, AP1901 transmits the RTSs of B1_11 and B1_12 using the first frequency band 500_1. Note that the RTSs of B1_11 and B1_12 each exist within an interval of, for example, a 20 MHz band. The RTS of B1_11 exists in the first channel of the first frequency band 500_1, and the RTS of B1_12 exists in the second channel of the first frequency band 500_1. Note that although only the first channel and the second channel are described in the first frequency band 500_1, other channels may exist, and AP1901 may transmit the RTS using a channel other than the first channel and the second channel.

[0415] Furthermore, AP1901 transmits the RTSs of B3_11 and B3_12 using the third frequency band 500_3. Note that the RTSs of B3_11 and B3_12 are each present within an interval of, for example, an 80 MHz band. The RTS of B3_11 is assumed to be present on the first channel of the third frequency band 500_3, and the RTS of B3_12 is assumed to be present on the second channel of the third frequency band 500_3. Note that, although only the first to fourth channels are described in the third frequency band 500_3, other channels may exist, and AP1901 may transmit the RTS using a channel other than the first to fourth channels.

[0416] As described in the first embodiment, the RTS includes at least information on the address of a communication partner. The RTS transmitted by the AP 1901 using the first frequency band can include information on the address of one or more communication partners (i.e., one or more terminals). Similarly, the RTS transmitted by the AP 1901 using the third frequency band can include information on the address of one or more communication partners (i.e., one or more terminals).

[0417] As shown in FIG. 31A, when AP 1901 transmits an RTS, each of the RTSs of B1_11 and B1_12 and B3_11 and B3_12 includes address information of one terminal (3001_1).

[0418] As shown in FIG. 31A, in the second frequency band 500_2, the AP 1901 is in communication with, for example, terminals 1902_1 and 1902_2, such as 2_11, 2_12, 2_13, 2_14, 2_15, 2_16, 2_17, and 2_18. However, 2_11 is the first channel of the second frequency band 500_2, 2_12 is the second channel of the second frequency band 500_2, 2_13 is the third channel of the second frequency band 500_2, 2_14 is the fourth channel of the second frequency band 500_2, 2_15 is the fifth channel of the second frequency band 500_2, 2_16 is the sixth channel of the second frequency band 500_2, 2_17 is the seventh channel of the second frequency band 500_2, and 2_18 is the eighth channel of the second frequency band 500_2.

[0419] The terminal 3001_1 receives the RTS of FIG. 31A transmitted by the AP 1901. Then, based on the reception of the RTS, the terminal 3001_1 is assumed to be in a "terminal ready to receive" state in "the first and second channels of the first frequency band 500_1" and "the first and second channels of the third frequency band 500_3." In FIG. 31B, the horizontal axis represents frequency and the vertical axis represents time. As shown in FIG. 31B, the CTSs of B1_21 and B1_22 and the CTSs of B3_21 and B3_22 are present at the B2 time.

[0420] The terminal 3001_1 transmits the CTSs of B1_21 and B1_22 using the first frequency band 500_1. The CTSs of B1_21 and B1_22 are each present within an interval of, for example, a 20 MHz band. The CTS of B1_21 is assumed to be present in the first channel of the first frequency band 500_1, and the CTS of B1_22 is assumed to be present in the second channel of the first frequency band 500_1. Although only the first channel and the second channel are shown in the first frequency band 500_1, other channels may also be present.

[0421] The terminal 3001_1 transmits the CTSs of B3_21 and B3_22 using the third frequency band 500_3. The CTSs of B3_21 and B3_22 are each present within an interval of, for example, an 80 MHz band. The CTS of B3_21 is assumed to be present on the first channel of the third frequency band 500_3, and the CTS of B3_22 is assumed to be present on the third channel of the third frequency band 500_3. Although only the first to fourth channels are shown in the third frequency band 500_3, other channels may also be present.

[0422] As shown in FIG. 31B, in the second frequency band 500_2, the AP 1901 is in communication with, for example, terminals 1902_1 and 1902_2, such as 2_11, 2_12, 2_13, 2_14, 2_15, 2_16, 2_17, and 2_18. However, 2_11 is the first channel of the second frequency band 500_2, 2_12 is the second channel of the second frequency band 500_2, 2_13 is the third channel of the second frequency band 500_2, 2_14 is the fourth channel of the second frequency band 500_2, 2_15 is the fifth channel of the second frequency band 500_2, 2_16 is the sixth channel of the second frequency band 500_2, 2_17 is the seventh channel of the second frequency band 500_2, and 2_18 is the eighth channel of the second frequency band 500_2.

[0423] The AP 1901 receives the CTS of FIG. 31B transmitted by the terminal 3001_1. Then, based on the reception of the CTS, the AP 1901 determines that "the symbol groups including data symbols are to be transmitted from the first channel and the second channel of the first frequency band 500_1" and the "first channel and the second channel of the third frequency band 500_3." FIG. 31C shows an example in which the AP 1901 transmits the symbol groups including data symbols to the terminal 3001_1. In FIG. 31C, the horizontal axis represents frequency and the vertical axis represents time. As shown in FIG. 31C, the symbol groups of B1_31 and B1_32 and the symbol groups of B3_31 and B3_32 exist in the B3 time.

[0424] The AP 1901 transmits the B1_31 and B1_32 symbol groups using the first frequency band 500_1. The B1_31 and B1_32 symbol groups each exist within an interval of, for example, a 20 MHz band. The B1_31 symbol group exists in the first channel of the first frequency band 500_1, and the B1_32 symbol group exists in the second channel of the first frequency band 500_1. Although only the first channel and the second channel are shown in the first frequency band 500_1, other channels may also exist.

[0425] As shown in FIG. 31C, in the second frequency band 500_2, the AP 1901 is in communication with, for example, terminals 1902_1 and 1902_2, such as 2_11, 2_12, 2_13, 2_14, 2_15, 2_16, 2_17, and 2_18. However, 2_11 is the first channel of the second frequency band 500_2, 2_12 is the second channel of the second frequency band 500_2, 2_13 is the third channel of the second frequency band 500_2, 2_14 is the fourth channel of the second frequency band 500_2, 2_15 is the fifth channel of the second frequency band 500_2, 2_16 is the sixth channel of the second frequency band 500_2, 2_17 is the seventh channel of the second frequency band 500_2, and 2_18 is the eighth channel of the second frequency band 500_2.

[0426] As described above, for example, the AP can transmit data symbols to a specific terminal using the first frequency band and the third frequency band, thereby achieving the effect of improving the data transmission speed to the specific terminal. In this case, the RTS in FIG. 31A is characterized in that it contains only the address of the specific terminal. Note that the method of configuring the channel used by the first frequency, the channel used by the second frequency, and the channel used by the third frequency are not limited to the above-mentioned examples. Therefore, configuration methods different from the examples in FIGS. 31A, 31B, and 31C can also be implemented in the same way. Furthermore, in this case, communication is performed with a terminal other than the above-mentioned terminal in the second frequency band 500_2, which is another frequency band, thereby achieving the effect of improving the data transmission efficiency in this communication system.

[0427] In the example of Fig. 31, the second frequency band 500_2 is described as being in a communication state, but the present invention is not limited to this example. For example, the first frequency band 500_1 may be in a communication state, and the AP may transmit data symbols to a specific terminal using the second frequency band 500_2 and the third frequency band 500_3. In this case, the RTS transmitted by the AP 1901 using the second frequency band 500_2 and the third frequency band 500_3 includes only the address of the specific terminal.

[0428] Alternatively, the third frequency band 500_3 may be in communication, and the AP may transmit data symbols to a specific terminal using the first frequency band 500_1 and the second frequency band 500_2. In this case, the RTS transmitted by the AP 1901 using the first frequency band 500_1 and the second frequency band 500_2 includes only the address of the specific terminal.

[0429] Next, a case will be described in which, in a state in which the AP 1901 and terminals are communicating with each other as shown in Fig. 19B, the terminals 3001_1 and 3001_2 start communication with the AP as shown in Fig. 32. However, although Fig. 32 shows the case in which two terminals start communication with the AP, two or more terminals may start communication with the AP.

[0430] Fig. 33A shows an example in which AP 1901 transmits RTS to terminal 3001_1 and terminal 3001_2. In Fig. 33A, the horizontal axis represents frequency and the vertical axis represents time. As shown in Fig. 33A, RTSs for B3_11 and B3_12 exist at B1 time.

[0431] Then, AP1901 transmits the RTSs of B3_11 and B3_12 using the third frequency band 500_3. Note that the RTSs of B3_11 and B3_12 each exist within an interval of, for example, an 80 MHz band. The RTS of B3_11 is assumed to exist on the first channel of the third frequency band 500_3, and the RTS of B3_12 is assumed to exist on the second channel of the third frequency band 500_3. Note that, although only the first to fourth channels are described in the third frequency band 500_3, other channels may exist, and AP1901 may transmit the RTS using a channel other than the first to fourth channels.

[0432] As described in the first embodiment, the RTS includes at least information about the address of the communication partner. The RTS transmitted by the AP 1901 using the third frequency band can include information about the addresses of one or more communication partners (i.e., one or more terminals).

[0433] As shown in FIG. 33A, when AP1901 transmits an RTS, each of the RTSs of B3_11 and B3_12 includes information on the addresses of a plurality of terminals (3001_1, 3001_2).

[0434] As shown in FIG. 33A, in the second frequency band 500_2, the AP 1901 is in communication with, for example, terminals 1902_1 and 1902_2, such as 2_11, 2_12, 2_13, 2_14, 2_15, 2_16, 2_17, and 2_18. However, 2_11 is the first channel of the second frequency band 500_2, 2_12 is the second channel of the second frequency band 500_2, 2_13 is the third channel of the second frequency band 500_2, 2_14 is the fourth channel of the second frequency band 500_2, 2_15 is the fifth channel of the second frequency band 500_2, 2_16 is the sixth channel of the second frequency band 500_2, 2_17 is the seventh channel of the second frequency band 500_2, and 2_18 is the eighth channel of the second frequency band 500_2.

[0435] The terminal 3001_1 receives the RTS of FIG. 33A transmitted by the AP 1901. Then, based on the reception of the RTS, the terminal 3001_1 is assumed to be in a "terminal ready to receive" state in the "first and second channels of the third frequency band 500_3." In FIG. 33B, the horizontal axis represents frequency and the vertical axis represents time. As shown in FIG. 33B, the CTSs of B3_21_1 and B3_22_1 are present at the B2_1 time.

[0436] Terminal 3001_1 transmits CTSs of B3_21_1 and B3_22_1 using the third frequency band 500_3. Note that the CTSs of B3_21_1 and B3_22_1 are each present within an interval of, for example, an 80 MHz band. The CTS of B3_21_1 is assumed to be present on the first channel of the third frequency band 500_3, and the CTS of B3_22_1 is assumed to be present on the second channel of the third frequency band 500_3. Note that although only the first to fourth channels are shown in the third frequency band 500_3, other channels may also be present.

[0437] As shown in FIG. 33B, in the second frequency band 500_2, the AP 1901 is in communication with, for example, terminals 1902_1 and 1902_2, such as 2_11, 2_12, 2_13, 2_14, 2_15, 2_16, 2_17, and 2_18. However, 2_11 is the first channel of the second frequency band 500_2, 2_12 is the second channel of the second frequency band 500_2, 2_13 is the third channel of the second frequency band 500_2, 2_14 is the fourth channel of the second frequency band 500_2, 2_15 is the fifth channel of the second frequency band 500_2, 2_16 is the sixth channel of the second frequency band 500_2, 2_17 is the seventh channel of the second frequency band 500_2, and 2_18 is the eighth channel of the second frequency band 500_2.

[0438] The terminal 3001_2 receives the RTS of FIG. 33A transmitted by the AP 1901. Then, based on the reception of the RTS, the terminal 3001_2 is assumed to be in a "terminal ready to receive" state in the "first and second channels of the third frequency band 500_3." In FIG. 33C, the horizontal axis represents frequency and the vertical axis represents time. As shown in FIG. 33C, the CTSs of B3_21_1 and B3_22_1 are present at the B2_1 time.

[0439] Terminal 3001_2 transmits CTSs of B3_21_2 and B3_22_2 using the third frequency band 500_3. Note that the CTSs of B3_21_2 and B3_22_2 are each present within an interval of, for example, an 80 MHz band. The CTS of B3_21_2 is assumed to be present on the first channel of the third frequency band 500_3, and the CTS of B3_22_2 is assumed to be present on the second channel of the third frequency band 500_3. Note that although only the first to fourth channels are shown in the third frequency band 500_3, other channels may also be present.

[0440] As shown in FIG. 33C, in the second frequency band 500_2, the AP 1901 is in communication with, for example, terminals 1902_1 and 1902_2, such as 2_11, 2_12, 2_13, 2_14, 2_15, 2_16, 2_17, and 2_18. However, 2_11 is the first channel of the second frequency band 500_2, 2_12 is the second channel of the second frequency band 500_2, 2_13 is the third channel of the second frequency band 500_2, 2_14 is the fourth channel of the second frequency band 500_2, 2_15 is the fifth channel of the second frequency band 500_2, 2_16 is the sixth channel of the second frequency band 500_2, 2_17 is the seventh channel of the second frequency band 500_2, and 2_18 is the eighth channel of the second frequency band 500_2.

[0441] The AP1901 receives the CTS of FIG. 33B transmitted by the terminal 3001_1 and the CTS of FIG. 33C transmitted by the terminal 3001_2. Then, based on the reception of the CTS, the AP1901 determines that "the symbol group including the data symbols will be transmitted from the first channel and the second channel of the third frequency band 500_3." FIG. 33D shows an example in which the AP1901 transmits symbol groups including the data symbols to the terminals 3001_1 and 3001_2. In FIG. 33D, the horizontal axis represents frequency and the vertical axis represents time. As shown in FIG. 33D, the symbol groups of B3_31 and B3_32 exist at the B3 time.

[0442] The AP 1901 transmits the B3_31 and B3_32 symbol groups using the third frequency band 500_3. The B3_31 and B3_32 symbol groups each exist within an interval of, for example, an 80 MHz band. The B3_31 symbol group exists in the first channel of the third frequency band 500_3, and the B3_32 symbol group exists in the second channel of the third frequency band 500_3. Note that although only the first to fourth channels are shown in the third frequency band 500_3, other channels may also exist.

[0443] As shown in FIG. 33D, in the second frequency band 500_2, the AP 1901 is in communication with, for example, terminals 1902_1 and 1902_2, such as 2_11, 2_12, 2_13, 2_14, 2_15, 2_16, 2_17, and 2_18. However, 2_11 is the first channel of the second frequency band 500_2, 2_12 is the second channel of the second frequency band 500_2, 2_13 is the third channel of the second frequency band 500_2, 2_14 is the fourth channel of the second frequency band 500_2, 2_15 is the fifth channel of the second frequency band 500_2, 2_16 is the sixth channel of the second frequency band 500_2, 2_17 is the seventh channel of the second frequency band 500_2, and 2_18 is the eighth channel of the second frequency band 500_2.

[0444] As described above, for example, if an AP is communicating with multiple terminals using the second frequency band 500_2, and during that communication, the AP starts communicating with multiple other terminals using the third frequency band 500_3, that is, using one frequency band, thereby achieving an effect of improving data transmission efficiency in the communication system. In this case, the RTS of Figure 33A is characterized in that it includes addresses of multiple terminals. Note that the configuration methods for the channels used by the first frequency, the second frequency, and the third frequency are not limited to the above examples. Therefore, configuration methods different from the examples of Figures 33A, 33B, 33C, and 33D can also be implemented in the same way.

[0445] In the example of Fig. 31, the second frequency band 500_2 is described as being in a communication state, but the present invention is not limited to this example. For example, the first frequency band 500_1 may be in a communication state, and the AP may transmit data symbols to multiple terminals using the second frequency band 500_2. In this case, the RTS transmitted by the AP 1901 using the second frequency band 500_2 includes the addresses of multiple terminals.

[0446] Similarly, the first frequency band 500_1 may be in a communication state, and the AP may transmit data symbols to multiple terminals using the third frequency band 500_3. In this case, the RTS transmitted by the AP 1901 using the third frequency band 500_3 includes addresses of the multiple terminals.

[0447] Alternatively, the third frequency band 500_3 may be in communication, and the AP may transmit data symbols to multiple terminals using the first frequency band 500_1. In this case, the RTS transmitted by the AP 1901 using the first frequency band 500_1 includes addresses of multiple terminals.

[0448] Similarly, the third frequency band 500_3 may be in communication, and the AP may transmit data symbols to multiple terminals using the second frequency band 500_2. In this case, the RTS transmitted by the AP 1901 using the second frequency band 500_2 includes addresses of multiple terminals.

[0449] (Supplementary Note 3) In this specification, for example, when an AP transmits symbols addressed to multiple terminals in a frame in the time-frequency domain, the AP may perform frequency division as shown in Fig. 6B and transmit the symbols addressed to multiple terminals, or may perform time division as shown in Fig. 34 and transmit the symbols addressed to multiple terminals, or may prepare two or more regions configured by time and frequency as shown in Fig. 35 and transmit the symbols addressed to multiple terminals. In Fig. 34, the horizontal axis represents time and the vertical axis represents frequency. In Fig. 35, the horizontal axis represents frequency and the vertical axis represents time.

[0450] In this specification, the parts and operations described with respect to an AP may also be parts and operations of a base station, a repeater, a terminal, a communication device, a personal computer, a mobile phone, etc. Furthermore, in this specification, the parts and operations described with respect to a terminal may also be parts and operations of an AP, a base station, a repeater, a communication device, a personal computer, a mobile phone, etc.

[0451] (Fourth embodiment) In this embodiment, a communication method related to the first to third embodiments will be described.

[0452] In this embodiment, "multi-band" communication and "multi-channel" communication will be described. Here, "multi-band" communication and "multi-channel" communication are defined as follows.

[0453] "Multi-band" communication: A first communication device (e.g., a terminal) may simultaneously receive multiple modulated signals transmitted by one or more communication devices (e.g., an access point (AP) or a base station) that are its communication partners. Among these multiple modulated signals, there are modulated signals in multiple frequency bands (e.g., the 5 GHz band and the 6 GHz band).

[0454] The first communication device may communicate with one or more communication devices as communication partners simultaneously using multiple frequency bands. Examples are described in the first to third embodiments.

[0455] "Multi-channel" communication: A first communication device (e.g., a terminal) may simultaneously receive multiple modulated signals transmitted by one or more communication devices (e.g., an access point (AP) or a base station) that are its communication partners. Among these multiple modulated signals, there are modulated signals of multiple channels in a first frequency band (e.g., a first channel and a second channel in the 5 GHz band).

[0456] The first communication device may simultaneously communicate with one or more communication devices as communication partners using multiple channels in the first frequency band, as described in the first to third embodiments.

[0457] In this specification, "multiband" and "multichannel" are described separately, but "multiband" and "multichannel" may be collectively referred to as "multichannel."

[0458] In this embodiment, a wireless LAN communication system based on the IEEE 802.11 standard will be described as an example.

[0459] First, a MAC (Medium Access Control) frame in a wireless LAN will be described.

[0460] The MAC frame contains Management Framework Control Frame Data Frame There are three types:

[0461] First, the management frame will be explained. An example of the management frame is as follows:

[0462] Beacon Frame: Frame for notifying network information to nearby wireless devices Probe request frame: A frame for a terminal to inquire about the presence of nearby wireless cells Probe response frame: Response frame to a probe request Association request frame: A frame used by a terminal to request a connection to a base station Association response frame: Response frame to association request Disassociation Frame: Frame for disconnecting communication Authentication frame: Frame for authentication between wireless devices De-authentication frame: Frame for disconnecting (terminating authentication) Action Frame: Additional features for general use frames

[0463] An example of a control frame is as follows:

[0464] RTS (Request to Send) frame: A frame for requesting data transmission CTS (Clear to Send) frame: A frame for the radio device specified in the RTS to send "clear to send" ACK (Acknowledgement) frame: A frame to confirm and respond to normal data reception Block ACK request frame: Frame to request Block ACK Block ACK frame: A frame used to confirm and respond to the normal reception of multiple MAC frame data

[0465] A data frame is a frame that transmits user data.

[0466] An example of the structure of an IEEE 802.11 data frame is shown in Figure 36. The numbers in Figure 36 indicate the data length of the field below, and are expressed in bytes.

[0467] The data frame contains, for example: 2-byte frame control field 2-byte duration ID (ID: Identifier) ​​(field) 6-byte (receiver) address 1 (field) 6-byte (sender) address 2 (field) 6-byte (filtering) address 3 (field) 2-byte sequence control (field) 6-byte (optional) address field Frame body 4-byte FCS (Frame Check Sequence) (field)

[0468] Table 1 shows the usage of the address field in a data frame.

[0469] [Table 1]

[0470] In Table 1, IBSS is Independent Basic Service Set, AP is Access Point, WDS is Wireless Distribution System, DS is Distribution System, BSSID is Basic Service Set ID (ID: identifier), DA is Destination Address, SA is Source Address, RA is Receiver Address, and TA is Transmitter Address.

[0471] Next, we will explain BSSID and SSID (Service Set ID).

[0472] BSSID: In infrastructure networks, the BSSID is the MAC address of the wireless interface of the access point. In ad-hoc networks, the BSSID is randomly generated and the Universal / Local bit is set to 1.

[0473] SSID: Larger identifiers (0 to 32 bytes) than the usual 48-bit identifiers

[0474] Next, an example of the configuration of a management frame will be described.

[0475] An example of the configuration of an IEEE 802.11 beacon frame is shown in Figure 37. The numbers in Figure 37 indicate the data length of the fields listed below, in units of bytes.

[0476] The beacon frame contains, for example: 2-byte frame control field 2-byte duration (field) 6-byte DA (Destination Address) (field) 6-byte SA (Source Address) (field) 6-byte BSSID (field) 2-byte sequence control (field)

[0477] This is the MAC header. It also contains the following: Variable length frame body (field) 4-byte FCS (Frame Check Sequence) (field) 8-byte timestamp (field) 2-byte beacon interval (field) 2-byte capability information (field) Variable length SSID (field) 7-byte FH (Frequency Hopping) parameter set (field) 2-byte DS (Direct Sequence) parameter set (field) 8-byte CF (Contention Free) parameter set (field) 4-byte IBSS parameter set (field) Variable-length TIM (Traffic Indication Map) (field) Variable length country (field) 3-byte power limit field 6-byte channel switching (field) 8-byte quiet field 4-byte TPC (Transmit Power Control) report field Variable length ERP (Effective Radiated Power) (field) - Supports variable length extension rates (fields) Variable-length RSN (Robust Security Network) (field)

[0478] Generally, in a beacon frame sent by an AP, "BSSID" is the BSSID of the AP, and "SSID" is the SSID of the AP. Also, "DA" is composed of all 1s (for broadcasting), and "SA" and "BSSID" are the MAC address of the AP.

[0479] An example of the structure of an IEEE 802.11 Probe request frame is shown in Figure 38. The numbers in Figure 38 indicate the data length of the field below, in bytes.

[0480] The Probe request frame contains, for example: 2-byte frame control field 2-byte duration (field) 6-byte DA (Destination Address) (field) 6-byte SA (Source Address) (field) 6-byte BSSID (field) 2-byte sequence control (field)

[0481] This is the MAC header. It also contains the following: Variable length SSID (field) Supports variable length fields

[0482] The above is the frame itself, which also includes the following: 4-byte FCS (field)

[0483] Generally, in a Probe request frame sent by a terminal, "DA" is the MAC address of the AP, and "SA" and "BSSID" are the MAC addresses of the terminal. Generally, "SSID" is the SSID of the AP.

[0484] An example of the structure of an IEEE 802.11 Probe response frame is shown in Figure 39. The numbers in Figure 39 indicate the data length of the fields listed below, in bytes.

[0485] The probe response frame contains, for example: 2-byte frame control field 2-byte duration (field) 6-byte DA (Destination Address) (field) 6-byte SA (Source Address) (field) 6-byte BSSID (field) 2-byte sequence control (field)

[0486] This is the MAC header. It also contains the following: Variable length body (field) 4-byte FCS (Frame Check Sequence) (field) 8-byte timestamp (field) 2-byte beacon interval (field) 2-byte capability information (field) Variable length SSID (field) 7-byte FH (Frequency Hopping) parameter set (field) 2-byte DS (Direct Sequence) parameter set (field) 8-byte CF (Contention Free) parameter set (field) 4-byte IBSS parameter set (field) Variable length country (field) 4-byte FH hopping parameter (field) FH pattern table (field) 3-byte power limit field 6-byte variable length channel switch (field) 8-byte quiet field 4-byte TPC (Transmit Power Control) report field Variable length ERP (Effective Radiated Power) (field) - Supports variable length extension rates (fields) Variable-length RSN (Robust Security Network) (field)

[0487] Generally, in a probe response frame sent by an AP, "DA" is the MAC address of the terminal, "SA" and "BSSID" are the MAC addresses of the AP, and "SSID" is the SSID of the AP.

[0488] An example of the structure of an IEEE 802.11 Association Request frame is shown in Figure 40. The numbers in Figure 40 indicate the data length of the fields listed below, in units of bytes.

[0489] The Association request frame contains, for example: 2-byte frame control field 2-byte duration (field) 6-byte DA (Destination Address) (field) 6-byte SA (Source Address) (field) 6-byte BSSID (field) 2-byte sequence control (field)

[0490] This is the MAC header. It also contains the following: 2-byte capability information (field) 2-byte listen interval (field) Variable length SSID (field) Supports variable length fields

[0491] The above is the frame itself, which also includes the following: 4-byte FCS (field)

[0492] Generally, in the association request frame sent by the terminal, "DA" is the MAC address of the AP, "SA" and "BSSID" are the MAC addresses of the terminal, and "SSID" is generally the SSID of the AP.

[0493] An example of the structure of an IEEE 802.11 Association response frame is shown in Figure 41. The numbers in Figure 41 indicate the data length of the fields listed below, in units of bytes.

[0494] The Association response frame contains, for example: 2-byte frame control field 2-byte duration (field) 6-byte DA (Destination Address) (field) 6-byte SA (Source Address) (field) 6-byte BSSID (field) 2-byte sequence control (field)

[0495] This is the MAC header. It also contains the following: 2-byte capability information (field) 2-byte status code (field) 2-byte association identifier (field) Supports variable length fields

[0496] The above is the frame itself, which also includes the following: 4-byte FCS (field)

[0497] Generally, in an association response frame sent by an AP, "DA" is the MAC address of the terminal, and "SA" and "BSSID" are the MAC addresses of the AP.

[0498] Next, an example of beacon frame transmission will be explained, taking into consideration the system state shown in FIG.

[0499] 42, AP #1 of 4201_1 is capable of transmitting a modulated signal in the 2.4 GHz band, a modulated signal in the 5 GHz band, and a modulated signal in the 6 GHz band. AP #2 of 4201_2 is capable of transmitting a modulated signal in the 2.4 GHz band. AP #3 of 4201_3 is capable of transmitting a modulated signal in the 2.4 GHz band and a modulated signal in the 5 GHz band.

[0500] An AP capable of transmitting modulated signals in two or more frequency bands, for example, AP#1 of 4201_1, uses the first MAC address as the MAC address no matter which frequency band the modulated signal is transmitted in. Also, AP#3 of 4201_3 uses the third MAC address as the MAC address no matter which frequency band the modulated signal is transmitted in. Naturally, the first MAC address and the second MAC address are different, the first MAC address and the third MAC address are different, and the second MAC address and the third MAC address are different.

[0501] AP#1 of 4201_1 uses SSID 1_1 for the 2.4 GHz band, SSID 1_2 for the 5 GHz band, and SSID 1_3 for the 6 GHz band. Naturally, SSID 1_1 and SSID 1_2 are different, SSID 1_1 and SSID 1_3 are different, and SSID 1_2 and SSID 1_3 are different.

[0502] AP#2 of 4201_2 uses SSID 2_1 for the 2.4 GHz band.

[0503] AP#3 of 4201_3 uses SSID 3_1 for the 2.4 GHz band and SSID 3_2 for the 5 GHz band. Naturally, SSID 3_1 and SSID 3_2 are different.

[0504] AP#1 of 4201_1 transmits a beacon frame in the 2.4 GHz band. The SA (field) and BSSID (field) of this 2.4 GHz band beacon frame are the first MAC address. The SSID (field) of this 2.4 GHz band beacon frame is the first SSID.

[0505] Then, AP#1 of 4201_1 transmits a beacon frame in the 5 GHz band. The SA (field) and BSSID (field) of this 5 GHz band beacon frame are the first MAC address. The SSID (field) of this 5 GHz band beacon frame is the first_2 SSID.

[0506] AP#1 of 4201_1 transmits a beacon frame in the 6 GHz band. The SA (field) and BSSID (field) of this 6 GHz band beacon frame are the first MAC address. The SSID (field) of this 6 GHz band beacon frame is the first SSID.

[0507] AP#2 of 4201_2 transmits a beacon frame in the 2.4 GHz band. The SA (field) and BSSID (field) of this 2.4 GHz band beacon frame are the second MAC address. The SSID (field) of this 2.4 GHz band beacon frame is the SSID of 2_1.

[0508] AP#3 of 4201_3 transmits a beacon frame in the 2.4 GHz band. The SA (field) and BSSID (field) of this 2.4 GHz band beacon frame are the third MAC address. The SSID (field) of this 2.4 GHz band beacon frame is the third SSID.

[0509] Then, AP#3 of 4201_3 transmits a beacon frame in the 5 GHz band. The SA (field) and BSSID (field) of this 5 GHz band beacon frame are the third MAC address. The SSID (field) of this 5 GHz band beacon frame is the third SSID.

[0510] For example, AP#1 of 4201_1 is capable of multi-band transmission or reception using modulated signals in the 2.4 GHz band and modulated signals in the 5 GHz band, is capable of multi-band transmission or reception using modulated signals in the 2.4 GHz band and modulated signals in the 6 GHz band, and is also capable of multi-band transmission or reception using modulated signals in the 5 GHz band and modulated signals in the 6 GHz band.

[0511] Terminal #1 of 4202_1, terminal #2 of 4202_2, and terminal #3 of 4202_3 are assumed to receive one or more beacon frames from among the "2.4 GHz band beacon frame, 5 GHz band beacon frame, and 6 GHz band beacon frame" transmitted by AP #1 of 4201_1, the "2.4 GHz band beacon frame" transmitted by AP #2 of 4201_2, and the "2.4 GHz band beacon frame and 5 GHz band beacon frame" transmitted by AP #3 of 4201_3.

[0512] For example, it is assumed that terminal #1 of 4202_1 receives "a beacon frame of 2.4 GHz band, a beacon frame of 5 GHz band, and a beacon frame of 6 GHz band" transmitted by AP #1 of 4201_1. An example of the operation of terminal #1 of 4202_1 at this time will be described with reference to FIG.

[0513] Fig. 43 shows an example of the configuration of terminals including terminal #1 of 4202_1. In Fig. 43, the same numbers are used for components that operate in the same way as in Fig. 1, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0514] In Fig. 43, the transmitting / receiving device 102_1 is a device that performs processing for transmitting and receiving modulated signals in a first frequency band, here 2.4 GHz band. The transmitting / receiving device 102_2 is a device that performs processing for transmitting and receiving modulated signals in a second frequency band, here 5 GHz band. The transmitting / receiving device 102_3 is a device that performs processing for transmitting and receiving modulated signals in a third frequency band, here 6 GHz band.

[0515] The transmitting / receiving device 102_1 performs processing for receiving a modulated signal in the 2.4 GHz band. Therefore, in the case of Fig. 42, the transmitting / receiving device 102_1 receives the beacon frame transmitted by the AP #1 of 4201_1, the beacon frame transmitted by the AP #2 of 2401_2, and the beacon frame transmitted by the AP #3 of 4201_3, and obtains data from each beacon frame.

[0516] Similarly, the transceiver 102_2 performs processing for receiving a modulated signal in the 5 GHz band. Therefore, in the case of Fig. 42, the transceiver 102_2 receives the beacon frame transmitted by the AP #1 of 4201_1 and the beacon frame transmitted by the AP #3 of 4201_3, and obtains data from each beacon frame.

[0517] The transmitting / receiving device 102_3 performs processing for receiving a modulated signal in the 6 GHz band. Therefore, in the case of Fig. 42, the transmitting / receiving device 102_3 receives the beacon frame transmitted by the AP#1 of 4201_1 and obtains data from this beacon frame.

[0518] The received data processing unit 108 receives the first data group 106_1, the second data group 106_2, and the third data group 106_3 as input, thereby obtaining beacon frame data for each frequency band. Note that the received data processing unit 108 also obtains other data.

[0519] The control unit 111 receives the received data group 100 and obtains the data of each beacon frame. The control unit 111 then outputs the obtained beacon frame data as the beacon frame information signal 4301.

[0520] The received data processing unit 108 receives the first data group 106_1, the second data group 106_2, and the third data group 106_3 as input, thereby obtaining beacon frame data for each frequency band. Note that the received data processing unit 108 also obtains other data.

[0521] The control unit 111 receives the received data group 100 and obtains the data of each beacon frame. The control unit 111 then outputs the obtained beacon frame data as the beacon frame information signal 4301.

[0522] The setting unit 4303 receives a setting signal 4302. The setting signal 4302 includes information on the SSID of the AP to which the terminal in Fig. 43 (terminal #1 of 4202_1 in this example) connects. For example, the setting signal 4302 includes information on SSID 1_1, SSID 1_2, and SSID 1_3, and the setting unit 4303 performs the following processing based on the information on SSID 1_1, SSID 1_2, and SSID 1_3.

[0523] The setting unit 4303 obtains the "SA (field) or BSSID (field) of the beacon frame including the SSID 1_1," the "SA (field) or BSSID (field) of the beacon frame including the SSID 1_2," and the "SA (field) or BSSID (field) of the beacon frame including the SSID 1_3." In other words, the setting unit 4303 obtains the "MAC address of the AP corresponding to the SSID 1_1," the "MAC address of the AP corresponding to the SSID 1_2," and the "MAC address of the AP corresponding to the SSID 1_3."

[0524] Then, if the "SA (field) or BSSID (field) of the beacon frame including the SSID 1_1" and the "SA (field) or BSSID (field) of the beacon frame including the SSID 1_2" are the same, the setting unit 4303 determines that "multiband communication is possible between the AP corresponding to the SSID 1_1 and the AP corresponding to the SSID 1_2." Note that the "AP corresponding to the SSID 1_1 and the AP corresponding to the SSID 1_2" may be determined to be a single device. Furthermore, if the "SA (field) or BSSID (field) of the beacon frame including the SSID 1_1" and the "SA (field) or BSSID (field) of the beacon frame including the SSID 1_2" are different, the setting unit 4303 determines that "multiband communication is not possible between the AP corresponding to the SSID 1_1 and the AP corresponding to the SSID 1_2."

[0525] Furthermore, if the "SA (field) or BSSID (field) of a beacon frame including the SSID 1_1" and the "SA (field) or BSSID (field) of a beacon frame including the SSID 1_3" are the same, the setting unit 4303 determines that "multiband communication is possible between the AP corresponding to the SSID 1_1 and the AP corresponding to the SSID 1_3." Note that the "AP corresponding to the SSID 1_1 and the AP corresponding to the SSID 1_3" may be determined to be a single device. Furthermore, if the "SA (field) or BSSID (field) of a beacon frame including the SSID 1_1" and the "SA (field) or BSSID (field) of a beacon frame including the SSID 1_3" are different, the setting unit 4303 determines that "multiband communication is not possible between the AP corresponding to the SSID 1_1 and the AP corresponding to the SSID 1_3."

[0526] If the "SA (field) or BSSID (field) of a beacon frame including the SSID 1_2" and the "SA (field) or BSSID (field) of a beacon frame including the SSID 1_3" are the same, the setting unit 4303 determines that "multiband communication is possible between the AP corresponding to the SSID 1_2 and the AP corresponding to the SSID 1_3." Note that the "AP corresponding to the SSID 1_2 and the AP corresponding to the SSID 1_3" may be determined to be a single device. Furthermore, if the "SA (field) or BSSID (field) of a beacon frame including the SSID 1_2" and the "SA (field) or BSSID (field) of a beacon frame including the SSID 1_3" are different, the setting unit 4303 determines that "multiband communication is not possible between the AP corresponding to the SSID 1_2 and the AP corresponding to the SSID 1_3."

[0527] Then, the setting unit 4303 outputs a signal 4304 of information relating to the availability of multiband communication to the control unit 111. Based on the signal 4304 of information relating to the availability of multiband communication, the control unit 111 outputs a control signal 112 including information on whether "the transmitting / receiving devices 102_1, 102_2, and 102_3 will perform transmission processing or reception processing for multiband communication." Based on the control signal 112, the transmitting / receiving devices 102_1, 102_2, and 102_3 will determine whether to perform transmission operation for multiband communication or reception operation for multiband communication.

[0528] Also, a terminal having the configuration of Fig. 43 is assumed to transmit, for example, an association request frame of Fig. 44. Note that the association request frame of Fig. 44 is assumed to include a "multiband transmission capability information (field)" and a "multiband reception capability information (field)" in addition to the "frame control (field)," "duration (field)," "DA (destination address) (field)," "SA (source address) (field)," "BSSID (field)," "sequence control (field)," "capability information (field)," "listen interval (field)," "SSID (field)," "supported rates (field)," and "FCS (field)" shown in Fig. 40.

[0529] For example, the "multiband transmission capability information (field)" in FIG. 44 contains information on whether a terminal having the configuration in FIG. 43 is capable of transmitting multiband modulated signals.

[0530] For example, the "multiband reception capability information (field)" in Figure 44 contains information on whether a terminal having the configuration shown in Figure 43 can or cannot receive a multiband modulated signal transmitted by the other party.

[0531] At this time, terminal #1 of 4202_1, which has the configuration of Figure 43 that is capable of multi-band communication, transmits an association request frame in the 2.4 GHz band (modulated signal in the 2.4 GHz band), an association request frame in the 5 GHz band (modulated signal in the 5 GHz band), and an association frame in the 6 GHz band (modulated signal in the 6 GHz band) to AP #1 of 4201_1.

[0532] For example, if terminal #1 of 4202_1 is capable of "multi-band transmission" using the 2.4 GHz band and other frequency bands (here, the 5 GHz band or the 6 GHz band), the "multi-band transmission capability information (field)" of the 2.4 GHz band association request frame will contain information indicating that "transmission of multi-band modulated signals is possible."

[0533] Furthermore, if terminal #1 of 4202_1 is capable of "multi-band transmission" using the 5 GHz band and other frequency bands (here, the 2.4 GHz band or the 6 GHz band), the "multi-band transmission capability information (field)" of the 5 GHz band association request frame will contain information indicating that "transmission of multi-band modulated signals is possible."

[0534] If terminal #1 of 4202_1 is capable of "multi-band transmission" using other frequency bands in the 6 GHz band (here, the 2.4 GHz band or the 5 GHz band), the "multi-band transmission capability information (field)" of the 6 GHz band association request frame will contain information indicating that "transmission of multi-band modulated signals is possible."

[0535] On the other hand, if there is a multi-band transmission that the terminal does not support, the following processing will be performed.

[0536] If a terminal is not capable of "multi-band transmission" using the 2.4 GHz band and other frequency bands (here, the 5 GHz band or the 6 GHz band), the "multi-band transmission capability information (field)" of the 2.4 GHz band association request frame will contain information indicating that "transmission of multi-band modulated signals is not possible."

[0537] If the terminal is not capable of "multi-band transmission" using other frequency bands in the 5 GHz band (here, the 2.4 GHz band or the 6 GHz band), the "multi-band transmission capability information (field)" in the 5 GHz band association request frame will contain information indicating that "transmission of multi-band modulated signals is not possible."

[0538] If the terminal is not capable of "multi-band transmission" using other frequency bands in the 6 GHz band (here, the 2.4 GHz band or the 5 GHz band), the "multi-band transmission capability information (field)" in the 6 GHz band association request frame will contain information indicating that "transmission of multi-band modulated signals is not possible."

[0539] Then, the terminal #1 of 4201_1 will make the following settings for the "multiband reception capability information (field)" in FIG.

[0540] For example, if terminal #1 of 4202_1 is capable of "multiband reception" in the 2.4 GHz band and other frequency bands (here, the 5 GHz band or the 6 GHz band), that is, capable of demodulating the multiband modulated signal transmitted by the communication partner, the "multiband reception capability information (field)" of the 2.4 GHz band association request frame will contain information indicating that "if the communication partner transmits a multiband modulated signal, it can be received, that is, it can be demodulated."

[0541] Furthermore, if terminal #1 of 4202_1 is capable of "multi-band reception" in the 5 GHz band and other frequency bands (here, the 2.4 GHz band or the 6 GHz band), that is, capable of demodulating the multi-band modulated signal transmitted by the communication partner, the "multi-band reception capability information (field)" of the 5 GHz band association request frame will contain information indicating that "if the communication partner transmits a multi-band modulated signal, it can be received, that is, it can be demodulated."

[0542] If terminal #1 of 4202_1 is capable of "multiband reception" using other frequency bands in the 6 GHz band (here, the 2.4 GHz band or the 5 GHz band), that is, capable of demodulating the multiband modulated signal transmitted by the communication partner, the "multiband reception capability information (field)" of the 6 GHz band association request frame will contain information indicating that "if the communication partner transmits a multiband modulated signal, it can be received, that is, it can be demodulated."

[0543] On the other hand, if there is multi-band reception that the terminal does not support, the following processing will be performed.

[0544] If the terminal is unable to perform "multi-band reception" using the 2.4 GHz band and other frequency bands (here, the 5 GHz band or the 6 GHz band), that is, unable to demodulate the multi-band modulated signal transmitted by the communication partner, the "multi-band reception capability information (field)" of the 2.4 GHz band association request frame will contain information indicating that "if the communication partner transmits a multi-band modulated signal, reception is not possible, i.e. demodulation is not possible."

[0545] If the terminal is unable to perform "multi-band reception" using the 5 GHz band and other frequency bands (here, the 2.4 GHz band or the 6 GHz band), that is, unable to demodulate the multi-band modulated signal transmitted by the communication partner, the "multi-band reception capability information (field)" of the 5 GHz band association request frame will contain information indicating that "if the communication partner transmits a multi-band modulated signal, reception is not possible, i.e. demodulation is not possible."

[0546] If the terminal is unable to perform "multi-band reception" using the 6 GHz band and other frequency bands (here, the 2.4 GHz band or the 5 GHz band), that is, unable to demodulate the multi-band modulated signal transmitted by the communication partner, the "multi-band reception capability information (field)" of the 6 GHz band association request frame will contain information indicating that "if the communication partner transmits a multi-band modulated signal, reception is not possible, i.e. demodulation is not possible."

[0547] Figure 45 shows a different structure of the association request frame transmitted by the terminal from that in Figure 44. Figure 45 differs from Figure 44 in that "multiband capability information" is present instead of "multiband transmission capability information" and "multiband reception capability information."

[0548] For example, the "multiband capability information (field)" in FIG. 45 contains information on whether a terminal having the configuration in FIG. 43 is capable of communication using multiband modulated signals.

[0549] For example, if terminal #1 of 4202_1 is capable of "multi-band communication" using the 2.4 GHz band and other frequency bands (here, the 5 GHz band or the 6 GHz band), the "multi-band capability information (field)" in Figure 45 of the association request frame for the 2.4 GHz band will contain information indicating that "communication of multi-band modulated signals is possible."

[0550] Furthermore, if terminal #1 of 4202_1 is capable of "multi-band communication" using the 5 GHz band and other frequency bands (here, the 2.4 GHz band or the 6 GHz band), the "multi-band capability information (field)" in Figure 45 of the 5 GHz band association request frame will contain information indicating that "communication of multi-band modulated signals is possible."

[0551] If terminal #1 of 4202_1 is capable of "multi-band communication" using other frequency bands in the 6 GHz band (here, the 2.4 GHz band or the 5 GHz band), the "multi-band capability information (field)" of the 6 GHz band association request frame will contain information indicating that "communication of multi-band modulated signals is possible."

[0552] On the other hand, if there is a multi-band transmission that the terminal does not support, the following processing will be performed.

[0553] If a terminal is not capable of "multi-band communication" using the 2.4 GHz band and other frequency bands (here, the 5 GHz band or the 6 GHz band), the "multi-band capability information (field)" of the 2.4 GHz band association request frame will contain information indicating that "communication of multi-band modulated signals is not possible."

[0554] If the terminal is unable to perform "multi-band communication" using other frequency bands in the 5 GHz band (here, the 2.4 GHz band or the 6 GHz band), the "multi-band capability information (field)" in the 5 GHz band association request frame will contain information indicating that "communication of multi-band modulated signals is not possible."

[0555] If the terminal is not capable of "multi-band communication" using other frequency bands in the 6 GHz band (here, the 2.4 GHz band or the 5 GHz band), the "multi-band capability information (field)" in the 6 GHz band association request frame will contain information indicating that "communication of multi-band modulated signals is not possible."

[0556] It is also possible to implement the present invention by arranging the "multiband transmission capability information (field)" and "multiband reception capability information (field)" in Fig. 44 in the capability information field in Fig. 40. It is also possible to implement the present invention by arranging the "multiband capability information (field)" in Fig. 45 in the capability information field in Fig. 40.

[0557] In addition, in Fig. 44, it is called "multiband transmission capability information (field)" and "multiband reception capability information (field)", but it is not limited to these names. In addition, in Fig. 45, it is called "multiband capability information (field)", but it is not limited to these names.

[0558] The association request frame may include information other than that shown in Figure 44. Similarly, the association request frame may include information other than that shown in Figure 45.

[0559] AP #1 of 4201_1 in Fig. 42 receives "the 2.4 GHz band association request frame (2.4 GHz band modulated signal), the 5 GHz band association request frame (5 GHz band modulated signal), and the 6 GHz band association request frame (6 GHz band modulated signal)" transmitted by terminal #1 of 4202_1. Then, based on the data obtained from these association request frames, AP #1 of 4201_1 determines the transmission method, modulation method, error correction coding method, multi-band configuration method, etc., creates a data frame, and transmits the modulated signal of the data frame to terminal #1 of 4202_1.

[0560] The configuration of AP#1 of 4201_1 in FIG. 42 is as shown in FIG.

[0561] The transmitting / receiving device 102_1 in FIG. 1 demodulates the association request frame of the 2.4 GHz band and obtains data of the association request frame of the 2.4 GHz band.

[0562] Then, the transmitting / receiving device 102_2 in FIG. 1 demodulates the association request frame of the 5 GHz band and obtains data of the association request frame of the 5 GHz band.

[0563] The transmitting / receiving device 102_3 in FIG. 1 demodulates the association request frame of the 6 GHz band and obtains data of the association request frame of the 6 GHz band.

[0564] 1 receives association request frame data for the 2.4 GHz band, association request frame data for the 5 GHz band, and association request frame data for the 6 GHz band via a received data processing unit. Based on this data, control unit 111 generates association response frame data for the 2.4 GHz band, association response frame data for the 5 GHz band, and association response frame data for the 6 GHz band, and outputs them as control signal 112.

[0565] Then, the transceiver 102_1 in AP#1 of 4201_1 in FIG. 42 receives the control signal 112 as input, generates a modulated signal of the 2.4 GHz association response frame from the data of the 2.4 GHz association response frame included in the control signal 112, and outputs the modulated signal of the 2.4 GHz association response frame, and the modulated signal of the 2.4 GHz association response frame is output as radio waves from the antenna 103_1.

[0566] The transceiver 102_2 in AP#1 of 4201_1 in FIG. 42 receives the control signal 112 as input, generates a modulated signal of the 5 GHz band association response frame from the data of the 5 GHz band association response frame included in the control signal 112, and outputs the modulated signal of the 5 GHz band association response frame, and the modulated signal of the 5 GHz band association response frame is output as radio waves from the antenna 103_2.

[0567] The transceiver 102_3 in AP#1 of 4201_1 in FIG. 42 receives the control signal 112 as input, generates a modulated signal of the 6 GHz band association response frame from the data of the 6 GHz band association response frame included in the control signal 112, and outputs the modulated signal of the 6 GHz band association response frame, and the modulated signal of the 6 GHz band association response frame is output as radio waves from the antenna 103_3.

[0568] It should be noted that AP#1 of 4201_1 may have a frequency band in which it does not transmit an association response frame.

[0569] Fig. 46 shows an example of the configuration of an association response frame transmitted by an AP. The association response frame in Fig. 46 includes "frame control (field)," "duration (field)," "DA (destination address) (field)," "SA (source address) (field)," "BSSID (field)," "sequence control (field)," "capability information (field)," "status code (field)," "association identifier (field)," "supported rates (field)," and "FCS (field)" shown in Fig. 41, as well as "multiband transmission support information (field)" and "multiband reception support information (field)."

[0570] For example, the "multi-band transmission support information (field)" in Figure 46 contains information on whether an AP having the configuration of Figure 1 supports the transmission of multi-band modulated signals.

[0571] For example, the "multiband reception support information (field)" in Figure 46 contains information on whether an AP having the configuration of Figure 1 can receive a multiband modulated signal transmitted by the communication partner.

[0572] For example, if AP#1 of 4201_1 in Figure 42 is capable of "multi-band transmission" using the 2.4 GHz band and other frequency bands (here, the 5 GHz band or the 6 GHz band), the "multi-band transmission support information (field)" of the association response frame for the 2.4 GHz band will contain information indicating that "transmission of multi-band modulated signals is possible."

[0573] Furthermore, if AP#1 of 4201_1 in Figure 42 is capable of "multi-band transmission" using the 5 GHz band and other frequency bands (here, the 2.4 GHz band or the 6 GHz band), the "multi-band transmission support information (field)" of the 5 GHz band association response frame will contain information indicating that "transmission of multi-band modulated signals is possible."

[0574] If AP#1 of 4201_1 in Figure 42 is capable of "multi-band transmission" using other frequency bands in the 6 GHz band (here, the 2.4 GHz band or the 5 GHz band), the "multi-band transmission support information (field)" in the 6 GHz band association response frame will contain information indicating that "transmission of multi-band modulated signals is possible."

[0575] On the other hand, if there is a multi-band transmission that the AP does not support, the following processing will be performed.

[0576] If the AP is not capable of "multi-band transmission" using the 2.4 GHz band and other frequency bands (here, the 5 GHz band or the 6 GHz band), the "multi-band transmission support information (field)" in the 2.4 GHz band association response frame will contain information stating that "transmission of multi-band modulated signals is not supported."

[0577] If the AP is not capable of "multi-band transmission" using other frequency bands in the 5 GHz band (here, the 2.4 GHz band or the 6 GHz band), the "multi-band transmission support information (field)" in the 5 GHz band association response frame will contain information stating that "transmission of multi-band modulated signals is not supported."

[0578] If the AP is not capable of "multi-band transmission" using other frequency bands in the 6 GHz band (here, the 2.4 GHz band or the 5 GHz band), the "multi-band transmission support information (field)" in the 6 GHz association response frame will contain information indicating that "transmission of multi-band modulated signals is not supported."

[0579] Then, AP#1 of 4201_1 in FIG. 42 makes the following settings to the "multiband reception support information (field)" in FIG.

[0580] For example, if AP#1 of 4201_1 in Figure 42 is capable of "multi-band reception" in the 2.4 GHz band and other frequency bands (here, the 5 GHz band or the 6 GHz band), that is, capable of demodulating multi-band modulated signals transmitted by the communication partner, the "multi-band reception support information (field)" in the 2.4 GHz band association response frame will contain information indicating that "if the communication partner transmits a multi-band modulated signal, it can be received, that is, it can be demodulated."

[0581] Furthermore, if AP#1 of 4201_1 in Figure 42 is capable of "multi-band reception" using the 5 GHz band and other frequency bands (here, the 2.4 GHz band or the 6 GHz band), that is, capable of demodulating the multi-band modulated signal transmitted by the communication partner, the "multi-band reception support information (field)" of the 5 GHz band association response frame will contain information indicating that "if the communication partner transmits a multi-band modulated signal, it can be received, that is, it can be demodulated."

[0582] If AP#1 of 4201_1 in Figure 42 is capable of "multiband reception" using other frequency bands in the 6 GHz band (here, the 2.4 GHz band or the 5 GHz band), that is, capable of demodulating the multiband modulated signal transmitted by the communication partner, the "multiband reception support information (field)" in the 6 GHz band association response frame will contain information indicating that "if the communication partner transmits a multiband modulated signal, it can be received, that is, it can be demodulated."

[0583] On the other hand, if there is multi-band reception that the AP does not support, the following processing will be performed.

[0584] If the AP cannot perform "multi-band reception" using the 2.4 GHz band and other frequency bands (here, the 5 GHz band or the 6 GHz band), that is, cannot demodulate the multi-band modulated signal sent by the communication partner, the "multi-band reception support information (field)" in the 2.4 GHz band association response frame will contain information indicating that "if the communication partner sends a multi-band modulated signal, reception is not possible, that is, demodulation is not possible."

[0585] If the AP cannot perform "multi-band reception" using the 5 GHz band and other frequency bands (here, the 2.4 GHz band or the 6 GHz band), that is, cannot demodulate the multi-band modulated signal sent by the communication partner, the "multi-band reception support information (field)" in the 5 GHz band association response frame will contain information indicating that "if the communication partner sends a multi-band modulated signal, reception is not possible, that is, demodulation is not possible."

[0586] If the AP cannot perform "multi-band reception" using the 6 GHz band and other frequency bands (here, the 2.4 GHz band or the 5 GHz band), that is, cannot demodulate the multi-band modulated signal sent by the communication partner, the "multi-band reception support information (field)" in the 6 GHz band association response frame will contain information indicating that "if the communication partner sends a multi-band modulated signal, reception is not possible, that is, demodulation is not possible."

[0587] Figure 47 shows the configuration of the association response frame sent by the AP, which differs from that in Figure 46. Figure 47 differs from Figure 46 in that a "multiband communication support information (field)" exists instead of the "multiband transmission support information (field)" and "multiband reception support information (field)".

[0588] For example, the "multi-band communication support information (field)" in FIG. 47 contains information on whether an AP having the configuration in FIG. 1 is capable of communication using multi-band modulated signals.

[0589] For example, if AP#1 of 4201_1 in Figure 42 is capable of "multi-band communication" using the 2.4 GHz band and other frequency bands (here, the 5 GHz band or the 6 GHz band), the "multi-band communication compatibility information (field)" in Figure 47 of the association response frame for the 2.4 GHz band will contain information indicating that "communication of multi-band modulated signals is possible."

[0590] Furthermore, if AP#1 of 4201_1 in Figure 42 is capable of "multi-band communication" using the 5 GHz band and other frequency bands (here, the 2.4 GHz band or the 6 GHz band), the "multi-band communication compatibility information (field)" in Figure 47 of the 5 GHz band association response frame will contain information indicating that "communication of multi-band modulated signals is possible."

[0591] If AP#1 of 4201_1 in Figure 42 is capable of "multi-band communication" using other frequency bands in the 6 GHz band (here, the 2.4 GHz band or the 5 GHz band), the "multi-band communication compatibility information (field)" in Figure 47 of the 6 GHz band association response frame will contain information indicating that "communication of multi-band modulated signals is possible."

[0592] On the other hand, if there is a multi-band transmission that the AP does not support, the following processing will be performed.

[0593] If the AP is not capable of "multi-band communication" using the 2.4 GHz band and other frequency bands (here, the 5 GHz band or the 6 GHz band), the "multi-band communication support information (field)" in Figure 47 of the 2.4 GHz band association response frame will contain information stating that "communication of multi-band modulated signals is not possible."

[0594] If the AP is unable to perform "multi-band communication" using other frequency bands in the 5 GHz band (here, the 2.4 GHz band or the 6 GHz band), the "Multi-band communication support information (field)" in Figure 47 of the 5 GHz band association response frame will contain information indicating that "communication of multi-band modulated signals is not possible."

[0595] If the AP is not capable of "multi-band communication" using other frequency bands in the 6 GHz band (here, the 2.4 GHz band or the 5 GHz band), the "multi-band communication support information (field)" in Figure 47 of the 6 GHz band association response frame will contain information stating that "communication of multi-band modulated signals is not possible."

[0596] It is also possible to implement the "multiband transmission support information (field)" and "multiband reception support information (field)" in Fig. 46 by placing them in the capability information field in Fig. 41. It is also possible to implement the "multiband communication support information (field)" in Fig. 47 by placing them in the capability information field in Fig. 41.

[0597] Also, in Fig. 46, it is called "multiband transmission support information (field)" and "multiband reception support information (field)", but it is not limited to these names. Also, in Fig. 47, it is called "multiband communication support information (field)", but it is not limited to these names.

[0598] The association response frame may include information other than that shown in Fig. 46. Similarly, the association response frame may include information other than that shown in Fig. 47.

[0599] Terminal #1 at 4202_1 in Figure 42 will receive the "2.4 GHz band association response frame (2.4 GHz band modulated signal), 5 GHz band association response frame (5 GHz band modulated signal), and 6 GHz band association response frame (6 GHz band modulated signal)" transmitted by AP #1 at 4201_1.

[0600] In terminal #1 of 4202_1 having the configuration in FIG. 43, the transmitting / receiving device 102_1 receives as input the modulated signal of the association response frame of 2.4 GHz band received by the antenna 105_1, demodulates it, and obtains data of the association response frame of 2.4 GHz band.

[0601] The transmitting / receiving device 102_2 receives as input the modulated signal of the association response frame of the 5 GHz band received by the antenna 105_2, demodulates it, and obtains data of the association response frame of the 5 GHz band.

[0602] The transmitting / receiving device 102_3 receives as input the modulated signal of the association response frame of the 6 GHz band received by the antenna 105_3, demodulates it, and obtains data of the association response frame of the 6 GHz band.

[0603] Then, for example, the control unit 111 obtains data of the association response frame for the 2.4 GHz band, data of the association response frame for the 5 GHz band, and data of the association response frame for the 6 GHz band via the received data processing unit 108, and based on these data, AP#1 of 4201_1 determines a transmission method, a modulation method, an error correction coding method, a multiband configuration method, etc. based on the data obtained in these association request frames. Then, based on this determined information, the transceiver 102_1, the transceiver 102_2, and the transceiver 102_3 generate modulated signals of data frames.

[0604] As described above, by generating association request frames and association response frames, the AP and terminal can transmit and receive multi-band modulated signals, which has the effect of improving data transmission speed and data reception quality in a system consisting of an AP and terminals.

[0605] Next, FIG. 48 shows a different structure of the beacon frame transmitted by the AP from that shown in FIG. The beacon frame in Figure 48 includes the following fields shown in Figure 37: "Frame Control (field)", "Duration (field)", "DA (Destination Address) (field)", "SA (Source Address) (field)", "BSSID (field)", "Sequence Control (field)", "Frame Body (field)", "FCS (Frame Check Sequence) (field)", "Timestamp (field)", "Beacon Interval (field)", "Capability Information (field)", "SSID (field)", "FH (Frequency Hopping) Parameter Set (field)", "DS (Direct Sequence) Parameter Set (field)", "CF (Contention Free) Parameter Set (field)", "IBSS Parameter Set (field)", "TIM (Traffic Indication Map) (field)", "Country (field)", "Power Limit (field)", "Channel Switching (field)", "Quiet (field)", "TPC (Transmit Power Control) Report (field)", "ERP (Effective Radiated Power) (field)", "Extended Supported Rate (field)", and "RSN (Robust Security In addition to the "Network (field)", it also includes "Multi-band transmission support information (field)" and "Multi-band reception support information (field)".

[0606] For example, the "multiband transmission support information (field)" in Figure 48 contains information on whether an AP having the configuration of Figure 1 supports the transmission of multiband modulated signals.

[0607] For example, the "multiband reception support information (field)" in Figure 48 contains information on whether an AP having the configuration of Figure 1 can receive or not receive a multiband modulated signal transmitted by the communication partner.

[0608] For example, if AP#1 of 4201_1 in Figure 42 is capable of "multi-band transmission" using the 2.4 GHz band and other frequency bands (here, the 5 GHz band or the 6 GHz band), the "multi-band transmission support information (field)" of the 2.4 GHz band beacon frame will contain information indicating that "transmission of multi-band modulated signals is possible."

[0609] Furthermore, if AP#1 of 4201_1 in Figure 42 is capable of "multi-band transmission" using the 5 GHz band and other frequency bands (here, the 2.4 GHz band or the 6 GHz band), the "multi-band transmission support information (field)" of the 5 GHz band beacon frame will contain information indicating that "transmission of multi-band modulated signals is possible."

[0610] If AP#1 of 4201_1 in Figure 42 is capable of "multi-band transmission" using other frequency bands in the 6 GHz band (here, the 2.4 GHz band or the 5 GHz band), the "multi-band transmission support information (field)" of the 6 GHz band beacon frame will contain information indicating that "transmission of multi-band modulated signals is possible."

[0611] On the other hand, if there is a multi-band transmission that the AP does not support, the following processing will be performed.

[0612] If the AP is not capable of "multi-band transmission" using the 2.4 GHz band and other frequency bands (here, the 5 GHz band or the 6 GHz band), the "multi-band transmission support information (field)" in the 2.4 GHz band beacon frame will contain information stating that "transmission of multi-band modulated signals is not supported."

[0613] If the AP is not capable of "multi-band transmission" using other frequency bands in the 5 GHz band (here, the 2.4 GHz band or the 6 GHz band), the "multi-band transmission support information (field)" in the 5 GHz band beacon frame will contain information stating that "transmission of multi-band modulated signals is not supported."

[0614] If the AP is not capable of "multi-band transmission" using other frequency bands in the 6 GHz band (here, the 2.4 GHz band or the 5 GHz band), the "multi-band transmission support information (field)" in the 6 GHz band beacon frame will contain information stating that "transmission of multi-band modulated signals is not supported."

[0615] Then, AP#1 of 4201_1 in FIG. 42 makes the following settings to the "multiband reception support information (field)" in FIG.

[0616] For example, if AP#1 of 4201_1 in Figure 42 is capable of "multi-band reception" in the 2.4 GHz band and other frequency bands (here, the 5 GHz band or the 6 GHz band), that is, capable of demodulating multi-band modulated signals transmitted by the communication partner, the "multi-band reception support information (field)" of the 2.4 GHz band beacon frame will contain information indicating that "if the communication partner transmits a multi-band modulated signal, it can be received, that is, it can be demodulated."

[0617] Furthermore, if AP#1 of 4201_1 in Figure 42 is capable of "multi-band reception" using the 5 GHz band and other frequency bands (here, the 2.4 GHz band or the 6 GHz band), that is, capable of demodulating multi-band modulated signals transmitted by the communication partner, the "multi-band reception support information (field)" of the 5 GHz band beacon frame will contain information indicating that "if the communication partner transmits a multi-band modulated signal, it can be received, that is, it can be demodulated."

[0618] If AP#1 of 4201_1 in Figure 42 is capable of "multiband reception" using other frequency bands in the 6 GHz band (here, the 2.4 GHz band or the 5 GHz band), that is, capable of demodulating the multiband modulated signal transmitted by the communication partner, the "multiband reception support information (field)" of the 6 GHz band beacon frame will contain information indicating that "if the communication partner transmits a multiband modulated signal, it can be received, that is, it can be demodulated."

[0619] On the other hand, if there is multi-band reception that the AP does not support, the following processing will be performed.

[0620] If the AP cannot perform "multi-band reception" using the 2.4 GHz band and other frequency bands (here, the 5 GHz band or the 6 GHz band), that is, cannot demodulate the multi-band modulated signal transmitted by the communication partner, the "multi-band reception support information (field)" in the 2.4 GHz band beacon frame will contain information indicating that "if the communication partner transmits a multi-band modulated signal, reception is not possible, i.e. demodulation is not possible."

[0621] If the AP cannot perform "multi-band reception" using the 5 GHz band and other frequency bands (here, the 2.4 GHz band or the 6 GHz band), that is, cannot demodulate the multi-band modulated signal transmitted by the communication partner, the "multi-band reception support information (field)" in the 5 GHz band beacon frame will contain information indicating that "if the communication partner transmits a multi-band modulated signal, reception is not possible, i.e. demodulation is not possible."

[0622] If the AP cannot perform "multi-band reception" using the 6 GHz band and other frequency bands (here, the 2.4 GHz band or the 5 GHz band), that is, cannot demodulate the multi-band modulated signal transmitted by the communication partner, the "multi-band reception support information (field)" in the 6 GHz band beacon frame will contain information indicating that "if the communication partner transmits a multi-band modulated signal, reception is not possible, i.e. demodulation is not possible."

[0623] Figure 49 shows a different structure of the beacon frame transmitted by the AP from that shown in Figure 48. Figure 49 differs from Figure 48 in that a "multiband communication support information (field)" exists instead of the "multiband transmission support information (field)" and the "multiband reception support information (field)".

[0624] For example, the "multi-band communication support information (field)" in FIG. 49 contains information on whether an AP having the configuration in FIG. 1 is capable of communication using multi-band modulated signals.

[0625] For example, if AP#1 of 4201_1 in Figure 42 is capable of "multi-band communication" using the 2.4 GHz band and other frequency bands (here, the 5 GHz band or the 6 GHz band), the "multi-band communication compatibility information (field)" in Figure 49 of the 2.4 GHz band beacon frame will contain information stating that "communication of multi-band modulated signals is possible."

[0626] Furthermore, if AP#1 of 4201_1 in Figure 42 is capable of "multi-band communication" using the 5 GHz band and other frequency bands (here, the 2.4 GHz band or the 6 GHz band), the "multi-band communication compatibility information (field)" in Figure 49 of the 5 GHz band beacon frame will contain information indicating that "communication of multi-band modulated signals is possible."

[0627] If AP#1 of 4201_1 in Figure 42 is capable of "multi-band communication" using other frequency bands in the 6 GHz band (here, the 2.4 GHz band or the 5 GHz band), the "multi-band communication compatibility information (field)" in Figure 49 of the 6 GHz band beacon frame will contain information indicating that "communication of multi-band modulated signals is possible."

[0628] On the other hand, if there is a multi-band transmission that the AP does not support, the following processing will be performed.

[0629] If the AP cannot perform "multi-band communication" using the 2.4 GHz band and other frequency bands (here, the 5 GHz band or the 6 GHz band), the "Multi-band communication compatibility information (field)" in Figure 49 of the 2.4 GHz band beacon frame will contain information stating that "communication of multi-band modulated signals is not possible."

[0630] If the AP cannot perform "multi-band communication" using other frequency bands in the 5 GHz band (here, the 2.4 GHz band or the 6 GHz band), the "Multi-band communication compatibility information (field)" in Figure 49 of the 5 GHz band beacon frame will contain information stating that "communication of multi-band modulated signals is not possible."

[0631] If the AP is not capable of "multi-band communication" using other frequency bands in the 6 GHz band (here, the 2.4 GHz band or the 5 GHz band), the "multi-band communication compatibility information (field)" in Figure 49 of the 6 GHz band beacon frame will contain information stating that "communication of multi-band modulated signals is not possible."

[0632] It is also possible to implement the "multiband transmission support information (field)" and "multiband reception support information (field)" in Fig. 48 by placing them in the capability information field in Fig. 37. It is also possible to implement the "multiband communication support information (field)" in Fig. 49 by placing them in the capability information field in Fig. 37.

[0633] Also, in Fig. 48, it is called "multiband transmission support information (field)" and "multiband reception support information (field)", but it is not limited to these names. Also, in Fig. 49, it is called "multiband communication support information (field)", but it is not limited to these names.

[0634] Furthermore, information other than the information shown in Fig. 48 may be included in the beacon frame. Similarly, information other than the information shown in Fig. 49 may be included in the beacon frame.

[0635] Terminal #1 at 4202_1 in Figure 42 will receive the "2.4 GHz band beacon frame (2.4 GHz band modulated signal), 5 GHz band beacon frame (5 GHz band modulated signal), and 6 GHz band beacon frame (6 GHz band modulated signal)" transmitted by AP #1 at 4201_1.

[0636] 43 receives the received data group 100 and obtains the data of each beacon frame. Then, the control unit 111 outputs the obtained beacon frame data as a beacon frame information signal 4301.

[0637] The multiband-related information ("multiband transmission support information," "multiband reception support information," and "multiband communication support information") contained in the 2.4 GHz band beacon frame (2.4 GHz band modulated signal) is referred to as first multiband-related information, the multiband-related information contained in the 5 GHz band beacon frame (5 GHz band modulated signal) is referred to as second multiband-related information, and the multiband-related information contained in the 6 GHz band beacon frame (6 GHz band modulated signal) is referred to as third multiband-related information.

[0638] The received data processing unit 108 receives the first data group 106_1, the second data group 106_2, and the third data group 106_3 as input, thereby obtaining beacon frame data for each frequency band. Note that the received data processing unit 108 also obtains other data.

[0639] The control unit 111 receives the received data group 100 and obtains the data of each beacon frame. The control unit 111 then outputs the obtained beacon frame data as the beacon frame information signal 4301.

[0640] The setting unit 4303 receives a setting signal 4302. The setting signal 4302 includes information on the SSID of the AP to which the terminal in Fig. 43 (terminal #1 of 4202_1 in this example) connects. For example, the setting signal 4302 includes information on SSID 1_1, SSID 1_2, and SSID 1_3, and the setting unit 4303 performs the following processing based on the information on SSID 1_1, SSID 1_2, and SSID 1_3.

[0641] The setting unit 4303 obtains the "SA (field) or BSSID (field) of the beacon frame including the SSID 1_1," the "SA (field) or BSSID (field) of the beacon frame including the SSID 1_2," and the "SA (field) or BSSID (field) of the beacon frame including the SSID 1_3." In other words, the setting unit 4303 obtains the "MAC address of the AP corresponding to the SSID 1_1," the "MAC address of the AP corresponding to the SSID 1_2," and the "MAC address of the AP corresponding to the SSID 1_3."

[0642] Furthermore, the setting unit 4303 obtains the first multiband-related information, the second multiband-related information, and the third multiband-related information.

[0643] Then, if the "SA (field) or BSSID (field) of the beacon frame including the 1_1 SSID" and the "SA (field) or BSSID (field) of the beacon frame including the 1_2 SSID" are the same and "the first multiband related information and the second multiband information indicate that multiband communication is possible," the setting unit 4303 determines that "multiband communication is possible by the AP corresponding to the 1_1 SSID and the AP corresponding to the 1_2 SSID." Note that it may be determined that the "AP corresponding to the 1_1 SSID and the AP corresponding to the 1_2 SSID" are one device.

[0644] If the "SA (field) or BSSID (field) of the beacon frame including SSID 1_1" and the "SA (field) or BSSID (field) of the beacon frame including SSID 1_2" are different, the setting unit 4303 determines that "multi-band communication between the AP corresponding to SSID 1_1 and the AP corresponding to SSID 1_2 is not possible."

[0645] Furthermore, if "either the first multiband-related information or the second multiband information indicates that multiband communication is not possible," the setting unit 403 determines that "multiband communication between the AP corresponding to the 1_1 SSID and the AP corresponding to the 1_2 SSID is not possible."

[0646] The setting unit 4303 determines that "multiband communication is possible between the AP corresponding to the SSID 1_1 and the AP corresponding to the SSID 1_3" if "the SA (field) or BSSID (field) of the beacon frame including the SSID 1_1" and "the SA (field) or BSSID (field) of the beacon frame including the SSID 1_3" are the same and "the first multiband related information and the third multiband information indicate that multiband communication is possible." Note that it may be determined that "the AP corresponding to the SSID 1_1 and the AP corresponding to the SSID 1_3" are one device.

[0647] If the "SA (field) or BSSID (field) of the beacon frame including SSID 1_1" and the "SA (field) or BSSID (field) of the beacon frame including SSID 1_3" are different, the setting unit 4303 determines that "multi-band communication between the AP corresponding to SSID 1_1 and the AP corresponding to SSID 1_3 is not possible."

[0648] Furthermore, if "either the first multiband-related information or the third multiband information indicates that multiband communication is not possible," the setting unit 403 determines that "multiband communication between the AP corresponding to SSID 1_1 and the AP corresponding to SSID 1_3 is not possible."

[0649] If the "SA (field) or BSSID (field) of the beacon frame including the 1_2 SSID" and the "SA (field) or BSSID (field) of the beacon frame including the 1_3 SSID" are the same and "the second multiband related information and the third multiband information indicate that multiband communication is possible," the setting unit 4303 determines that "multiband communication is possible between the AP corresponding to the 1_2 SSID and the AP corresponding to the 1_3 SSID." Note that it may be determined that the "AP corresponding to the 1_2 SSID and the AP corresponding to the 1_3 SSID" are one device.

[0650] If the "SA (field) or BSSID (field) of the beacon frame including SSID 1_2" is different from the "SA (field) or BSSID (field) of the beacon frame including SSID 1_3," the setting unit 4303 determines that "multi-band communication between the AP corresponding to SSID 1_2 and the AP corresponding to SSID 1_3 is not possible."

[0651] Furthermore, if "either the second multiband-related information or the third multiband information indicates that multiband communication is not possible," the setting unit 403 determines that "multiband communication between the AP corresponding to SSID 1_2 and the AP corresponding to SSID 1_3 is not possible."

[0652] Then, the setting unit 4303 outputs a signal 4304 of information relating to the availability of multiband communication to the control unit 111. Based on the signal 4304 of information relating to the availability of multiband communication, the control unit 111 outputs a control signal 112 including information on whether "the transmitting / receiving devices 102_1, 102_2, and 102_3 will perform transmission processing or reception processing for multiband communication." Based on the control signal 112, the transmitting / receiving devices 102_1, 102_2, and 102_3 will determine whether to perform transmission operation for multiband communication or reception operation for multiband communication.

[0653] Alternatively, as another method, the setting unit 111 may obtain the first multiband-related information, the second multiband-related information, and the third multiband-related information, and search for an AP capable of performing multi-channel communication.

[0654] For example, it is assumed that the setting unit 111 has specified communication with an AP in the 2.4 GHz band using the setting signal 4302. It is also assumed that the setting unit 111 has obtained information from the first multiband-related information that multiband communication is possible in the first frequency band (2.4 GHz band). Based on this, it is assumed that the setting unit 111 searches for an SSID that is possible to communicate in the second frequency band (5 GHz band) or the third frequency band (6 GHz band).

[0655] At this time, the setting unit 111 obtains the second multiband-related information from the beacon frame of the second frequency band, searches for a beacon frame containing information indicating that multiband communication is possible, and, as described above, checks the SSID, SA, and BSSID to detect an AP (SSID) in the 5 GHz band that can communicate in the 2.4 GHz band and multiband.

[0656] Similarly, the setting unit 111 obtains third multiband-related information from the beacon frame of the third frequency band, searches for a beacon frame containing information indicating that multiband communication is possible, and, as described above, checks the SSID, SA, and BSSID to detect an AP (SSID) in the 6 GHz band that can communicate in the 2.4 GHz band and multiband.

[0657] In this way, by using beacon frames like those shown in Figures 48 and 49, it is possible to detect APs capable of multi-band communication, which has the effect of simplifying the procedures for implementing multi-band communication.

[0658] In the present embodiment, the terminal configuration is shown in FIG. 43 and the AP configuration is shown in FIG. 1, but the terminal configuration and the AP configuration are not limited to those shown in FIG. 43 and FIG. 1, respectively. For example, the terminal and the AP may use a transmission method such as a MIMO (Multiple-Input Multiple-Output) transmission method, a MISO (Multiple-Input Single-Output) transmission method, or a SIMO (Single-Input Multiple-Output) transmission method in the "transmission method of the first frequency band, or the transmission method of the second frequency band, or the transmission method of the third frequency band." Therefore, the transmission / reception devices 102_1, 102_2, and 102_3 in FIG. 43 and FIG. 1 may be connected to a plurality of transmission antennas or may be connected to a plurality of reception antennas.

[0659] In particular, when MIMO transmission or MISO transmission is used, the transmitting / receiving devices 102_1, 102_2, and 102_3 transmit a plurality of modulated signals at the same frequency (same frequency band) and at the same time using a plurality of antennas.

[0660] In addition, in this embodiment, an example has been described in which the AP and the terminal are capable of communication in three frequency bands. However, if the AP and the terminal are capable of communication in two or more frequency bands, multi-band communication is possible by implementing the same method as in this embodiment. Therefore, in the configuration example of the AP in FIG. 1, an example has been described in which the transceivers 102_1, 102_2, and 102_3 are provided. However, for example, in the case of an AP capable of communication in two frequency bands, any one of the transceivers 102_1, 102_2, and 102_3 may not be provided. Furthermore, in the case of an AP capable of communication in four or more frequency bands, one or more transceivers may be provided in addition to the configuration in FIG. 1. Similarly, in the configuration example of the terminal in FIG. 43, an example has been described in which the transceivers 102_1, 102_2, and 102_3 are provided. However, for example, in the case of a terminal capable of communication in two frequency bands, any one of the transceivers 102_1, 102_2, and 102_3 may not be provided. Furthermore, if the terminal is compatible with communication in four or more frequency bands, it may be equipped with one or more transmitting / receiving devices in addition to the configuration of FIG.

[0661] The AP and terminal may transmit frames other than management frames, control frames, and data frames. Furthermore, management frames may include frames other than Beacon frames, Probe request frames, Probe response frames, Association request frames, Association response frames, Disassociation frames, Authentication frames, De-authentication frames, and Action frames. Furthermore, control frames may include frames other than RTS (Request to Send) frames, CTS (Clear to Send) frames, ACK (Acknowledgement) frames, Block ACK request frames, and Block ACK frames.

[0662] Furthermore, this embodiment is merely an example, and it is possible to implement the present invention in the same way by, for example, treating the AP as a terminal and the terminal as an AP. In this embodiment, the AP and terminal are named, but the AP may be called a base station, a communication device, a terminal, a broadcast station, a node, etc., and the terminal may be called a communication device, an access point, a node, a base station, etc.

[0663] For example, multiband transmission may be performed by the first AP and the second AP, that is, modulated signals for multiband communication may be transmitted by a plurality of APs.

[0664] In this embodiment, multi-band communication using a first frequency band, a second frequency band, and a third frequency band has been described, but it is of course possible to similarly implement this embodiment as multi-channel communication by considering the first frequency band as the first channel, the second frequency band as the second channel, and the third frequency band as the third channel.

[0665] In the above embodiments, a communication method using RTS and CTS has been described, but a communication method not using RTS and CTS may also be used. For example, the above embodiments can be applied to TDD (Time Division Duplex), TDMA (Time Division Multiple Access), and TDM (Time Division Multiplexing) and implemented in the same way. In this case, RTS and CTS may or may not be used. Furthermore, the communication device and communication system of the above embodiments may be configured to be able to switch between communicating using RTS and CTS and communicating without using RTS and CTS, or may be configured to be able to switch between communicating using CSMA / CA and communicating using "TDD, TDMA, or TDM."

[0666] 1 and the like, a communication device serving as an access point has been shown to have three transceivers 102_1, 102_2, and 102_3, but a terminal does not necessarily have to have three transceivers and may have two transceivers. For example, a terminal (such as a personal computer or server, but not limited to these, may be a smartphone, mobile phone, tablet, etc.) that is expected to be connected to a power outlet and used relatively frequently may have three transceivers, while a terminal (such as a smartphone, mobile phone, tablet, etc., but not limited to these, may be a personal computer, server, etc.) that is connected to a power outlet and used relatively infrequently may have two transceivers. This is because operating three transceivers increases power consumption, and therefore battery consumption in a terminal that is connected to a power outlet and used relatively infrequently may be reduced.

[0667] Note that the "multiband transmission capability information (field)" and the "multiband reception capability information (field)" shown in Fig. 44 may be placed in the extension field. In this case, Fig. 44 does not necessarily include the "multiband transmission capability information (field)" and / or the "multiband reception capability information (field)." Then, for example, the frame in Fig. 44 includes information indicating whether or not an extension field is included.

[0668] When the "information indicating whether an extension field is included" is "not included," the "multiband transmission capability information (field)" and the "multiband reception capability information (field)" are not included in the frame of Fig. 44. On the other hand, when the "information indicating whether an extension field is included" is "included," the "multiband transmission capability information (field)" and / or the "multiband reception capability information (field)" are included in the frame of Fig. 44.

[0669] A communication device that receives the frame can determine whether the received frame includes an extended field based on the "information indicating whether an extended field is included," thereby determining, for example, whether the frame includes "multiband transmission capability information (field)" and / or "multiband reception capability information (field)."

[0670] The "information indicating whether an extension field is included" may include information indicating the data size of the extension field, information indicating the included information, etc. The extension field may also include information other than the "multiband transmission capability information (field)" and the "multiband reception capability information (field)".

[0671] The "multiband transmission support information (field)" and "multiband reception support information (field)" shown in Fig. 46 may be placed in the extension field. In this case, Fig. 46 does not necessarily have to include the "multiband transmission support information (field)" and / or the "multiband reception support information (field)." Then, for example, the frame in Fig. 46 will include information indicating whether or not an extension field is included.

[0672] When the "information indicating whether an extension field is included" is "not included," the "multiband transmission support information (field)" and the "multiband reception support information (field)" will not be included in the frame of Fig. 46. On the other hand, when the "information indicating whether an extension field is included" is "included," the "multiband transmission support information (field)" and / or the "multiband reception support information (field)" will be included in the frame of Fig. 46.

[0673] A communication device that receives the frame can determine whether the received frame includes an extended field based on the "information indicating whether an extended field is included," thereby determining, for example, whether the frame includes "multiband transmission support information (field)" and / or "multiband reception support information (field)."

[0674] The "information indicating whether an extended field is included" may include information indicating the data size of the extended field, information indicating the included information, etc. The extended field may also include information other than the "multiband transmission support information (field)" and the "multiband reception support information (field)".

[0675] The "multiband capability information (field)" shown in Fig. 45 may be placed in the extension field. In this case, the "multiband capability information (field)" does not have to be included in Fig. 45. For example, the frame in Fig. 45 includes information indicating whether or not an extension field is included.

[0676] When the "information indicating whether an extension field is included" is "not included," the "multiband capability information (field)" is not included in the frame of Fig. 45. On the other hand, when the "information indicating whether an extension field is included" is "included," the "multiband capability information (field)" is included in the frame of Fig. 45.

[0677] A communication device that receives the frame can determine whether the received frame includes an extended field based on the "information indicating whether an extended field is included," thereby determining, for example, whether the frame includes "multiband capability information (field)."

[0678] The "information indicating whether an extended field is included" may include information indicating the data size of the extended field, information indicating the included information, etc. The extended field may also include information other than the "multiband capability information (field)."

[0679] The "multiband communication support information (field)" shown in Fig. 47 may be placed in the extension field. In this case, the "multiband communication support information (field)" does not have to be included in Fig. 47. For example, the frame in Fig. 47 includes information indicating whether or not an extension field is included.

[0680] When the "information indicating whether an extension field is included" indicates "not included," the "multiband communication support information (field)" is not included in the frame of Fig. 47. On the other hand, when the "information indicating whether an extension field is included" indicates "included," the "multiband communication support information (field)" is included in the frame of Fig. 47.

[0681] A communication device that receives the frame can determine whether the received frame includes an extended field based on the "information indicating whether an extended field is included," thereby determining, for example, whether the frame includes "multi-band communication support information (field)."

[0682] The "information indicating whether an extended field is included" may include information indicating the data size of the extended field, information indicating the included information, etc. The extended field may also include information other than the "multiband communication support information (field)."

[0683] Note that RTS1_11 etc. shown in Figure 22A, CTS2_21 etc. shown in Figure 22B, and symbol group 2_31 etc. shown in Figure 22C indicate transmission using one of the OFDMA communication units, i.e., one resource unit, when using multi-carrier, for example, OFDMA, and specifically, a resource unit corresponds to a bundle of a predetermined number of subcarriers (for example, 16, or an integer greater than or equal to 1).

[0684] Also, in Figures 22A, 26A, 27A, 28A, 29A, 31A, 33A, etc., if multiple RTSs exist in a certain time period, the receiver addresses (e.g., MAC addresses) included in each RTS may be the same (but do not have to be the same). Also, in Figures 22A, 26A, 27A, 28A, 29A, 31A, 33A, etc., two or more RTSs with the same receiver address may exist in a certain time period. However, the method for setting the receiver address of the RTS is not limited to this.

[0685] 22A, 26A, 27A, 28A, 29A, 31A, 33A, etc., if multiple RTSs exist in a certain time period, the transmitter addresses (e.g., MAC addresses) included in each RTS may be the same (but do not have to be the same). Also, in 22A, 26A, 27A, 28A, 29A, 31A, 33A, etc., two or more RTSs with the same transmitter address may exist in a certain time period. However, the method for setting the transmitter addresses of the RTSs is not limited to this.

[0686] In Figures 22B, 23A, 24A, 25A, 26B, 27B, 28B, 29B, 29C, 31B, 33B, 33C, etc., when multiple CTSs exist in a certain time period, the receiver addresses (e.g., MAC addresses) included in each CTS may be the same (but do not have to be the same). Also, in Figures 22B, 23A, 24A, 25A, 26B, 27B, 28B, 29B, 29C, 31B, 33B, 33C, etc., two or more CTSs with the same receiver address may exist in a certain time period. However, the method for setting the receiver address of the CTS is not limited to this.

[0687] 3A, 3B, 3C, 4A, 4B, 5A, 5B, 5C, 5D, 5E, 5F, 5G, 5H, 5I, 5J, 5K, 6A, 6B, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 22A, 22B, 22C, 23A, 23B, 24A, 24B, 25A, 25B, In frames such as Figures 26A, 26B, 26C, 27A, 27B, 27C, 28A, 28B, 28C, 29A, 29B, 29C, 29D, 31A, 31B, 31C, 33A, 33B, 33C, and 33D, a trigger frame (trigger signal) for adjusting the transmission timing of symbols may be present in a certain time period.

[0688] In this specification, the operation of a part described with respect to an AP may be the operation of a base station, a repeater, a terminal, a communication device, a personal computer, a mobile phone, a smartphone, a tablet, a server, an eNB (e Node B), a gNB (g Node B), a car, a bicycle, a satellite, a robot, a motorcycle, a ship, a drone, an aircraft, a moving object, a home appliance, a computer, etc. In addition, in this specification, the operation of a part described with respect to a terminal may be the operation of an AP, a base station, a repeater, a communication device, a personal computer, a mobile phone, a smartphone, a tablet, a server, an eNB (e Node B), a gNB (g Node B), a car, a bicycle, a satellite, a robot, a motorcycle, a ship, a drone, an aircraft, a moving object, a home appliance, a computer, etc.

[0689] In this specification, the term "Xth frequency band" can be replaced with "frequency band X." Furthermore, the term "Xth time" can be replaced with "time X." The same applies when the above "X" is replaced with an alphabet or number such as "A," "B," or "A1."

[0690] The configurations and communication methods of the communication devices or access points of the above-described embodiments can also be expressed as follows, but are not limited to these.

[0691] FIG. 50 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of an access point 5000.

[0692] As shown in FIG. 50, the access point 5000 includes a first interface 5001, a second interface 5002, and a control unit 5003.

[0693] The first interface 5001 performs wireless communication in the first band.

[0694] The second interface 5002 performs wireless communication in a second band different from the first band.

[0695] The control unit 5003 uses at least one of the first interface 5001 and the second interface 5002 to select one method of RTS (Request to Send) / CTS (Clear to Send) control from three different methods, and performs the selected RTS / CTS control with the terminal.

[0696] Here, of the above three methods, the first method is a method of transmitting a first RTS signal addressed to one terminal in the first band or the second band and receiving a first CTS signal transmitted in response to the first RTS signal. The second method is a method of transmitting a second RTS signal addressed to multiple terminals in the first band or the second band and receiving a second CTS signal transmitted in response to the second RTS signal. The third method is a method of transmitting a third RTS signal addressed to multiple terminals in each of the first band and the second band and receiving a third CTS signal transmitted in response to the third RTS signal.

[0697] For example, after receiving a CTS signal through RTS / CTS control in one of the above methods, the control unit 5003 may transmit data in the resource unit in which the CTS signal was received.

[0698] For example, in the third method, the source MAC (Medium Access Control) address of the third RTS signal transmitted in each of the first band and the second band may be the same.

[0699] FIG. 51 is a flow diagram illustrating an example of a communication method performed by the access point 5000.

[0700] As shown in FIG. 51, in step S5001, the control unit 5003 uses at least one of the first interface 5001 and the second interface 5002 to select one method of RTS (Request to Send) / CTS (Clear to Send) control from three different methods.

[0701] In step S5002, the control unit 5003 performs RTS / CTS control of the selected method with the terminal.

[0702] In this way, the access point 5000 aims to improve the data transmission speed of the communication system.

[0703] In each of the above embodiments, each component may be configured with dedicated hardware, or may be realized by executing a software program suitable for each component. Each component may be realized by a program execution unit such as a CPU or processor reading and executing a software program recorded on a recording medium such as a hard disk or semiconductor memory. Here, the software that realizes the access point and the like in each of the above embodiments is a program such as the following.

[0704] In other words, this program causes a computer to execute a communication method executed by an access point having a first interface that performs wireless communication in a first band and a second interface that performs wireless communication in a second band different from the first band, the communication method including a selection step of selecting one method of RTS (Request to Send) / CTS (Clear to Send) control from among three mutually different methods using at least one of the first interface and the second interface, and a control step of performing RTS / CTS control of the selected one method with a terminal, wherein the first method of the three methods is a method of transmitting a first RTS signal addressed to one terminal in the first band or the second band and receiving a first CTS signal transmitted in response to the first RTS signal, the second method of the three methods is a method of transmitting second RTS signals addressed to multiple terminals in the first band or the second band and receiving a second CTS signal transmitted in response to the second RTS signal, and the third method of the three methods is a method of transmitting third RTS signals addressed to multiple terminals in each of the first band and the second band and receiving a third CTS signal transmitted in response to the third RTS signal.

[0705] While the access points and the like according to one or more aspects have been described above based on the embodiments, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. As long as they do not deviate from the spirit of the present invention, various modifications conceivable by those skilled in the art to the present embodiments and configurations constructed by combining components of different embodiments may also be included within the scope of one or more aspects. [Industrial Applicability]

[0706] The present invention can be used in wireless communication access points. [Explanation of symbols]

[0707] 5000 Access Points 5001 First Interface 5002 Second Interface 5003 Control section

Claims

1. a first interface for wireless communication over one or more channels in a first band; a second interface for wireless communication on one or more channels of a second band different from the first band; a control unit that performs RTS (Request to Send) / CTS (Clear to Send) control with a plurality of terminals using the first interface and the second interface; The one or more channels of the first band and the one or more channels of the second band are frequency bands to which the terminals that have received the RTS signal may return a CTS signal, the control unit, in the RTS / CTS control, simultaneously transmits the RTS signals addressed to the plurality of terminals in each of the first band and the second band; When the CTS signal is received from any one of the plurality of terminals on one or more channels of the first band and a part of the one or more channels of the second band, data communication is performed with the terminal that transmitted the CTS signal using the part of the channels. Access point.

2. When the RTS signals are simultaneously transmitted, simultaneously transmitting the RTS signal to the plurality of terminals using one or more channels of the first band and one or more channels of the second band; The access point of claim 1 .

3. In the RTS / CTS control, the source MAC (Medium Access Control) address of the RTS signal transmitted in each of the first band and the second band is common. The access point of claim 1 .

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