Coverage enhancement and configuration for two-step rach in non-terrestrial networks

Abstract

Based on the preamble signal-to-PO mapping, various configurations are provided that allow for coverage enhancement and support for repetition, frequency hopping, and antenna switching during msgA transmissions (in NTN). In one configuration, the base station provides and the UE obtains a RACH configuration that associates the preamble signal with at least one PO for two-step random access, where the PO spans a time interval greater than one time slot. In another configuration, the base station provides and the UE obtains a RACH configuration that associates the preamble signal with multiple POs for two-step random access. In yet another configuration, the base station provides the UE with multiple configurations, each indicating a PO for two-step random access. In yet another configuration, the base station provides the UE with a configuration indicating a guard band for the POs for two-step random access, where the guard band is indicated in units of subcarriers spanning less than one PRB.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This patent application claims the benefit of the following applications: U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 201,683, filed May 7, 2021, entitled "Coverage ENHANCEMENT AND CONFIGURATION FOR TWO-STEP RACH IN NON-TERRESTRIAL NETWORKS"; and U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 651,206, filed February 15, 2022, entitled "Coverage ENHANCEMENT AND CONFIGURATION FOR TWO-STEP RACH IN NON-TERRESTRIAL NETWORKS", the disclosures of which are expressly incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0002] In summary, this case concerns communication systems, and more specifically, wireless communication systems between base stations and user equipment (UE). Prior Technology

[0003] Wireless communication systems are widely deployed to provide a variety of telecommunications services such as telephone, video, data, messaging, and broadcasting. Typical wireless communication systems employ multiplexing access technologies that support communication with multiple users by sharing available system resources. Examples of such multiplexing access technologies include Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA), Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA), Frequency Division Multiple Access (FDMA), Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access (OFDMA), Single Carrier Frequency Division Multiple Access (SC-FDMA), and Time Division Synchronous Code Division Multiple Access (TD-SCDMA).

[0004] These multiplexing access technologies have been adopted in various telecommunications standards to provide common protocols that enable different wireless devices to communicate at the city, country, region, and even global levels. An example telecommunications standard is 5G New Radio (NR). 5G NR is part of the Continuous Mobile Broadband Evolution (CMBE) released by the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) to meet new requirements associated with latency, reliability, security, scalability (e.g., with the Internet of Things (IoT),) and other requirements. 5G NR includes services associated with Enhanced Mobile Broadband (eMBB), Massive Machine-Type Communications (mMTC), and Ultra-Reliable Low-Latency Communications (URLLC). Some forms of 5G NR can be based on the 4G Long Term Evolution (LTE) standard. There is a need for further improvements to 5G NR technology. These improvements can also be applied to other multiplexing access technologies and telecommunications standards that adopt them. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The following provides a brief summary of one or more patterns to offer a basic understanding of such patterns. This summary is not an extensive overview of all anticipated patterns, nor is it intended to identify key or important elements of all patterns, nor to illustrate the scope of any or all patterns. Its sole purpose is to provide some concepts of one or more patterns in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that follows.

[0006] In one embodiment of this case, a method, a computer-readable medium, and an apparatus are provided. The apparatus may be a UE. The UE obtains a Random Access Channel (RACH) configuration, wherein the RACH configuration associates a preamble signal with at least one Entity Uplink Shared Channel (PUSCH) timing (PO) for two-step random access, and wherein the PO spans a time interval greater than one time slot.

[0007] In one embodiment of this case, a method, a computer-readable medium, and an apparatus are provided. The apparatus may be a UE. The UE obtains a RACH configuration, wherein the RACH configuration associates a preamble signal with a plurality of POs for two-step random access.

[0008] In one embodiment of this case, a method, a computer-readable medium, and an apparatus are provided. The apparatus may be a UE (User Equipment). The UE obtains a plurality of configurations, each indicating a PO (Program Object) for two-step random access.

[0009] In one embodiment of this case, a method, a computer-readable medium, and an apparatus are provided. The apparatus may be a UE. The UE obtains a configuration indicating a guard band for a two-step random access point (PO), wherein the guard band is indicated in units of subcarriers spanning less than one physical resource block (PRB).

[0010] In one embodiment of this case, a method, a computer-readable medium, and an apparatus are provided. The apparatus may be a base station. The base station provides a RACH configuration in which a preamble signal is associated with at least one Point of Interest (PO) for two-step random access, and wherein the PO spans a time interval greater than one time slot.

[0011] In one embodiment of this case, a method, a computer-readable medium, and an apparatus are provided. The apparatus may be a base station. The base station provides a RACH configuration, wherein the RACH configuration associates a preamble signal with a plurality of post-points (POs) for two-step random access.

[0012] In one embodiment of this case, a method, a computer-readable medium, and an apparatus are provided. The apparatus may be a base station. The base station provides a plurality of configurations, each indicating a PO for two-step random access.

[0013] In one embodiment of this case, a method, a computer-readable medium, and an apparatus are provided. The apparatus may be a base station. The base station provides a configuration indicating a guard band for a two-step random access point (PO), wherein the guard band is indicated in units of subcarriers spanning less than one PRB.

[0014] This application relates in certain aspects to an apparatus for wireless communication. The apparatus may include: a memory containing instructions; and one or more processors configured to execute the instructions. The one or more processors may enable the apparatus to obtain a Random Access Channel (RACH) configuration, wherein the RACH configuration associates a preamble signal with at least one Physical Uplink Shared Channel (PUSCH) timing (PO) for two-step random access, and wherein the PO spans a time interval greater than one time slot. The one or more processors may enable the apparatus to output a repetition of PUSCH data in at least one PO for transmission.

[0015] This application relates in certain aspects to an apparatus for wireless communication. The apparatus may include: a memory containing instructions; and one or more processors configured to execute the instructions. The one or more processors may enable the apparatus to obtain a Random Access Channel (RACH) configuration, wherein the RACH configuration associates a preamble signal with a plurality of Entity Uplink Shared Channel (PUSCH) timings (POs) for two-step random access. The one or more processors may enable the apparatus to output a repetition of PUSCH data in at least one of the plurality of POs for transmission.

[0016] This application relates in certain aspects to an apparatus for wireless communication. The apparatus may include: a memory containing instructions; and one or more processors configured to execute the instructions. The one or more processors may cause the apparatus to output a Random Access Channel (RACH) configuration for transmission, wherein the RACH configuration associates a preamble signal with at least one Physical Uplink Shared Channel (PUSCH) timing (PO) for two-step random access, and wherein the PO spans a time interval greater than one time slot. The one or more processors may cause the apparatus to obtain repetition of PUSCH data at at least one PO.

[0017] This application relates in certain aspects to an apparatus for wireless communication. The apparatus may include: a memory containing instructions; and one or more processors configured to execute the instructions. The one or more processors may cause the apparatus to output a Random Access Channel (RACH) configuration for transmission, wherein the RACH configuration associates a preamble signal with a plurality of Entity Uplink Shared Channel (PUSCH) timings (POs) for two-step random access. The one or more processors may cause the apparatus to obtain a repetition of PUSCH data in at least one of the plurality of POs.

[0018] Certain aspects of this application relate to a method for wireless communication at a user equipment (UE). In some instances, the method includes: obtaining a random access channel (RACH) configuration, wherein the RACH configuration associates a preamble signal with at least one entity uplink shared channel (PUSCH) timing (PO) for two-step random access, and wherein the PO spans a time interval greater than one time slot. In some instances, the method includes: outputting a repetition of PUSCH data in at least one PO for transmission.

[0019] Certain aspects of this application relate to a method for wireless communication at a user equipment (UE). In some instances, the method includes: obtaining a random access channel (RACH) configuration, wherein the RACH configuration associates a preamble signal with a plurality of entity uplink shared channel (PUSCH) timings (POs) for two-step random access. In some instances, the method includes: outputting a repetition of PUSCH data in at least one of the plurality of POs for transmission.

[0020] Certain aspects of this case relate to a method for wireless communication at a base station (BS). In some instances, the method includes: outputting a random access channel (RACH) configuration for transmission, wherein the RACH configuration associates a preamble signal with at least one entity uplink shared channel (PUSCH) timing (PO) for two-step random access, and wherein the PO spans a time interval greater than one time slot. In some instances, the method includes: obtaining repetition of PUSCH data in at least one PO.

[0021] Certain aspects of this case relate to a method for wireless communication at a base station (BS). In some instances, the method includes: outputting a random access channel (RACH) configuration for transmission, wherein the RACH configuration associates a preamble signal with a plurality of entity uplink shared channel (PUSCH) timings (POs) for two-step random access. In some instances, the method includes: obtaining a repetition of PUSCH data in at least one of the plurality of POs.

[0022] Some aspects of this application relate to an apparatus for wireless communication. In some instances, the apparatus includes: a unit for obtaining a Random Access Channel (RACH) configuration, wherein the RACH configuration associates a preamble signal with at least one Physical Uplink Shared Channel (PUSCH) timing (PO) for two-step random access, and wherein the PO spans a time interval greater than one time slot. In some instances, the apparatus includes: a unit for outputting repetitions of PUSCH data in at least one PO for transmission.

[0023] Certain aspects of this application relate to an apparatus for wireless communication. In some instances, the apparatus includes: a unit for obtaining a Random Access Channel (RACH) configuration, wherein the RACH configuration associates a preamble signal with a plurality of Entity Uplink Shared Channel (PUSCH) timings (POs) for two-step random access. In some instances, the apparatus includes: a unit for outputting a repetition of PUSCH data in at least one of the plurality of POs for transmission.

[0024] Some aspects of this application relate to an apparatus for wireless communication. In some instances, the apparatus includes: a unit for outputting a Random Access Channel (RACH) configuration for transmission, wherein the RACH configuration associates a preamble signal with at least one Physical Uplink Shared Channel (PUSCH) timing (PO) for two-step random access, and wherein the PO spans a time interval greater than one time slot. In some instances, the apparatus includes: a unit for obtaining repetition of PUSCH data in at least one PO.

[0025] Some aspects of this application relate to an apparatus for wireless communication. In some instances, the apparatus includes: a unit for outputting a Random Access Channel (RACH) configuration for transmission, wherein the RACH configuration associates a preamble signal with a plurality of Entity Uplink Shared Channel (PUSCH) timings (POs) for two-step random access. In some instances, the apparatus includes: a unit for obtaining a repetition of PUSCH data in at least one of the plurality of POs.

[0026] Some aspects of this case relate to a non-transitory computer-readable medium on which instructions are stored, which, when executed by a device, cause the device to perform operations. In some instances, the operations include: obtaining a Random Access Channel (RACH) configuration, wherein the RACH configuration associates a preamble signal with at least one Physical Uplink Shared Channel (PUSCH) timing (PO) for two-step random access, and wherein the PO spans a time interval greater than one time slot. In some instances, the operations include: outputting a repetition of PUSCH data in at least one PO for transmission.

[0027] Some aspects of this case relate to a non-transitory computer-readable medium on which instructions are stored, which, when executed by a device, cause the device to perform operations. In some instances, the operations include: obtaining a Random Access Channel (RACH) configuration, wherein the RACH configuration associates a preamble signal with a plurality of Entity Uplink Shared Channel (PUSCH) timings (POs) for two-step random access. In some instances, the operations include: outputting a repetition of PUSCH data in at least one of the plurality of POs for transmission.

[0028] Some aspects of this case relate to a non-transitory computer-readable medium on which instructions are stored, which, when executed by a device, cause the device to perform operations. In some instances, the operations include: outputting a random access channel (RACH) configuration for transmission, wherein the RACH configuration associates a preamble signal with at least one entity uplink shared channel (PUSCH) timing (PO) for two-step random access, and wherein the PO spans a time interval greater than one time slot. In some instances, the operations include: obtaining a repetition of PUSCH data in at least one PO.

[0029] Some aspects of this case relate to a non-transitory computer-readable medium on which instructions are stored, which, when executed by a device, cause the device to perform operations. In some instances, the operations include: outputting a random access channel (RACH) configuration for transmission, wherein the RACH configuration associates a preamble signal with a plurality of entity uplink shared channel (PUSCH) timings (POs) for two-step random access. In some instances, the operations include: obtaining a repetition of PUSCH data in at least one of the plurality of POs.

[0030] To achieve the foregoing and related objectives, one or more variants include the features fully described below and specifically pointed out in the claims. The following description and figures illustrate certain illustrative features of one or more variants in detail. However, these features indicate only some of the various ways in which the principles of the various variants can be employed, and the description is intended to include all such variants and their equivalents. Simple Explanation of the Diagram

[0031] Figure 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a wireless communication system and access network.

[0032] Figure 2A is a diagram showing an example of the first message frame for each state according to the content of this case.

[0033] Figure 2B is a diagram showing examples of DL channels within a subframe according to various states of the case.

[0034] Figure 2C is a diagram showing an example of a second message frame for each state according to the content of this case.

[0035] Figure 2D is a diagram illustrating examples of UL channels within a subframe according to various states of the present case.

[0036] Figure 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a base station and user equipment (UE) in an access network.

[0037] Figure 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a PO configured for two-step random access.

[0038] Figure 5 is a diagram illustrating another instance of a PO configured for two-step random access.

[0039] Figure 6 is a diagram showing another instance of a PO configured for two-step random access.

[0040] Figure 7 is a diagram illustrating another instance of a PO configured for two-step random access.

[0041] Figure 8 is a diagram showing another instance of a PO configured for two-step random access.

[0042] Figure 9 is a diagram showing another instance of a PO configured for two-step random access.

[0043] Figure 10 is a diagram showing another instance of a PO configured for two-step random access.

[0044] Figure 11 is a diagram showing another instance of a PO configured for two-step random access.

[0045] Figure 12 is a diagram showing another instance of a PO configured for two-step random access.

[0046] Figure 13 is a flowchart of the dialing process between the UE and the base station.

[0047] Figure 14 is a flowchart of a wireless communication method.

[0048] Figure 15 is a flowchart of a wireless communication method.

[0049] Figure 16 is a flowchart of a wireless communication method.

[0050] Figure 17 is a flowchart of a wireless communication method.

[0051] Figure 18 is a flowchart of a wireless communication method.

[0052] Figure 19 is a flowchart of a wireless communication method.

[0053] Figure 20 is a flowchart of a wireless communication method.

[0054] Figure 21 is a flowchart of a wireless communication method.

[0055] Figure 22 is a diagram illustrating an example of the hardware implementation for the instance device.

[0056] Figure 23 is a diagram illustrating another example of the hardware implementation for another instance device. Implementation

[0057] The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are intended as descriptions of various configurations and are not intended to represent the only configuration in which the concepts described herein can be practiced. Specific details are included in the embodiments for the purpose of providing a comprehensive understanding of the various concepts. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art to which this invention pertains that these concepts can be practiced without these specific details. In some instances, well-known structures and components are illustrated in block diagram form to avoid obscuring such concepts.

[0058] The UE and base station can be part of a non-terrestrial network (NTN). An NTN is a network that involves non-terrestrial flying objects (e.g., satellite communication networks, high-altitude platform systems, air-to-ground networks, etc.). For example, in a satellite communication network, the UE can send uplink data to the base station via an Earth-orbiting satellite and receive downlink data from the base station. The UE can be a very small aperture terminal (VSAT) or a handheld device with high transmit and receive antenna gain.

[0059] Typically, in NTN, it is assumed that the UE includes Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) capabilities. Such capabilities allow the UE to obtain accurate timing advance (TA) based on its location and the ephemeris of the satellites linked to the base station. This TA allows for accurate reception timing at the base station for random access messages from the UE (e.g., messages in four-step and two-step RACH procedures) and other data transmissions. The accuracy of the TA used for random access (e.g., common TA margin) can be within half of the cyclic prefix (CP).

[0060] In a contention-based four-step RACH procedure, four messages can be provided between the UE and the base station. For example, during the initial attachment procedure, the UE can send a preamble signal to the base station (e.g., message 1), receive a Random Access Response (RAR) from the base station (e.g., message 2), send an RRC connection request message or other payload to the base station (e.g., message 3), and receive an RRC connection establishment message or other transmission subject to contention resolution from the base station (e.g., message 4). This four-step RACH procedure can be simplified to a two-step RACH procedure, in which the UE sends the preamble signal and payload in the first message. For example, message A ("msgA") in the two-step RACH procedure can correspond to messages 1 and 3 in the four-step RACH procedure, and message B ("msgB") can correspond to messages 2 and 4 in the four-step RACH procedure. Therefore, in the two-step RACH procedure, the UE can send a preamble signal to the base station in the msgA transmission, followed by the payload, while the base station can send RAR and RRC response messages to the UE in the msgB transmission. In NTN, the preamble signal, payload, RAR, and response messages can be transmitted between the UE and the base station via satellite or other non-terrestrial nodes.

[0061] Therefore, compared to the four-step RACH procedure, the two-step RACH procedure can significantly reduce latency by reducing the number of messages transmitted between the UE and the base station. This effect of reduced latency is particularly evident in NTNs, where communication via non-terrestrial nodes (e.g., satellites) typically results in higher latency than in other networks. However, in the case of msgA retransmission, the two-step RACH procedure can lead to high administrative overhead. For example, if the base station fails to decode the msgA PUSCH data (even though it successfully decoded the msgA preamble), the base station can send a rollback RAR message. In response to this rollback RAR message, the UE retransmits the entire msgA (including the preamble and PUSCH data). Similarly, if the UE fails to decode the success RAR message indicating that the base station successfully decoded the msgA PUSCH data, the UE can also retransmit the entire msgA. Therefore, regardless of whether the base station successfully receives the RAR, msgA retransmission can generally lead to high administrative overhead. Furthermore, in the case of smartphone UEs, each retransmitted msgA may include PUSCH repetition for coverage enhancement, further increasing the management burden. Additionally, two-step random access can be more restricted than four-step random access (e.g., two-step RACH generally only supports in-slot PUSCH frequency hopping).

[0062] Therefore, decoupling the preamble signal repetition from the PUSCH repetition in msgA and allowing for more flexible repetition schemes will help improve the efficiency of the two-step RACH procedure. Allowing the demodulation reference signal (DMRS) to accompany or hop frequency (e.g., between time slots) for msgA PUSCH data will also be helpful. The various forms of this work, based on the preamble signal-to-PO mapping, provide coverage enhancement and support for repetition, frequency hopping, and antenna switching during msgA transmission (including in NTN).

[0063] Various apparatuses and methods will now be used to provide several embodiments of a telecommunications system. These apparatuses and methods will be described in the following embodiments and illustrated in the accompanying drawings by means of various blocks, components, circuits, programs, algorithms, etc. (collectively referred to as "elements"). These elements can be implemented using electronic hardware, computer software, or any combination thereof. Whether such elements are implemented as hardware or software depends on the specific application and the design constraints imposed on the overall system.

[0064] For example, an element, or any part of an element, or any combination of elements, can be implemented as a "processing system" comprising one or more processors. Examples of processors include microprocessors, microcontrollers, graphics processing units (GPUs), central processing units (CPUs), application processors, digital signal processors (DSPs), reduced instruction set computing (RISC) processors, system-on-a-chip (SoCs), baseband processors, field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), state machines, gate logic, individual hardware circuits, and other suitable hardware configured to perform the various functions described herein. One or more processors in a processing system can execute software. Whether referred to as software, firmware, middleware, microcode, hardware description language, or other names, software should be broadly interpreted as meaning instructions, instruction sets, code, code fragments, code, programs, subprograms, software components, applications, software applications, software packages, conventions, sub-conventions, objects, executable files, threads of execution, programs, functions, etc.

[0065] Accordingly, in one or more exemplary embodiments, the described functionality may be implemented in hardware, software, or any combination thereof. If implemented in software, the functionality may be stored on a computer-readable medium or encoded as one or more instructions or codes on a computer-readable medium. Computer-readable media includes computer storage media. Storage media may be any available media accessible by a computer. By way of example, and not limitation, such computer-readable media may include random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), electronically erasable programmable ROM (EEPROM), optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage, other magnetic storage devices, combinations of computer-readable media of the types described above, or any other media capable of storing computer-executable code accessible by a computer in the form of instructions or data structures.

[0066] Figure 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a wireless communication system and access network 100. The wireless communication system (also referred to as a wireless wide area network (WWAN)) includes a base station 102, a user equipment (UE) 104, an evolved packet core (EPC) 160, and another core network 190 (e.g., a 5G core (5GC)). The base station 102 may include macrocells (high-power cellular base stations) and / or small cells (low-power cellular base stations). Macrocells include base stations. Small cells include femtocells, picocells, and microcells.

[0067] Base station 102 configured for 4G Long Term Evolution (LTE) (collectively referred to as Evolved Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) Terrestrial Radio Access Network (E-UTRAN)) can interface with EPC 160 via a first backhaul link 132 (e.g., S1 interface). Base station 102 configured for 5G New Radio (NR) (collectively referred to as Next Generation RAN (NG-RAN)) can interface with core network 190 via a second backhaul link 184. Among other functions, base station 102 can perform one or more of the following functions: transmission of user data, radio channel encryption and decryption, integrity protection, header compression, mobility control functions (e.g., handover, dual connectivity), inter-cell interference coordination, connection establishment and release, load balancing, distribution of Non-Access Layer (NAS) messages, NAS node selection, synchronization, Radio Access Network (RAN) sharing, Multimedia Broadcast Multicast Service (MBMS), user and device tracking, RAN Information Management (RIM), paging, location, and delivery of warning messages. Base stations 102 can communicate directly or indirectly with each other on a third backhaul link 134 (e.g., an X2 interface) (e.g., via EPC 160 or core network 190). The first backhaul link 132, the second backhaul link 184, and the third backhaul link 134 can be wired or wireless.

[0068] Base station 102 can communicate wirelessly with UE 104. Each of base stations 102 can provide communication coverage for a corresponding geographic coverage area 110. Overlapping geographic coverage areas 110 may exist. For example, a small cell 102' may have a coverage area 110' that overlaps with the coverage areas 110 of one or more macro base stations 102. A network including both small cells and macro cells can be referred to as a heterogeneous network. A heterogeneous network may also include a Home Evolutionary Node B (eNB) (HeNB), which can provide services to a restricted group called a Closed Subscriber Group (CSG). The communication link 120 between base station 102 and UE 104 may include uplink (UL) (also referred to as reverse link) transmission from UE 104 to base station 102 and / or downlink (DL) (also referred to as forward link) transmission from base station 102 to UE 104. Communication link 120 may use multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) antenna technology, including spatial multiplexing, beamforming, and / or transmit diversity. The communication link may be via one or more carriers. Base station 102 / UE 104 may use a spectrum of up to Y MHz (e.g., 5, 10, 15, 20, 100, 400 MHz) bandwidth per carrier allocated in carrier aggregation for transmission in each direction. Carriers may be adjacent to each other or may not be adjacent to each other. Carrier allocation may be asymmetric with respect to DL and UL (e.g., more or fewer carriers may be allocated for DL ​​than for UL). Component carriers may include primary component carriers and one or more secondary component carriers. The primary component carrier may be referred to as the primary cell (PCell), and the secondary component carriers may be referred to as secondary cells (SCells).

[0069] Some UEs 104 can communicate with each other using device-to-device (D2D) communication links 158. D2D communication links 158 can use DL / UL WWAN spectrum. D2D communication links 158 can use one or more sideline channels, such as the Physical Sideline Broadcast Channel (PSBCH), Physical Sideline Discovery Channel (PSDCH), Physical Sideline Shared Channel (PSSCH), and Physical Sideline Control Channel (PSCCH). D2D communication can be via a variety of wireless D2D communication systems, such as WiMedia, Bluetooth, ZigBee, Wi-Fi based on the IEEE 802.11 standard, LTE, or NR.

[0070] The wireless communication system may also include a Wi-Fi access point (AP) 150 that communicates with a Wi-Fi station (STA) 152 via a communication link 154, for example, in an unlicensed spectrum of 5 GHz. When communicating in unlicensed spectrum, the STA 152 / AP 150 may perform an idle channel assessment (CCA) before communication to determine whether the channel is available.

[0071] The small cell 102' can operate in licensed and / or unlicensed spectrum. When operating in unlicensed spectrum, the small cell 102' can employ NR and use the same unlicensed spectrum (e.g., 5 GHz, etc.) as the unlicensed spectrum used by the Wi-Fi AP 150. Employing NR in unlicensed spectrum can improve coverage of the access network and / or increase the capacity of the access network.

[0072] The electromagnetic spectrum is typically subdivided into various categories, bands, channels, etc., based on frequency / wavelength. In 5G NR, the two initial operating bands have been designated as frequency range names FR1 (410 MHz - 7.125 GHz) and FR2 (24.25 GHz - 52.6 GHz). Frequencies between FR1 and FR2 are generally referred to as mid-band frequencies. Although a portion of FR1 is greater than 6 GHz, in various documents and articles, FR1 is often (interchangeably) referred to as the "sub-6 GHz" band. Similar naming issues sometimes arise regarding FR2; although FR2 differs from the extremely high frequency (EHF) band (30 GHz - 300 GHz), it is often (interchangeably) referred to in documents and articles as the "millimeter wave" band, which is designated as the "millimeter wave" band by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).

[0073] In light of the above, unless otherwise specifically stated, it should be understood that the terms "sub-6 GHz" and the like (if used herein) can broadly refer to frequencies that are less than 6 GHz, within FR1, or may include intermediate frequency bands. Furthermore, unless otherwise specifically stated, it should be understood that the terms "millimeter wave" and the like (if used herein) can broadly refer to frequencies that may include intermediate frequency bands, within FR2, or within the EHF band.

[0074] Base station 102 (whether a small cell 102' or a large cell (e.g., a macro base station)) may include and / or be referred to as an eNB, gNodeB (gNB), or another type of base station. Some base stations (such as gNB 180) may operate in the conventional sub-6 GHz spectrum, in millimeter wave frequencies, and / or near-millimeter wave frequencies to communicate with UE 104. When gNB 180 operates in millimeter wave or near-millimeter wave frequencies, gNB 180 may be referred to as a millimeter wave base station. Millimeter wave base station 180 may utilize beamforming 182 with UE 104 to compensate for path loss and short range. Base station 180 and UE 104 may each include multiple antennas (such as antenna elements, antenna panels, and / or antenna arrays) to facilitate beamforming.

[0075] Base station 180 can transmit beamformed signals to UE 104 in one or more transmit directions 182'. UE 104 can receive beamformed signals from base station 180 in one or more receive directions 182''. UE 104 can also transmit beamformed signals to base station 180 in one or more transmit directions. Base station 180 can receive beamformed signals from UE 104 in one or more receive directions. Base station 180 / UE 104 can perform beam training to determine the optimal receive and transmit directions for each of base station 180 / UE 104. The transmit and receive directions for base station 180 can be the same or different. The transmit and receive directions for UE 104 can be the same or different.

[0076] EPC 160 may include a Mobility Management Entity (MME) 162, other MMEs 164, a Serving Gateway 166, an MBMS Gateway 168, a Broadcast Multicast Service Center (BM-SC) 170, and a Packet Data Network (PDN) Gateway 172. MME 162 can communicate with the Home Subscriber Server (HSS) 174. MME 162 is the control node that handles signal transfer between UE 104 and EPC 160. Typically, MME 162 provides bearer and connection management. All user Internet Protocol (IP) packets are transmitted via Serving Gateway 166, which is itself connected to PDN Gateway 172. PDN Gateway 172 provides IP address allocation and other functions to the UE. PDN Gateway 172 and BM-SC 170 are connected to IP Serving Gateway 176. IP service 176 may include the Internet, intranet, IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS), PS streaming service, and / or other IP services. BM-SC 170 can provide functions for MBMS user service provisioning and delivery. BM-SC 170 can be used as an entry point for MBMS transmission to content providers, can be used to authorize and initiate MBMS bearer services within the Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN), and can be used to schedule MBMS transmissions. MBMS gateway 168 can be used to distribute MBMS transmissions to base stations 102 belonging to the Multicast-Broadcast Single Frequency Network (MBSFN) area that broadcasts specific services, and can be responsible for communication period management (start / stop) and collection of billing information related to eMBMS.

[0077] Core network 190 may include Access and Mobility Management Functions (AMF) 192, other AMFs 193, Term Management Functions (SMF) 194, and User Plane Functions (UPF) 195. AMF 192 may communicate with Unified Data Management (UDM) 196. AMF 192 is the control node that handles signaling between UE 104 and core network 190. Typically, AMF 192 provides Quality of Service (QoS) streaming and term management. All user IP packets are transmitted via UPF 195. UPF 195 provides IP address allocation and other functions to the UE. UPF 195 connects to IP services 197. IP services 197 may include the Internet, intranet, IMS, packet switching (PS) streaming services, and / or other IP services.

[0078] A base station may include and / or be referred to as a gNB, Node B, eNB, access point, base station transceiver, radio base station, radio transceiver, transceiver function, Basic Services Set (BSS), Extended Services Set (ESS), Transmitter Receiver Point (TRP), or some other suitable term. Base station 102 provides access to EPC 160 or core network 190 for UE 104. Examples of UE 104 include cellular phones, smartphones, conversation initiation protocol (SIP) phones, laptops, personal digital assistants (PDAs), satellite radio units, global positioning systems, multimedia devices, video devices, digital audio players (e.g., MP3 players), cameras, game consoles, tablets, smart devices, wearable devices, vehicles, meters, air pumps, large or small kitchen appliances, healthcare devices, implants, sensors / actuators, displays, or any other similarly functional device. Some UE 104 devices may be referred to as IoT devices (e.g., parking meters, air pumps, ovens, vehicles, heart monitors, etc.). UE 104 may also be referred to as a station, mobile station, user station, mobile unit, user unit, radio unit, remote unit, mobile device, radio device, wireless communication device, remote device, mobile user station, access terminal, mobile terminal, radio terminal, remote terminal, handheld device, user agent, mobile service client, client, or some other suitable term.

[0079] Although this case may focus on 5G NR, the concepts and various forms described herein can be applied to other similar fields, such as LTE, improved LTE (LTE-A), Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA), Mobile World Congress (GSM), or other wireless / radio access technologies.

[0080] Referring again to Figure 1, in some configurations, UE 104 may include a UE two-step RACH component 198 configured to obtain a RACH configuration that associates a preamble signal with at least one Point of Purchase (PO) for two-step random access, wherein the PO spans a time interval greater than one time slot. Component 198 may alternatively or supplementally be configured to obtain a RACH configuration that associates a preamble signal with a plurality of POs for two-step random access. Component 198 may alternatively or supplementally be configured to obtain a plurality of configurations, each indicating a PO for two-step random access. Component 198 may alternatively or supplementally be configured to obtain a guard band indicating the POs for two-step random access, wherein the guard band is indicated in units of subcarriers spanning less than one PRB.

[0081] Referring again to Figure 1, in some configurations, base station 102 / 180 may include a BS two-step RACH component 199 configured to provide a RACH configuration that associates a preamble signal with at least one PO for two-step random access, and wherein the PO spans a time interval greater than one time slot. Component 199 may alternatively or supplementally be configured to provide a RACH configuration that associates a preamble signal with a plurality of POs for two-step random access. Component 199 may alternatively or supplementally be configured to provide a plurality of configurations, each indicating a PO for two-step random access. Component 199 may alternatively or supplementally be configured to provide a configuration indicating a guard band for the POs for two-step random access, wherein the guard band is indicated in units of subcarriers spanning less than one PRB.

[0082] Figure 2A is Figure 200, showing an example of a first sub-frame within a 5G NR frame structure. Figure 2B is Figure 230, showing an example of a DL channel within a 5G NR sub-frame. Figure 2C is Figure 250, showing an example of a second sub-frame within a 5G NR frame structure. Figure 2D is Figure 280, showing an example of a UL channel within a 5G NR sub-frame. The 5G NR frame structure can be Frequency Division Duplex (FDD) (where sub-frames within a specific set of subcarriers (carrier system bandwidth) are dedicated to either DL or UL), or it can be Time Division Duplex (TDD) (where sub-frames within a specific set of subcarriers (carrier system bandwidth) are dedicated to both DL and UL). In the examples provided by Figures 2A and 2C, the 5G NR frame structure is assumed to be TDD, where subframe 4 is configured with slot format 28 (most of which are DL), where D is DL, U is UL, and F is flexible between DL / UL, and subframe 3 is configured with slot format 34 (most of which are UL). Although subframes 3 and 4 are shown with slot formats 34 and 28 respectively, any particular subframe can be configured with any of the various available slot formats 0-61. Slot formats 0 and 1 are full DL and full UL, respectively. Other slot formats 2-61 include a mixture of DL, UL, and flexible symbols. The UE is configured with a slot format via the received Slot Format Indicator (SFI) (dynamically configured via DL Control Information (DCI) or semi-statically / statically configured via Radio Resource Control (RRC) signaling). Note that the following description also applies to the 5G NR frame structure as TDD.

[0083] Other wireless communication technologies can have different frame structures and / or different channels. For example, a 10-millisecond (ms) frame can be divided into 10 equal-sized sub-frames (1 ms). Each sub-frame can include one or more time slots. Sub-frames can also include micro-time slots, which can include 7, 4, or 2 symbols. Each time slot can include 7 or 14 symbols, depending on the time slot configuration. For time slot configuration 0, each time slot can include 14 symbols, while for time slot configuration 1, each time slot can include 7 symbols. Symbols on the DL can be Cyclic Prefix (CP) Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) (CP-OFDM) symbols. Symbols on the UL can be CP-OFDM symbols (for high-throughput scenarios) or Discrete Fourier Transform (DFT) Extended OFDM (DFT-s-OFDM) symbols (also known as Single Carrier Frequency Division Multiple Access (SC-FDMA) symbols) (for power-constrained scenarios; limited to a single stream transmission). The number of slots per subframe can be based on the slot configuration and the digital scheme (numerology). For slot configuration 0, different digital schemes µ0 to 4 allow 1, 2, 4, 8, and 16 slots per subframe, respectively. For slot configuration 1, different digital schemes 0 to 2 allow 2, 4, and 8 slots per subframe, respectively. Accordingly, for slot configuration 0 and digital scheme µ, there are 14 symbols / slots and 2 µ slots / subframe. The subcarrier spacing and symbol length / duration are functions of the digital scheme. The subcarrier spacing can be equal to... kilohertz (kHz), of which These are digital schemes 0 through 4. Accordingly, digital scheme µ=0 has a subcarrier spacing of 15 kHz, and digital scheme µ=4 has a subcarrier spacing of 240 kHz. The symbol length / duration is negatively correlated with the subcarrier spacing. Figures 2A-2D provide examples of slot configuration 0 with 14 symbols per slot and digital scheme µ=2 with 4 slots per subframe. The slot duration is 0.25 ms, the subcarrier spacing is 60 kHz, and the symbol duration is approximately 16.67 µs. Within a frame set, one or more different bandwidth portions (BWPs) can exist that can be frequency-division multiplexed (see Figure 2B). Each BWP can have a specific digital scheme.

[0084] A resource grid can be used to represent the frame structure. Each time slot includes a resource block (RB) (also known as a physical RB (PRB)), which extends 12 consecutive subcarriers. The resource grid is divided into multiple resource elements (REs). The number of bits carried via each RE depends on the modulation scheme.

[0085] As shown in Figure 2A, some REs carry reference (pilot) signals (RS) for the UE. RS may include a demodulation RS (DM-RS) for channel estimation at the UE (indicated as R x for a specific configuration, where 100x is the port number, but other DM-RS configurations are possible) and a channel state information reference signal (CSI-RS). RS may also include beam measurement RS (BRS), beam refinement RS (BRRS), and phase tracking RS (PT-RS).

[0086] Figure 2B illustrates examples of various DL channels within a subframe of a frame. The Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH) carries the DCI within one or more Control Channel Elements (CCEs). Each CCE includes nine RE Groups (REGs), and each REG includes four consecutive REs within an OFDM symbol. The PDCCH within a BWP can be referred to as a Control Resource Set (CORESET). Additional BWPs can be located at larger and / or lower frequencies across the channel bandwidth. The Primary Synchronization Signal (PSS) can be located within symbol 2 of a specific subframe of the frame. The PSS is used by the UE 104 to determine subframe / symbol timing and physical layer identification. The Secondary Synchronization Signal (SSS) can be located within symbol 4 of a specific subframe of the frame. The SSS is used by the UE to determine the Physical Layer Cell Identifier Group Number and radio frame timing. Based on the Physical Layer Identifier and Physical Layer Cell Identifier Group Number, the UE can determine the Physical Cell Identifier (PCI). Based on the PCI, the UE can determine the location of the aforementioned DM-RS. The Physical Broadcast Channel (PBCH) (which carries the Master Information Block (MIB)) can be logically packetized with the PSS and SSS to form a Synchronization Signal (SS) / PBCH block (also known as an SS block (SSB)). The MIB provides the number of Relay Blocks (RBs) in the system bandwidth and the System Frame Number (SFN). The Physical Downlink Shared Channel (PDSCH) carries user data, broadcast system information not transmitted via the PBCH (such as the System Information Block (SIB)), and paging messages.

[0087] As shown in Figure 2C, some REs in the REs carry DM-RS for channel estimation at the base station (indicated as R for a specific configuration, but other DM-RS configurations are possible). The UE can transmit DM-RS for the Physical Uplink Control Channel (PUCCH) and DM-RS for the Physical Uplink Shared Channel (PUSCH). PUSCH DM-RS can be transmitted in the first one or two symbols preceding the PUSCH. PUCCH DM-RS can be transmitted in different configurations depending on whether a short or long PUCCH is transmitted and depending on the specific PUCCH format used. The UE can transmit a Sound Reference Signal (SRS). The SRS can be transmitted in the last symbol of a subframe. The SRS can have a comb structure, and the UE can transmit the SRS on one of these combs. The SRS can be used by the base station for channel quality estimation to enable frequency-dependent scheduling on the UL.

[0088] Figure 2D illustrates examples of various UL channels within sub-frames of a frame. The PUCCH can be positioned as indicated in one configuration. The PUCCH carries uplink control information (UCI), such as scheduling requests, channel quality indicators (CQI), precoding matrix indicators (PMI), rank indicators (RI), and hybrid automatic repeat request (HARQ) acknowledgment (ACK) / non-acknowledgment (NACK) feedback. The PUCCH carries data and may also be used to carry buffer status reports (BSR), power headroom reports (PHR), and / or UCI.

[0089] Figure 3 is a block diagram illustrating communication between base station 310 and UE 350 in the access network. In the DL, IP packets from EPC 160 can be provided to controller / processor 375. Controller / processor 375 implements Layer 3 and Layer 2 functions. Layer 3 includes the Radio Resource Control (RRC) layer, and Layer 2 includes the Service Data Adaptation Protocol (SDAP) layer, Packet Data Convergence Protocol (PDCP) layer, Radio Link Control (RLC) layer, and Media Access Control (MAC) layer. The controller / processor 375 provides: RRC layer functions associated with: broadcasting system information (e.g., MIB, SIB), RRC connection control (e.g., RRC connection paging, RRC connection establishment, RRC connection modification, and RRC connection release), inter-Radio Access Technology (RAT) mobility, and measurement configuration for UE measurement reports; PDCP layer functions associated with: header compression / decompression, security (encryption, decryption, integrity protection, integrity verification), and handover support functions; RLC layer functions associated with: transmission of upper-layer packet data units (PDUs), error correction via ARQ, concatenation, segmentation and reassembly of RLC service data units (SDUs), resegmentation of RLC data PDUs, and reordering of RLC data PDUs; and MAC layer functions associated with: mapping between logical channels and transport channels, multiplexing of MAC SDUs to transport blocks (TBs), and MAC... SDU handles demultiplexing from TB, schedules information reports, performs error correction via HARQ, prioritizes processes, and prioritizes logical channels.

[0090] Transmit (TX) processor 316 and receive (RX) processor 370 implement Layer 1 functions associated with various signal processing functions. Layer 1 (which includes the physical (PHY) layer) may include error detection of the transmission channel, forward error correction (FEC) decoding / decoding of the transmission channel, interleaving, rate matching, mapping to the physical channel, modulation / demodulation of the physical channel, and MIMO antenna processing. TX processor 316 processes the mapping to the signal cluster based on various modulation schemes (e.g., binary phase-shift keying (BPSK), quadrature phase-shift keying (QPSK), M-phase keying (M-PSK), M-quadrature amplitude modulation (M-QAM)). Subsequently, the decoded and modulated symbols can be divided into parallel streams. Each stream can then be mapped to an OFDM subcarrier, multiplexed with a reference signal (e.g., a pilot signal) in the time and / or frequency domains, and subsequently combined using inverse fast Fourier transform (IFFT) to produce a physical channel carrying a stream of time-domain OFDM symbols. The OFDM stream is spatially precoded to generate multiple spatial streams. Channel estimates from channel estimator 374 can be used to determine decoding and modulation schemes, as well as for spatial processing. Channel estimates can be derived from reference signals transmitted by UE 350 and / or channel status feedback. Each spatial stream is then provided to a different antenna 320 via a separate transmitter 318TX. Each transmitter 318TX can use the corresponding spatial stream to modulate an RF carrier for transmission.

[0091] At UE 350, each receiver 354RX receives a signal via its corresponding antenna 352. Each receiver 354RX recovers the information modulated onto the RF carrier and provides that information to the receive (RX) processor 356. The TX processor 368 and RX processor 356 implement Layer 1 functions associated with various signal processing functions. The RX processor 356 can perform spatial processing on the information to recover any spatial stream destined for UE 350. If multiple spatial streams are destined for UE 350, the RX processor 356 can combine them into a single OFDM symbol stream. Subsequently, the RX processor 356 uses a Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) to transform the OFDM symbol stream from the time domain to the frequency domain. The frequency domain signal consists of a separate OFDM symbol stream for each subcarrier of the OFDM signal. The symbols on each subcarrier, along with the reference signal, are recovered and demodulated by determining the most probable signal clustering point transmitted by base station 310. These soft decisions can be based on channel estimates calculated by channel estimator 358. Subsequently, the soft decision is decoded and deinterleaved to recover the data and control signals originally transmitted by base station 310 on the physical channel. The data and control signals are then provided to controller / processor 359, which implements layer 3 and layer 2 functions.

[0092] The controller / processor 359 may be associated with memory 360, which stores code and data. Memory 360 may be referred to as computer-readable media. In UL, the controller / processor 359 provides demultiplexing, packet reassembly, decryption, header decompression, and control signal processing between the transmission and logic channels to recover IP packets from the EPC 160. The controller / processor 359 is also responsible for error detection using ACK and / or NACK protocols to support HARQ operation.

[0093] Similar to the functions described in conjunction with DL transmissions performed by base station 310, controller / processor 359 provides: RRC layer functions associated with: system information (e.g., MIB, SIB) acquisition, RRC connection, and measurement reporting; PDCP layer functions associated with: header compression / decompression and security (encryption, decryption, integrity protection, integrity verification); RLC layer functions associated with: transmission of upper-layer PDUs, error correction via ARQ, concatenation, segmentation, and reassembly of RLC SDUs, resegmentation of RLC data PDUs, and reordering of RLC data PDUs; and MAC layer functions associated with: mapping between logical channels and transport channels, multiplexing of MAC SDUs to TBs, demultiplexing of MAC SDUs from TBs, scheduling information reporting, error correction via HARQ, priority processing, and logical channel prioritization.

[0094] The channel estimate derived by the channel estimator 358 from the reference signal or feedback transmitted by the base station 310 can be used by the TX processor 368 to select an appropriate decoding and modulation scheme, as well as to facilitate spatial processing. The spatial stream generated by the TX processor 368 can be provided to different antennas 352 via a separate transmitter 354TX. Each transmitter 354TX can use the corresponding spatial stream to modulate the RF carrier for transmission.

[0095] At base station 310, UL transmissions are processed in a manner similar to that described in conjunction with the receiver function at UE 350. Each receiver 318RX receives signals via its corresponding antenna 320. Each receiver 318RX recovers the information modulated onto the RF carrier and provides that information to the RX processor 370.

[0096] The controller / processor 375 may be associated with memory 376 storing code and data. Memory 376 may be referred to as computer-readable media. In UL, the controller / processor 375 provides demultiplexing, packet reassembly, decryption, header decompression, and control signal processing between the transmission and logic channels to recover IP packets from the UE 350. IP packets from the controller / processor 375 can be provided to the EPC 160. The controller / processor 375 is also responsible for error detection using ACK and / or NACK protocols to support HARQ operation.

[0097] At least one of the TX processor 368, RX processor 356, and controller / processor 359 can be configured to perform a state related to the UE two-step RACH component 198 of FIG1.

[0098] At least one of the TX processor 316, RX processor 370, and controller / processor 375 can be configured to perform a state related to the BS two-step RACH component 199 of FIG1.

[0099] The UE and base station can be part of a non-terrestrial network (NTN). An NTN is a network that involves non-terrestrial flying objects (e.g., satellite communication networks, high-altitude platform systems, air-to-ground networks, etc.). For example, in a satellite communication network, the UE can send uplink data to the base station via an Earth-orbiting satellite and receive downlink data from the base station. The UE can be a very small aperture terminal (VSAT) or a handheld device with high transmit and receive antenna gain.

[0100] Typically, in NTN, it is assumed that the UE includes Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) capabilities. Such capabilities allow the UE to obtain accurate timing advance (TA) based on its location and the ephemeris of the satellites linked to the base station. This TA allows for accurate reception timing at the base station for random access messages from the UE (e.g., messages in four-step and two-step RACH procedures) and other data transmissions. The accuracy of the TA used for random access (e.g., common TA margin) can be within half of the cyclic prefix (CP). OFDM transmissions from multiple UEs can be aligned at the satellites or base station and maintain orthogonality.

[0101] In a contention-based four-step RACH procedure, four messages can be provided between the UE and the base station. For example, during the initial attachment procedure, the UE can send a preamble signal to the base station (e.g., message 1), receive a Random Access Response (RAR) from the base station (e.g., message 2), send an RRC connection request message or other payload to the base station (e.g., message 3), and receive an RRC connection establishment message or other transmission subject to contention resolution from the base station (e.g., message 4). This four-step RACH procedure can be simplified to a two-step RACH procedure, in which the UE sends the preamble signal and payload in the first message. For example, message A ("msgA") in the two-step RACH procedure can correspond to messages 1 and 3 in the four-step RACH procedure, and message B ("msgB") can correspond to messages 2 and 4 in the four-step RACH procedure. Therefore, in the two-step RACH procedure, the UE can send a preamble signal to the base station in the msgA transmission, followed by the payload, while the base station can send RAR and RRC response messages to the UE in the msgB transmission. In NTN, the preamble signal, payload, RAR, and response messages can be transmitted between the UE and the base station via satellite or other non-terrestrial nodes.

[0102] To configure PUSCH transmission in a two-step random access, the base station can map each preamble signal to a single PUSCH opportunity (PO). A PO represents the time and frequency resources in which the UE can transmit PUSCH data (e.g., msgA PUSCH data). A PO differs from a RACH opportunity (RO), which represents the time and frequency resources in which the UE can transmit preamble signals (e.g., msgA preamble signal). Different preamble signals can be mapped to different POs individually. Generally, a PO spans the maximum time interval of a time slot. Furthermore, each PO is separated from each other in the time domain by guard time and / or in the frequency domain by guard band.

[0103] Figure 4 illustrates an example 400 of PO 402 configured for two-step RACH. PO 402 can be arranged in frequency-first, then time order. Each PO 402 can span a time interval of up to one time slot. Furthermore, different POs can be separated from each other in frequency via guard band 404 and in time via guard time 406. Additionally, the number of POs that can be configured for different preceding signals or ROs can be limited to the number of msgA PUSCH time slots 408 configured for two-step random access.

[0104] Initially, the UE can select and transmit a preamble signal 410 in RO 412. RO 412 can be arranged in frequency-first, then time order, and the ROs can be time-domain offset 414 before the PO. The UE can transmit one of multiple preamble signals (e.g., one of 64 preamble signals), where one or more preamble signals can occupy each RO. For example, the UE can transmit msgA preamble signal 1 to the base station in RO1, msgA preamble signal 2 to the base station in RO2, or transmit another preamble signal in another RO or the same RO. Preamble signals can also be different preamble signal groups. For example, preamble signals 1, 2, 3, and 4 can be in one configured preamble signal group (e.g., preamble signal group A), while other preamble signals can be in another configured preamble signal group (e.g., preamble signal group B). After sending the selected preamble signal, the UE can send PUSCH data in PO 402 mapped to the sent preamble signal. For example, if the UE sends msgA preamble signal 1 in RO1, the UE can send msgA PUSCH data in PO1 (the PO corresponding to RO1), and if the UE sends msgA preamble signal 2 in RO2, the UE can send msgA PUSCH data in PO2 (the PO corresponding to RO2). After the base station receives msgA including the preamble signal and PUSCH data, the base station can send msgB to the UE and complete random access.

[0105] Therefore, compared to the four-step RACH procedure, the two-step RACH procedure can significantly reduce latency by reducing the number of messages transmitted between the UE and the base station. This effect of reduced latency is particularly evident in NTNs, where communication via non-terrestrial nodes (e.g., satellites) typically results in higher latency than in other networks. However, in the case of msgA retransmission, the two-step RACH procedure can lead to high administrative overhead. For example, if the base station fails to decode the msgA PUSCH data (even though the msgA preamble signal was successfully decoded), the base station can send a rollback RAR message. In response to this rollback RAR message, the UE retransmits the entire msgA (including the preamble signal and PUSCH data). Similarly, if the UE fails to decode the success RAR message indicating that the base station successfully decoded the msgA PUSCH data, the UE can also retransmit the entire msgA. Therefore, regardless of whether the base station successfully receives the RAR, msgA retransmission can generally lead to high administrative overhead. Furthermore, in the case of smartphone UEs, each retransmitted msgA may include PUSCH repetition for coverage enhancement, further increasing the management burden. Additionally, two-step RACH can be more restricted than four-step RACH (e.g., two-step RACH generally only supports in-slot PUSCH frequency hopping). Therefore, decoupling the preceding signal repetition from the PUSCH repetition in msgA and allowing for more flexible repetition schemes will help improve the efficiency of the two-step RACH procedure. Allowing the demodulation reference signal (DMRS) for msgA PUSCH data to accompany or hop (e.g., between time slots) will also be helpful.

[0106] Therefore, the various states in this case, based on the preceding signal to PO mapping, provide coverage enhancement and support for repetition, frequency hopping, and antenna switching during msgA transmission (including in NTN). The first state is described below with respect to Figures 5-10, the second state with respect to Figure 11, and the third state with respect to Figure 12. Each state can be implemented independently of any other state or in combination with any other state.

[0107] Referring to the first state example, in one instance, the base station (or network) can instruct the UE to perform a two-step RACH configuration that maps a preamble signal to a "giant" PO and an associated DMRS sequence for that PO. As used herein, a giant PO is a single PO that includes time and frequency resources of multiple general POs. For example, referring to FIG4, one of the preamble signals 410 can be mapped to a single PO that includes time and frequency resources referenced via PO1, PO5, and PO7. Thus, the resources in PO1, PO5, and PO7 can constitute a single giant PO. Similarly, another preamble signal can be mapped to another PO that includes a combination of other time and frequency resources (e.g., referenced via PO3, PO6, and PO8). Each giant PO can span a time interval of more than one time slot. Alternatively, each giant PO can span at most one time slot. The frequency (e.g., starting frequency and frequency range) of each giant PO may change from time slot to time slot or from symbol to symbol.

[0108] In another instance, the base station (or network) may instruct the UE to perform a two-step RACH configuration that maps preamble signals to a set of Points of Interest (POs) and an associated set of DMRS sequences (one DMRS sequence per PO). For example, referring to FIG4, one preamble signal 410 of preamble signals 410 may be mapped to a set of POs including time and frequency resources referenced via PO1, PO5, and PO7, while another preamble signal in the preamble may be mapped to another set of POs including time and frequency resources referenced via PO3, PO6, and PO8. Each PO in the set may be defined by a pattern that includes at least one of the following: the start time position of the PO, the time interval of the PO, the start frequency of the PO, and / or the frequency interval of the PO.

[0109] Figure 5 illustrates an instance 500 of a PO configured for two-step random access. The RACH configuration can instruct a mapping of preamble signals to POs such that each preamble signal is associated with a single PO 502 (e.g., a mega PO encompassing time intervals spanning more than one time slot), or with multiple POs 504 (e.g., a set of POs). For example, the RACH configuration can associate a preamble signal (e.g., preamble signal 1) transmitted in an RO (e.g., RO1) with one or more POs referenced via PO1, and another preamble signal (e.g., preamble signal 2) transmitted in that RO with one or more POs referenced via PO2, etc. The RACH configuration can also instruct the start time 506 of each PO 502, 504, the time interval 508 of each PO 502, 504, the start frequency 510 of each PO 502, 504, and the frequency span 512 of each PO 502, 504. In one instance, the starting frequency 510 of different POs 502 and 504 can be changed from slot to slot or from symbol to symbol (e.g., as shown in Figure 5). In another instance, the frequency span 512 of different POs 502 and 504 can be changed from slot to slot or from symbol to symbol.

[0110] Furthermore, the two-step RACH configuration may include a DMRS configuration associated with a giant PO or set of POs. In one instance, the DMRS configuration may indicate a DMRS mode associated with the giant PO. For example, the DMRS configuration may indicate the time and frequency location of the DMRS resource associated with the giant PO. Such a DMRS mode may be orthogonal to another DMRS mode configured for that giant PO (e.g., it does not overlap with that other DMRS mode in time or frequency). Alternatively, the DMRS mode may be non-orthogonal to that other DMRS mode (e.g., it overlaps with that other DMRS mode in time, frequency, or both). Such non-orthogonality can increase the number of available DMRS modes for that giant PO compared to orthogonal DMRS modes (and thus increase the number of UEs supported for that giant PO). In another instance, the DMRS configuration may indicate a DMRS sequence associated with the giant PO. For example, the DMRS configuration may indicate a value modulated onto the DMRS resource associated with the giant PO. Such DMRS sequences modulated onto a DMRS mode can be orthogonal to DMRS sequences modulated onto the same DMRS mode associated with another giant PO (e.g., the dot product of the two DMRS sequences is zero). Alternatively, DMRS sequences can be non-orthogonal to DMRS sequences associated with other such giant POs (e.g., the dot product of the two DMRS sequences is not zero). Thus, in cases where multiple preceding signals are mapped to the same giant PO (and therefore associated with the same DMRS mode), the orthogonal or non-orthogonal DMRS sequences used for each preceding signal can be used to distinguish the DMRS used for channel estimation.

[0111] In another instance, the DMRS configuration may indicate the DMRS mode associated with a PO set. For example, the DMRS configuration may indicate the time and frequency positions of the DMRS resources associated with a preceding signal corresponding to the PO set. Such a DMRS mode may be orthogonal to another DMRS mode associated with another preceding signal, PO, or PO set (e.g., not overlapping with that other DMRS mode in time or frequency). Alternatively, the DMRS mode may be non-orthogonal to that other DMRS mode (e.g., overlapping with that other DMRS mode in time, frequency, or both). This non-orthogonality can increase the number of available DMRS modes for the PO set compared to orthogonal DMRS modes (and thus increase the number of UEs supported for that PO set). In another instance, the DMRS configuration may indicate the DMRS sequence associated with a PO set. For example, the DMRS configuration may indicate values ​​modulated onto the DMRS resources associated with a preceding signal corresponding to the PO set. Such a DMRS sequence may be orthogonal to a DMRS sequence modulated onto the same DMRS resources associated with another preceding signal, PO, or PO set. Alternatively, DMRS sequences may not be orthogonal to DMRS sequences associated with another DMRS pattern of this type.

[0112] Figure 6 illustrates an example 600 of POs 602 and 604 configured for two-step random access. PO 602 may correspond to a single PO 502 in Figure 5, and PO 604 may correspond to multiple POs 504 in Figure 5. The DMRS configuration may indicate a DMRS mode 606 associated with PO 602 or PO 604. For example, the DMRS configuration may indicate one of multiple DMRS modes (e.g., DMRS 1 or DMRS 2) associated with a single or multiple POs referenced via PO1, PO2, or another PO or set of POs. For example, DMRS 1 may be a DMRS mode associated with a UE, while DMRS 2 may be another DMRS mode associated with another UE. The DMRS mode can be orthogonal DMRS mode 608, such as shown in the example of PO1 (e.g., the resources for DMRS 1 and DMRS 2 do not overlap temporally), or the DMRS mode can be non-orthogonal DMRS mode 610, such as shown in the example of PO2 (e.g., the resources for DMRS 1 and DMRS 2 overlap at least partially temporally). The DMRS configuration can alternatively or supplementarily indicate the DMRS sequence 612 associated with PO 602 or PO 604. For example, the DMRS configuration can indicate one of a plurality of DMRS sequences modulated onto DMRS resources of a single or plurality of POs referenced via PO1, PO2, or another PO or set of POs (e.g., DMRS sequence 1 or DMRS sequence 2). DMRS sequences can be orthogonal or non-orthogonal DMRS sequences relative to each other. For example, DMRS sequence 1 and DMRS sequence 2 can be orthogonal or non-orthogonal DMRS sequences modulated onto the same DMRS mode (e.g., DMRS 1 in the illustrated example).

[0113] In another instance, when a UE transmits repeated PUSCH data (e.g., msgA PUSCH repetition) within a large PO or PO set, the UE can apply different scrambling sequences to the msgA PUSCH repetition. The UE can scramble the repetition based on the scrambling sequence before modulation and transmission. Therefore, interference between msgA PUSCH transmissions from different UEs (which transmit data on adjacent beams) can be reduced. For example, Figure 7 illustrates an example 700 of POs 702, 704 configured for two-step random access, where the msgA PUSCH repetition 706 is scrambled according to a different scrambling sequence 708 and subsequently modulated and transmitted to the base station. PO 702 can correspond to a single PO 502, 602 of Figures 5 and 6, and PO 704 can correspond to multiple POs 504, 604 of Figures 5 and 6. For example, the UE can scramble one PUSCH repeat 706 in PO 702, 704 based on a first scrambling sequence 708 (e.g., scrambling sequence 1), the UE can scramble another PUSCH repeat in PO 702, 704 based on a second scrambling sequence 708 (e.g., scrambling sequence 2), and the UE can scramble another PUSCH repeat in PO 702, 704 based on a third scrambling sequence 708 (e.g., scrambling sequence 3). One or more scrambling sequences 708 can be different from the other scrambling sequences. By applying different scrambling sequences, interference (e.g., between adjacent msgA transmissions) can be minimized.

[0114] In another instance, a preamble signal associated with a large number of POs or a set of POs can be transmitted in multiple ROs. For example, Figure 8 illustrates an instance 800 configured for two-step random access of POs 802, 804, wherein a preamble signal 806 is transmitted in multiple ROs 808. PO 802 may correspond to a single PO 502, 602, 702 of Figures 5-7, and PO 804 may correspond to multiple POs 504, 604, 704 of Figures 5-7. For example, the UE may transmit one of the preamble signals 806 (e.g., preamble signal 1) in multiple ROs 808 (e.g., RO1 and RO2). The UE may similarly transmit other preamble signals (e.g., preamble signal 2) in multiple ROs. Therefore, compared to the example in Figure 5 (where each preceding signal occupies only one RO (and thus each PO corresponds to a single RO)), here, the preceding signal can occupy multiple ROs (and thus, each PO or set of POs can correspond to multiple ROs). For example, PO1 can correspond to RO1 and RO2, and PO2 can similarly correspond to RO1 and RO2. This kind of one-to-many mapping of preceding signals to ROs (and thus ROs to POs) can provide support for improved frequency hopping, antenna switching, and additional repetition beyond the range of repetitions available in the one-to-one mapping of preceding signals to ROs.

[0115] In another instance, the UE can send msgA PUSCH repeats on a PO or a set of POs associated with a preceding signal selected by the UE. In such cases, redundancy version (RV) cycles can be applied across PUSCH repeats. For example, Figure 9 illustrates instance 900 configured for two-step random access POs 902, 904, where msgA PUSCH repeats 906 are sent using different redundancy versions 908 according to a pre-configured period. PO 902 may correspond to a single PO 502, 602, 702, 802 of Figures 5-8, and PO 904 may correspond to multiple POs 504, 604, 704, 804 of Figures 5-8. In the example shown, redundancy version 908 is specified according to pattern "0312" (e.g., 0 for the first repeat, 3 for the second repeat, 1 for the third repeat, and 2 for the fourth repeat), and the redundancy version cycles after four PUSCH repeats (e.g., RV returns to 0 for the fifth repeat, 3 for the sixth repeat, and so on). In other instances, different redundant version cyclic modes can be configured. In some cases, the redundant versions are disjoint in the cyclic buffer and constitute the entire bit set in the cyclic buffer. In other cases, the redundant versions overlap in the cyclic buffer.

[0116] In another instance, the UE can transmit a single transport block across a set of POs or POs associated with a preamble signal selected by the UE. For example, Figure 10 illustrates instance 1000 configured for two-step random access with POs 1002, 1004, where msgA PUSCH data 1006 is transmitted over a single transport block 1008 across POs 1002, 1004. PO 1002 may correspond to a single PO 502, 602, 702, 802, 902 of Figures 5-9, and PO 1004 may correspond to multiple POs 504, 604, 704, 804, 904 of Figures 5-9. In other instances, the UE can transmit a single redundant version of a transport block across a set of POs or POs associated with a preamble signal selected by the UE.

[0117] In another instance, the UE can apply diversity techniques during msgA PUSCH transmission, such as frequency hopping (intra-slot or inter-slot frequency hopping), antenna switching (which can occur at the end of a PUSCH repeat), or DMRS accompaniment (which can be applied across frequency sharing POs before frequency hopping). For example, referring to Figures 9 and 10, each PUSCH repeat 906 or PUSCH data 1006 can be carried within a resource (a single PO 902, 1002) or a PO (among multiple POs 904, 1004) at different frequencies, and the UE can hop between frequencies (e.g., from one resource or PO to another) within the same time slot (intra-slot) or between multiple time slots (inter-slot). Furthermore, the UE can switch its antennas (e.g., antenna 352 in Figure 3) between PUSCH repeats 906. For example, the UE can transmit one PUSCH repeat from one antenna, another PUSCH repeat from another antenna, and so on.

[0118] Referring to the second example, the base station can provide multiple msgA PO configurations to UEs with different GNSS capabilities. For example, the base station (or network) can (e.g., in a System Information Block (SIB) or Radio Resource Control (RRC) message) send multiple msgA PO configurations to the UE using signals, and the UE can select one of the PO configurations for msgA PUSCH transmission. The PO configuration can indicate the time-frequency resources of one or more POs, which can be configured according to any of the examples described above. For example, the PO defined in the PO configuration can correspond to any one of PO 402, 502, 504, 602, 604, 702, 704, 802, 804, 902, 904, 1002, or 1004.

[0119] The msgA PO configuration may differ in terms of guard time and guard band. For example, one PO configuration may include a shorter guard time and a narrower guard band between POs, while another PO configuration may include a longer guard time and a wider guard band between POs. The msgA PO configuration can also be specific to different preamble signal groups. For example, one PO configuration may be applied to Group A preamble signals (e.g., the UE may send PUSCH data in a PO), while another PO configuration may be applied to the same Group A preamble signals. Similarly, different msgA PO configurations may be applied to Group B preamble signals (e.g., two PO configurations may be applied to the same Group P preamble signals).

[0120] The UE can select a PO configuration based on its UE capabilities. In one instance, UE capabilities may include (or be based on) GNSS capabilities. For example, UE capabilities may be based on GNSS accuracy relative to the UE's location (which depends on how frequently the UE can perform GNSS correction or GNSS positioning) or accuracy relative to satellite ephemeris (which depends on how frequently the UE can read ephemeris). The UE can receive ephemeris in the SIB. Alternatively or supplementarily, UE capabilities may be based on whether the UE has GNSS capabilities. Alternatively or supplementarily, UE capabilities may include (or be based on) the UE's device type. For example, UE capabilities may be based on whether the UE is a VSAT or a handheld device.

[0121] Additionally, the guard time and guard band of the PO configuration can be configured or selected based on the UE's capabilities. For example, a PO configuration including a shorter guard time and a narrower guard band between POs can be applied to a UE with high capabilities, while a PO configuration including a longer guard time and a wider guard band between POs can be applied to a UE with low capabilities. Here, for example, if the UE has GNSS capability, if the UE has high GNSS accuracy (e.g., the UE frequently performs GNSS correction), if the UE has high accuracy relative to satellite ephemeris (e.g., the UE frequently reads ephemeris from the SIB), or if the UE is a VSAT, then the UE can be considered to have high capabilities. Alternatively, for example, if the UE does not have GNSS capability, or if the UE has GNSS capability but has low GNSS accuracy (e.g., the UE does not frequently perform GNSS correction) or low accuracy relative to satellite ephemeris (e.g., the UE does not frequently read ephemeris from the SIB), or if the UE is a handheld device, then the UE can be considered to have low capabilities.

[0122] Figure 11 illustrates an example 1100 of POs 1102 and 1104 configured for two-step random access in multiple PO configurations 1106. POs 1102 and 1104 may correspond to any of POs 402, 502, 504, 602, 604, 702, 704, 802, 804, 902, 904, 1002, or 1004 in Figures 4-10. The UE may select one of the PO configurations for two-step random access based on UE capabilities 1108. For example, UE capabilities may be based on GNSS capability 1110 or device type 1112. PO configurations 1106 may differ in guard time 1114 or guard band 1116. For example, PO configuration 1 may include a longer guard time and a wider guard band between POs compared to PO configuration 2. The difference in guard time or guard band may depend on UE capabilities. For example, if the UE has low capability, it can choose PO configuration 1 (with a longer guard time and wider guard band between PO 1102), while if the UE has high capability, it can choose PO configuration 2 (with a shorter guard time and narrower guard band between PO 1104). Additionally, the PO configuration can be specific to the preceding signal group 1118. For example, PO configuration 1 can correspond to preceding signal group A, and PO configuration 2 can correspond to preceding signal group B.

[0123] Referring to the third state example, the base station can configure a sub-PRB guard band for the PO. Typically, the PO guard band (e.g., guard band 404 in Figure 4) can be configured to span 1 PRB or 0 PRBs (no guard band). For example, referring to Figure 4, each PO 402 can be frequency-separated by up to 1 PRB. However, for low-coverage UEs, the PO is typically configured with a frequency span of 1 PRB to provide a reasonable signal-to-interference-and-noise ratio (SINR) for such UEs. Therefore, an inefficient amount of frequency resources may be allocated to the guard band (e.g., assuming a 1 PRB guard band and a 1 PRB PO, up to 50%). Therefore, to provide a more efficient frequency resource allocation for the guard band, the base station can configure the guard band for the PO at a finer subcarrier level rather than a coarser PRB level. For example, the granularity of the guard band configuration can be configured in units of n subcarriers, where n is an integer less than the number of subcarriers in the PRB (e.g., n=12). For example, a base station can configure a PO (Positioning Point) to a guard band with fewer than 12 subcarriers (assuming 12 subcarriers per PRB). Therefore, a smaller percentage of frequency resources can be allocated to the guard band, allowing more POs to occupy the same amount of time on different frequencies.

[0124] Figure 12 illustrates an example 1200 of a guard band 1202 configured for two-step random access, wherein a guard band 1204 between POs 1202 is configured with a frequency span of less than 1 PRB (less than 12 subcarriers). PO 1202 can correspond to any of POs 402, 502, 504, 602, 604, 702, 704, 802, 804, 902, 904, 1002, 1004, 1102, and 1104 in Figures 4-11. The base station (or network) can provide the UE with a guard band configuration 1206 indicating the number of subcarriers 1208 in the guard band 1204, where the number of subcarriers 1208 is less than 12. For example, in the example shown, the base station can configure the guard band 1204 to span only ten subcarriers. Therefore, the percentage of frequency resources allocated to the guard band may be reduced.

[0125] Figure 13 illustrates an example 1300 of a call flow between UE 1302 and base station 1304. The UE and base station may be part of an NTN and communicate with each other via an NTN node 1306 (e.g., a satellite). Alternatively, the UE and base station may communicate directly with each other. The base station may initially provide the UE with a RACH configuration 1308. The RACH configuration 1308 may include various parameters for two-step random access, such as the Physical Random Access Channel (PRACH) configuration, preceding signal power ramp step size, frequency resources for PRACH, RAR window, and other information. The base station may also provide the UE with one or more PO configurations 1310. The PO configuration 1310 may include various parameters specifying the PUSCH allocation for msgA in two-step random access, such as time-frequency domain resources, DMRS type, modulation and decoding scheme (MCS), PUSCH transmit power related parameters, and other information.

[0126] In one instance, RACH configuration 1308, one or more PO configurations 1310, or a combination of RACH and PO configurations can map a preamble signal to a giant PO and an associated DMRS sequence for that PO, or can map a preamble signal to a set of POs and an associated set of DMRS sequences, as described above with respect to Figure 5. In another instance, RACH configuration 1308, one or more PO configurations 1310, or a combination of RACH and PO configurations can include a DMRS configuration associated with a giant PO or a set of POs, as described above with respect to Figure 6. In yet another instance, RACH configuration 1308, one or more PO configurations 1310, or a combination of RACH and PO configurations can be based on UE capabilities, as described above with respect to Figure 11. In yet another instance, RACH configuration 1308, one or more PO configurations 1310, or a combination of RACH and PO configurations can include a sub-PRB guard band configuration, as described above with respect to Figure 12.

[0127] After UE 1302 is configured, UE 1302 and base station 1304 can execute a two-step random access procedure 1312. For example, the UE can send msgA 1314 including preamble signal 1316 and PUSCH data 1318. The UE can also send a repetition of preamble signal 1316 and a repetition of PUSCH data 1318. Preamble signal 1316 and its repetition can be sent in one or more ROs 1320, and PUSCH data 1318 and its repetition can be sent in one or more POs 1322. In one instance, UE 1302 can apply different scrambling sequences to the repetition of PUSCH data 1318, as described above with respect to Figure 7. In another instance, preamble signal 1316 can be sent in multiple ROs 1320, as described above with respect to Figure 8. In another instance, RV cycles can be applied across PUSCH data 1318 repetitions, as described above with respect to Figure 9. In an additional instance, PUSCH data 1318 can be transmitted across PO 1322 in a single transport block, as described above with respect to Figure 10. UE 1302 can also perform frequency hopping (intra-slot or inter-slot) between PO 1322, switching the antenna from one PUSCH data repetition to another, or sharing POs with DMRS across frequencies. In another instance, the UE can select a PO configuration from PO configuration 1310 based on UE capabilities and transmit PUSCH data 1318 and repetitions within PO 1322 defined by the selected PO configuration. After successfully receiving preamble signal 1316 and PUSCH data 1318, the base station can transmit msgB 1324 including RAR 1326 and contention resolution message 1328. Therefore, random access can be implemented.

[0128] Figure 14 is a flowchart 1400 of a wireless communication method. This method can be performed by a UE (e.g., UE 104, 350, 1302; device 2202). Optional states are shown in dashed lines.

[0129] At 1402, the UE obtains a RACH configuration, wherein the RACH configuration associates a preamble signal with at least one PO for two-step random access, and wherein the PO spans a time interval greater than one time slot. For example, 1402 can be performed by RACH configuration component 2240.

[0130] In one instance, the start frequency or frequency span of at least one PO may vary between time slots or symbols. In one instance, at least one PO may include an orthogonal DMRS mode. In one instance, at least one PO may include a non-orthogonal DMRS mode. In one instance, at least one PO may include a DMRS mode associated with an orthogonal DMRS sequence. In one instance, at least one PO may include a DMRS mode associated with a non-orthogonal DMRS sequence. In one instance, at least one PO may include repetitions of PUSCH data associated with different scrambling sequences.

[0131] At 1404, the UE can transmit or output a repeat of the preamble signal in a plurality of ROs for transmission. For example, 1404 can be performed by the preamble signal repeating unit 2242.

[0132] At point 1406, the UE can transmit or output a duplicate of PUSCH data in at least one PO for transmission. For example, 1406 can be performed by the PUSCH data duplication component 2244. In one instance, duplication can be associated with a cyclic redundant version.

[0133] At point 1408, the UE can transmit a single transport block including PUSCH data in at least one PO or output a single transport block including PUSCH data for transmission. For example, 1408 can be performed by the PUSCH transport block component 2246.

[0134] In one instance, at least one PO may include intra-slot frequency hopping or inter-slot frequency hopping.

[0135] At 1410, the UE can switch antennas between repetitions of PUSCH data in at least one PO. For example, 1410 can be performed by antenna switching unit 2248.

[0136] In one instance, multiple DMRSs can be attached to at least one PO.

[0137] Figure 15 is a flowchart 1500 of a wireless communication method. This method can be performed by a UE (e.g., UE 104, 350, 1302; device 2202). Optional states are shown in dashed lines.

[0138] At 1502, the UE obtains the RACH configuration, which associates the preamble signal with a plurality of POs for two-step random access. For example, 1502 can be performed by the RACH configuration unit 2240.

[0139] In one instance, each of the POs may include a start time position, a time interval, a start frequency position, and a frequency interval. In one instance, one or more POs may include orthogonal DMRS modes. In one instance, one or more POs may include non-orthogonal DMRS modes. In one instance, one or more POs may include DMRS modes associated with orthogonal DMRS sequences. In one instance, one or more POs may include DMRS modes associated with non-orthogonal DMRS sequences. In one instance, one or more POs may include repetitions of PUSCH data associated with different scrambling sequences.

[0140] At point 1504, the UE can transmit or output a repeat of the preamble signal in a plurality of ROs for transmission. For example, 1504 can be performed by the preamble signal repeating unit 2242.

[0141] At point 1506, the UE can transmit or output a duplicate of PUSCH data for transmission in at least one of the plurality of POs. For example, 1506 can be performed by the PUSCH data duplication component 2244. In one instance, duplication can be associated with a cyclic redundant version.

[0142] At point 1508, the UE can transmit a single transport block including PUSCH data in the PO or output a single transport block including PUSCH data for transmission. For example, point 1508 can be performed by the PUSCH transport block component 2246.

[0143] In one instance, one or more POs in a PO may include intra-slot frequency hopping or inter-slot frequency hopping.

[0144] At 1510, the UE can switch antennas between repetitions of PUSCH data in at least one of the plurality of POs. For example, 1510 can be performed by antenna switching unit 2248.

[0145] In one instance, multiple DMRSs can be attached to the PO.

[0146] Figure 16 is a flowchart 1600 of a wireless communication method. This method can be performed by a UE (e.g., UE 104, 350, 1302; device 2202). Optional states are shown in dashed lines.

[0147] At 1602, the UE obtains a plurality of configurations, each indicating a PO for two-step random access. For example, 1602 can be performed by PO configuration unit 2250.

[0148] In one instance, configurations can be associated with individual UE capabilities. In one instance, UE capabilities may include GNSS capabilities or UE type. In one instance, configurations may differ in guard time and guard band. In one instance, configurations may be specific to different preceding signal groups.

[0149] Figure 17 is a flowchart 1700 of a wireless communication method. This method can be performed by a UE (e.g., UE 104, 350, 1302; device 2202). Optional states are shown in dashed lines.

[0150] At 1702, the UE obtains a configuration indicating the guard band for the PO used in two-step random access, wherein the guard band is indicated in units of subcarriers spanning less than one PRB. For example, 1702 can be performed by guard band configuration unit 2252.

[0151] Figure 18 is a flowchart 1800 of a wireless communication method. This method can be performed by a base station (e.g., base station 102 / 180, 310, 1304; device 2302). Optional states are shown in dashed lines.

[0152] At 1802, the base station provides or outputs a RACH configuration for transmission, wherein the RACH configuration associates a preamble signal with at least one PO for two-step random access, and wherein the PO spans a time interval greater than one time slot. For example, 1802 can be performed by RACH configuration component 2340.

[0153] In one instance, the start frequency or frequency span of at least one PO may vary between time slots or symbols. In one instance, at least one PO may include an orthogonal DMRS mode. In one instance, at least one PO may include a non-orthogonal DMRS mode. In one instance, at least one PO may include a DMRS mode associated with an orthogonal DMRS sequence. In one instance, at least one PO may include a DMRS mode associated with a non-orthogonal DMRS sequence. In one instance, at least one PO may include repetitions of PUSCH data associated with different scrambling sequences.

[0154] At 1804, the base station can receive or obtain repetition of preceding signals in a plurality of ROs. For example, 1804 can be performed by preceding signal repetition unit 2342.

[0155] At 1806, the base station can receive or obtain a repeat of PUSCH data in at least one PO. For example, 1806 can be performed by the PUSCH data repeating component 2344. In one instance, the repeat can be associated with a redundant version of the cycle.

[0156] At 1808, the base station can receive or acquire a single transport block including PUSCH data in at least one PO. For example, 1808 can be performed by PUSCH transport block component 2346.

[0157] In one instance, at least one PO may include intra-slot frequency hopping or inter-slot frequency hopping.

[0158] At point 1810, the base station can receive or obtain duplicate PUSCH data from different antennas of the UE in at least one PO. For example, 1810 can be performed by PUSCH data antenna element 2348.

[0159] In one instance, multiple DMRSs can be attached to at least one PO.

[0160] Figure 19 is a flowchart 1900 of a wireless communication method. This method can be performed by a base station (e.g., base station 102 / 180, 310, 1304; device 2302). Optional states are shown in dashed lines.

[0161] At 1902, the base station provides or outputs RACH configuration for transmission, wherein the RACH configuration associates a preamble signal with a plurality of POs for two-step random access. For example, 1902 can be performed by RACH configuration component 2340.

[0162] In one instance, each of the POs may include a start time position, a time interval, a start frequency position, and a frequency interval. In one instance, one or more POs may include orthogonal DMRS modes. In one instance, one or more POs may include non-orthogonal DMRS modes. In one instance, one or more POs may include DMRS modes associated with orthogonal DMRS sequences. In one instance, one or more POs may include DMRS modes associated with non-orthogonal DMRS sequences. In one instance, one or more POs may include repetitions of PUSCH data associated with different scrambling sequences.

[0163] At 1904, the base station can receive or obtain repetition of preceding signals in a plurality of ROs. For example, 1904 can be performed by preceding signal repetition unit 2342.

[0164] At point 1906, the base station can receive or obtain a repeat of PUSCH data in at least one of the plurality of POs. For example, 1906 can be performed by the PUSCH data repeating component 2344. In one instance, the repeating can be associated with a redundant version of the cycle.

[0165] At point 1908, the base station can receive or acquire a single transport block containing PUSCH data in the PO. For example, point 1908 can be performed by the PUSCH transport block component 2346.

[0166] In one instance, one or more POs in a PO may include intra-slot frequency hopping or inter-slot frequency hopping.

[0167] At point 1910, the base station can receive or obtain duplicate PUSCH data from different antennas of the UE in the PO. For example, point 1910 can be performed by PUSCH data antenna element 2348.

[0168] In one instance, multiple DMRSs can be attached to the PO.

[0169] Figure 20 is a flowchart of a wireless communication method 2000. This method can be performed by a base station (e.g., base station 102 / 180, 310, 1304; device 2302). Optional states are shown in dashed lines.

[0170] At 2002, the base station provides multiple configurations or outputs multiple configurations for transmission, each configuration indicating a PO for two-step random access. For example, 2002 can be performed by PO configuration component 2350.

[0171] In one instance, configurations can be associated with individual UE capabilities. In one instance, UE capabilities may include GNSS capabilities or UE type. In one instance, configurations may differ in guard time and guard band. In one instance, configurations may be specific to different preceding signal groups.

[0172] Figure 21 is a flowchart 2100 of a wireless communication method. This method can be performed by a base station (e.g., base station 102 / 180, 310, 1304; device 2302). Optional states are shown in dashed lines.

[0173] At 2102, the base station provides a configuration or output configuration for transmission, which indicates a guard band for the PO used in two-step random access, wherein the guard band is indicated in units of subcarriers spanning less than one PRB. For example, 2102 can be performed by guard band configuration unit 2352.

[0174] Figure 22 is Figure 2200 illustrating an example of a hardware implementation for device 2202. Device 2202 is a UE and includes: a cellular baseband processor 2204 (also referred to as a modem) coupled to a cellular RF transceiver 2222 and one or more Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) cards 2220; an application processor 2206 coupled to a Secure Digital Card (SD) card 2208 and a screen 2210; a Bluetooth module 2212; a Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) module 2214; a Global Positioning System (GPS) module 2216; and a power supply 2218. The cellular baseband processor 2204 communicates with UE 104 and / or BS 102 / 180 via the cellular RF transceiver 2222. The cellular baseband processor 2204 may include computer-readable media / memory. The computer-readable media / memory may be non-transitory. The cellular baseband processor 2204 is responsible for general processing, including executing software stored on computer-readable media / memory. When executed by the cellular baseband processor 2204, this software causes the cellular baseband processor 2204 to perform the various functions described above. The computer-readable media / memory can also be used to store data manipulated by the cellular baseband processor 2204 while executing the software. The cellular baseband processor 2204 also includes a receiving component 2230, a communication manager 2232, and a transmitting component 2234. The communication manager 2232 includes one or more of the components shown. The components within the communication manager 2232 can be stored in computer-readable media / memory and / or configured as hardware within the cellular baseband processor 2204. The cellular baseband processor 2204 can be a component of the UE 350 and can include memory 360 and / or at least one of the following: a TX processor 368, an RX processor 356, and a controller / processor 359. In one configuration, device 2202 may be a modem chip and include only baseband processor 2204, while in another configuration, device 2202 may be the entire UE (e.g., see 350 in FIG3) and include the aforementioned additional modules of device 2202.

[0175] Communication manager 2232 includes a RACH configuration component 2240 configured to acquire a Random Access Channel (RACH) configuration, wherein the RACH configuration associates a preamble signal with at least one Entity Uplink Shared Channel (PUSCH) timing (PO) for two-step random access, and wherein the PO spans a time interval greater than one time slot, for example, as described in conjunction with 1402. RACH configuration component 2240 may alternatively or supplementally be configured to acquire a Random Access Channel (RACH) configuration, wherein the RACH configuration associates a preamble signal with a plurality of Entity Uplink Shared Channel (PUSCH) timings (PO) for two-step random access, for example, as described in conjunction with 1502. Communication manager 2232 includes a preamble signal repetition component 2242 configured to transmit repetitions of the preamble signal in a plurality of ROs or output repetitions of the preamble signal for transmission, for example, as described in conjunction with 1404 and 1504. Communication manager 2232 includes a PUSCH data duplication component 2244, configured to transmit duplications of PUSCH data or output duplications of PUSCH data for transmission in at least one PO, for example, as described in conjunction with 1406 and 1506. Communication manager 2232 includes a PUSCH transport block component 2246, configured to transmit a single transport block including PUSCH data or output a single transport block including PUSCH data for transmission in at least one PO, for example, as described in conjunction with 1408 and 1508. Communication manager 2232 includes an antenna switching component 2248, configured to switch antennas between duplications of PUSCH data in at least one PO, for example, as described in conjunction with 1410 and 1510. Communication manager 2232 includes a PO configuration component 2250, configured to obtain a plurality of configurations, each configuration indicating a PO for two-step random access, for example, as described in conjunction with 1602. The communication manager 2232 includes a guard band configuration component 2252, which is configured to obtain a configuration of a guard band indicating the timing (PO) of a two-step random access entity uplink shared channel (PUSCH), wherein the guard band is indicated in units of subcarriers spanning less than one entity resource block (PRB), for example, as described in conjunction with 1702.

[0176] The device may include additional components for each of the blocks in the flowcharts of Figures 14-17 above that execute the algorithm. Therefore, each block in the flowcharts of Figures 14-17 above can be executed by components, and the device may include one or more of those components. Components may be one or more hardware components specifically configured to execute the program / algorithm, implemented by a processor configured to execute the program / algorithm, stored in a computer-readable medium for implementation by the processor, or some combination thereof.

[0177] In one configuration, device 2202 (especially cellular baseband processor 2204) includes units for obtaining a Random Access Channel (RACH) configuration, wherein the RACH configuration associates a preamble signal with at least one Physical Uplink Shared Channel (PUSCH) timing (PO) for two-step random access, and wherein the PO spans a time interval greater than one time slot. In one configuration, device 2202 (especially cellular baseband processor 2204) may include units for transmitting or outputting repetitions of the preamble signal for transmission in a plurality of RACH timings (RO). In one configuration, device 2202 (especially cellular baseband processor 2204) may include units for transmitting or outputting repetitions of PUSCH data for transmission in at least one PO. In one configuration, device 2202 (especially cellular baseband processor 2204) may include units for transmitting or outputting a single transport block including PUSCH data for transmission in at least one PO. In one configuration, device 2202 (in particular cellular baseband processor 2204) may include a unit for switching antennas between repetitions of PUSCH data in at least one PO.

[0178] In one configuration, device 2202 (especially cellular baseband processor 2204) includes units for obtaining a Random Access Channel (RACH) configuration, wherein the RACH configuration associates a preamble signal with a plurality of Entity Uplink Shared Channel (PUSCH) timings (POs) for two-step random access. In one configuration, device 2202 (especially cellular baseband processor 2204) may include units for transmitting or outputting repetitions of the preamble signal in the plurality of RACH timings (ROs) for transmission. In one configuration, device 2202 (especially cellular baseband processor 2204) may include units for transmitting or outputting repetitions of PUSCH data in at least one of the plurality of POs for transmission. In one configuration, device 2202 (especially cellular baseband processor 2204) may include units for transmitting or outputting a single transport block including PUSCH data in a PO for transmission. In one configuration, device 2202 (in particular, cellular baseband processor 2204) may include a unit for switching antennas between repetitions of PUSCH data in at least one of a plurality of POs.

[0179] In one configuration, device 2202 (especially cellular baseband processor 2204) includes a unit for obtaining a plurality of configurations, each configuration indicating a Physical Uplink Shared Channel (PUSCH) timing (PO) for two-step random access.

[0180] In one configuration, device 2202 (especially cellular baseband processor 2204) includes a unit for obtaining a configuration of a guard band indicating the timing (PO) of a physical uplink shared channel (PUSCH) for two-step random access, wherein the guard band is indicated in units of subcarriers spanning less than one physical resource block (PRB).

[0181] The aforementioned unit may be one or more components of the device 2202 configured to perform the functions described therein. As described above, the device 2202 may include a TX processor 368, an RX processor 356, and a controller / processor 359. Therefore, in one configuration, the aforementioned unit may be the TX processor 368, the RX processor 356, and the controller / processor 359 configured to perform the functions described therein.

[0182] Figure 23 is a diagram 2300 illustrating an example of a hardware implementation for device 2302. Device 2302 is a BS and includes a baseband unit 2304. The baseband unit 2304 can communicate with UE 104 via a cellular RF transceiver. The baseband unit 2304 may include computer-readable media / memory. The baseband unit 2304 is responsible for general processing, including executing software stored on the computer-readable media / memory. When executed by the baseband unit 2304, the software causes the baseband unit 2304 to perform the various functions described above. The computer-readable media / memory can also be used to store data manipulated by the baseband unit 2304 when executing the software. The baseband unit 2304 also includes a receiving component 2330, a communication manager 2332, and a transmitting component 2334. The communication manager 2332 includes one or more of the components shown. The components within the communication manager 2332 may be stored in computer-readable media / memory and / or configured as hardware within the baseband unit 2304. The baseband unit 2304 may be a component of the BS 310 and may include memory 376 and / or at least one of the following: TX processor 316, RX processor 370, and controller / processor 375.

[0183] Communication manager 2332 includes RACH configuration component 2340, configured to provide or output RACH configurations for transmission, wherein the RACH configuration associates a preamble signal with at least one entity uplink shared channel (PUSCH) timing (PO) for two-step random access, and wherein the PO spans a time interval greater than one time slot, for example, as described in conjunction with 1802. RACH configuration component 2340 may alternatively or supplementally be configured to provide or output RACH configurations for transmission, wherein the RACH configuration associates a preamble signal with a plurality of entity uplink shared channel (PUSCH) timings (PO) for two-step random access, for example, as described in conjunction with 1902. Communication manager 2332 includes preamble signal repetition component 2342, configured to receive repetitions of the preamble signal in a plurality of ROs, for example, as described in conjunction with 1804 and 1904. Communication manager 2332 includes a PUSCH data repetition component 2344 configured to receive repetitions of PUSCH data in at least one PO, for example, as described in conjunction with 1806 and 1906. Communication manager 2332 includes a PUSCH transport block component 2346 configured to receive a single transport block including PUSCH data in at least one PO, for example, as described in conjunction with 1808 and 1908. Communication manager 2332 includes a PUSCH data antenna element 2348 configured to receive repetitions of PUSCH data from different antennas of the UE in at least one PO, for example, as described in conjunction with 1810 and 1910. Communication manager 2332 includes a PO configuration component 2350 configured to provide a plurality of configurations or output multiple configurations for transmission, each configuration indicating a PO for two-step random access, for example, as described in conjunction with 2002. The communication manager 2332 includes a guard band configuration component 2352, which is configured to provide or output configuration for transmission, the configuration indicating a guard band for a two-step random access Entity Uplink Shared Channel (PUSCH) timing (PO), wherein the guard band is indicated in units of subcarriers spanning less than one Entity Resource Block (PRB), for example, as described in conjunction with 2102.

[0184] The device may include additional components for each of the blocks that execute the algorithms in the flowcharts of Figures 18-21 above. Therefore, each of the blocks in the flowcharts of Figures 18-21 above can be executed by the components, and the device may include one or more of those components. The components may be one or more hardware components specifically configured to execute the program / algorithm, implemented by a processor configured to execute the program / algorithm, stored in a computer-readable medium for implementation by the processor, or some combination thereof.

[0185] In one configuration, device 2302 (especially baseband unit 2304) includes units for providing a Random Access Path (RACH) configuration, wherein the RACH configuration associates a preamble signal with at least one Physical Uplink Shared Path (PUSCH) timing (PO) for two-step random access, and wherein the PO spans a time interval greater than one time slot. In one configuration, device 2302 (especially baseband unit 2304) may include units for receiving or obtaining repetitions of the preamble signal in a plurality of RACH timings (RO). In one configuration, device 2302 (especially baseband unit 2304) may include units for receiving or obtaining repetitions of PUSCH data in at least one PO. In one configuration, device 2302 (especially baseband unit 2304) may include units for receiving or obtaining a single transport block including PUSCH data in at least one PO. In one configuration, device 2302 (especially baseband unit 2304) may include a unit for receiving or obtaining repeating PUSCH data from different antennas of the UE in at least one PO.

[0186] In one configuration, device 2302 (especially baseband unit 2304) includes units for providing a Random Access Path (RACH) configuration, wherein the RACH configuration associates a preamble signal with a plurality of Entity Uplink Shared Path (PUSCH) timings (POs) for two-step random access. In one configuration, device 2302 (especially baseband unit 2304) may include units for receiving or obtaining repetitions of the preamble signal in the plurality of RACH timings (ROs). In one configuration, device 2302 (especially baseband unit 2304) may include units for receiving or obtaining repetitions of PUSCH data in at least one of the plurality of POs. In one configuration, device 2302 (especially baseband unit 2304) may include units for receiving or obtaining a single transport block including PUSCH data in at least one of the plurality of POs. In one configuration, device 2302 (especially baseband unit 2304) may include a unit for receiving or obtaining repeating PUSCH data from different antennas of the UE in at least one of a plurality of POs.

[0187] In one configuration, device 2302 (especially baseband unit 2304) includes a unit for providing a plurality of configurations, each configuration indicating a physical uplink shared channel (PUSCH) timing (PO) for two-step random access.

[0188] In one configuration, device 2302 (especially baseband unit 2304) includes a unit for providing a configuration of a guard band indicating the timing (PO) of a physical uplink shared channel (PUSCH) for two-step random access, wherein the guard band is indicated in units of subcarriers spanning less than one physical resource block (PRB).

[0189] The aforementioned unit may be one or more components of the device 2302 configured to perform the functions described therein. As described above, the device 2302 may include a TX processor 316, an RX processor 370, and a controller / processor 375. Therefore, in one configuration, the aforementioned unit may be the TX processor 316, the RX processor 370, and the controller / processor 375 configured to perform the functions described therein. Additional considerations

[0190] It should be understood that the specific order or hierarchy of the blocks in the disclosed program / flowchart is a description of the instance methods. Based on design preferences, it should be understood that the specific order or hierarchy of the blocks in the program / flowchart can be rearranged. Furthermore, some blocks can be merged or omitted. The attached method request provides the elements of each block in a sampling order and is not intended to be limited to the specific order or hierarchy provided.

[0191] The preceding description is provided to enable anyone skilled in the art to implement the various forms described herein. Various modifications to these forms will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein can be applied to other forms. Therefore, the claims are not intended to be limited to the forms shown herein, but are given the full scope consistent with the verbal claims, wherein references to singular elements are not intended to mean "one and only one," but rather "one or more." Terms such as "if," "when," and "at the same time" should be interpreted as meaning "under the condition of," and not as implying a direct temporal relationship or reaction. That is, these phrases (e.g., "when") do not imply an immediate action in response to the occurrence of an action or during the occurrence of such action, but merely that the action will occur if the condition is met, without requiring a specific or immediate temporal constraint on the occurrence of the action. The term "exemplary" is used herein to mean "serving as an example, illustration, or description." Any state described as "exemplary" herein is not necessarily to be construed as preferred over or superior to other states. Unless otherwise expressly stated, the term "some" means one or more. Combinations such as "at least one of A, B, or C", "one or more of A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", "one or more of A, B, and C", and "A, B, C, or any combination thereof" include any combination of A, B, and / or C, and may include multiples of A, multiples of B, or multiples of C. Specifically, combinations such as "at least one of A, B, or C", "one or more of A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", "one or more of A, B, and C", and "A, B, C, or any combination thereof" may be only A, only B, only C, A and B, A and C, B and C, or A and B and C, wherein any such combination may contain one or more members or several members of A, B, or C. All structural and functional equivalents of the elements throughout the various forms described herein are expressly incorporated herein by reference, and are intended to be included in the claims, of which such structural and functional equivalents are known or will be known later to those skilled in the art to which this invention pertains. Furthermore, nothing disclosed herein is intended to be offered to the public, whether or not such disclosure is expressly stated in the claims. Terms such as “module,” “mechanism,” “element,” and “device” are not necessarily substitutes for the term “unit.” Therefore, no element of the claims should be interpreted as a unit plus a function unless the element is expressly described using the phrase “unit for…”. Instance status

[0192] The following examples are merely illustrative and may be combined with, but are not limited to, other embodiments or teachings described herein.

[0193] Example 1 is a method of radio communication at a user equipment (UE), comprising: obtaining a random access channel (RACH) configuration, wherein the RACH configuration associates a preamble signal with at least one entity uplink shared channel (PUSCH) timing (PO) for two-step random access, and wherein the PO spans a time interval greater than one time slot.

[0194] Example 2 is based on the method of Example 1, wherein the starting frequency or frequency span of the at least one PO changes between time slots or symbols.

[0195] Example 3 is the method according to any one of Examples 1 and 2, wherein the at least one PO includes quadrature demodulation reference signal (DMRS) modes that do not overlap in time or frequency and are each associated with a different preceding signal.

[0196] Example 4 is the method according to any one of Examples 1 and 2, wherein the at least one PO includes non-orthogonal demodulation reference signal (DMRS) modes that overlap in at least one of time or frequency and are each associated with a different preceding signal.

[0197] Example 5 is the method according to any one of Examples 1 to 4, wherein the at least one PO includes DMRS modes associated with a quadrature demodulation reference signal (DMRS) sequence and each associated with a different preceding signal.

[0198] Example 6 is the method according to any one of Examples 1 to 4, wherein the at least one PO includes DMRS modes associated with a non-orthogonal demodulation reference signal (DMRS) sequence and each associated with a different preceding signal.

[0199] Example 7 is the method according to any one of Examples 1 to 6, wherein the at least one PO includes repetitions of PUSCH data associated with different scrambling sequences.

[0200] Example 8 is the method according to any one of Examples 1 to 7, and also includes: sending repetitions of the preceding signal at a plurality of RACH timings (ROs).

[0201] Example 9 is the method according to any one of Examples 1 to 8, and also includes: sending repeated PUSCH data in the at least one PO.

[0202] Example 10 is based on the method of Example 9, where the repetition is associated with a redundant version of the loop.

[0203] Example 11 is the method according to any one of Examples 1 to 8, and also includes: sending a single transport block including PUSCH data in the at least one PO.

[0204] Example 12 is the method according to any one of Examples 1 to 11, wherein the at least one PO includes intra-slot frequency hopping or inter-slot frequency hopping.

[0205] Example 13 is the method according to any one of Examples 1 to 12, and also includes: switching the antenna between repetitions of PUSCH data in the at least one PO.

[0206] Example 14 is the method according to any one of Examples 1 to 13, wherein a plurality of demodulation reference signals (DMRS) are attached to the at least one PO.

[0207] Example 15 is a method of radio communication at a user equipment (UE), comprising: obtaining a random access channel (RACH) configuration, wherein the RACH configuration associates a preamble signal with a plurality of entity uplink shared channel (PUSCH) timings (PO) for two-step random access.

[0208] Example 16 is based on the method of Example 15, wherein each of the POs includes a start time position, a time interval, a start frequency position, and a frequency interval.

[0209] Example 17 is the method according to any one of Examples 15 and 16, wherein one or more of the POs include a quadrature demodulation reference signal (DMRS) mode.

[0210] Example 18 is the method according to any one of Examples 15 and 16, wherein one or more of the POs include a non-orthogonal demodulation reference signal (DMRS) mode.

[0211] Example 19 is the method according to any one of Examples 15 to 18, wherein one or more of the POs include a DMRS mode associated with a quadrature demodulation reference signal (DMRS) sequence.

[0212] Example 20 is the method according to any one of Examples 15 to 18, wherein one or more of the POs include a DMRS mode associated with a non-orthogonal demodulation reference signal (DMRS) sequence.

[0213] Example 21 is the method according to any one of Examples 15 to 20, wherein one or more of the POs include repetitions of PUSCH data associated with different scrambling sequences.

[0214] Example 22 is the method according to any one of Examples 15 to 21, and also includes: sending repetitions of the preceding signal at a plurality of RACH timings (ROs).

[0215] Example 23 is the method according to any one of Examples 15 to 22, and also includes: sending repeated PUSCH data in the PO.

[0216] Example 24 is based on the method of Example 23, wherein the repetition is associated with a redundant version of the loop.

[0217] Example 25 is the method according to any one of Examples 15 to 22, and also includes: sending a single transport block including PUSCH data in the PO.

[0218] Example 26 is the method according to any one of Examples 15 to 25, wherein one or more of the POs include intra-slot frequency hopping or inter-slot frequency hopping.

[0219] Example 27 is the method according to any one of Examples 15 to 26, and also includes: switching the antenna between repetitions of PUSCH data in the PO.

[0220] Example 28 is the method according to any one of Examples 15 to 27, wherein a plurality of demodulation reference signals (DMRS) are attached to the PO.

[0221] Example 29 is a method of wireless communication at a user equipment (UE), comprising: obtaining a plurality of configurations, each configuration indicating a physical uplink shared channel (PUSCH) timing (PO) for two-step random access.

[0222] Example 30 is based on the method of Example 29, wherein each configuration is associated with a different UE capability.

[0223] Example 31 is based on the method of Example 30, wherein the UE capability includes Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) capability or UE type.

[0224] Example 32 is the method according to any one of Examples 29 to 31, wherein the configuration differs in the protection time and protection band.

[0225] Example 33 is the method according to any one of Examples 29 to 32, wherein the configuration is specific to different preceding signal groups.

[0226] Example 34 is a method of radio communication at a user equipment (UE), comprising: obtaining a configuration of a guard band indicating a physical uplink shared channel (PUSCH) timing (PO) for two-step random access, wherein the guard band is indicated in units of subcarriers spanning less than one physical resource block (PRB).

[0227] Example 35 is a UE including: a transceiver; memory including instructions; and one or more processors configured to execute the instructions to cause the UE to perform the method according to any one of Examples 1-14, wherein the transceiver is configured to receive the RACH configuration.

[0228] Example 36 is a UE including: a transceiver; memory including instructions; and one or more processors configured to execute the instructions to cause the UE to perform the method according to any one of Examples 15-28, wherein the transceiver is configured to receive the RACH configuration.

[0229] Example 37 is a UE including: a transceiver; memory including instructions; and one or more processors configured to execute the instructions to cause the UE to perform the method according to any one of Examples 29-33, wherein the transceiver is configured to receive the plurality of configurations.

[0230] Example 38 is a UE including: a transceiver; memory including instructions; and one or more processors configured to execute the instructions to cause the UE to perform the method according to Example 34, wherein the transceiver is configured to receive the configuration indicating a guard band for the PO.

[0231] Example 39 is an apparatus for wireless communication, including a unit for performing the method according to any one of Examples 1-14.

[0232] Example 40 is an apparatus for wireless communication, including a unit for performing the method according to any one of Examples 15-28.

[0233] Example 41 is an apparatus for wireless communication, including a unit for performing the method according to any one of Examples 29-33.

[0234] Example 42 is an apparatus for wireless communication, including a unit for performing the method according to Example 34.

[0235] Example 43 is a non-transitory computer-readable medium including instructions that, when executed by a device, cause the device to perform the method according to any one of Examples 1-14.

[0236] Example 44 is a non-transitory computer-readable medium including instructions that, when executed by a device, cause the device to perform the method according to any one of Examples 15-28.

[0237] Example 45 is a non-transitory computer-readable medium including instructions that, when executed by a device, cause the device to perform the method according to any one of Examples 29-33.

[0238] Example 46 is a non-transitory computer-readable medium including instructions that, when executed by a device, cause the device to perform the method according to Example 34.

[0239] Example 47 is a method for wireless communication at a user equipment (UE), comprising: obtaining a random access channel (RACH) configuration, wherein the RACH configuration associates a preamble signal with at least one entity uplink shared channel (PUSCH) timing (PO) for two-step random access, and wherein the PO spans a time interval greater than one time slot; and outputting repetition of PUSCH data in the at least one PO for transmission.

[0240] Example 48 is based on the method of Example 47, wherein the starting frequency or frequency span of the at least one PO changes between time slots or symbols.

[0241] Example 49 is the method according to any one of Examples 47 and 48, and also includes: outputting repetitions of the preceding signal in a plurality of RACH timings (ROs) for transmission.

[0242] Example 50 is the method according to any one of Examples 47-49, and also includes: outputting a single transport block including PUSCH data in the at least one PO for transmission.

[0243] Example 51 is the method according to any one of Examples 47-50, wherein the at least one PO includes intra-slot frequency hopping or inter-slot frequency hopping.

[0244] Example 52 is a method according to any one of Examples 47-51, wherein the RACH configuration is a first RACH configuration, wherein the preamble signal is a first preamble signal, and wherein the method also includes: obtaining a plurality of RACH configurations including the first RACH configuration and the second RACH configuration, wherein the second RACH configuration associates the second preamble signal with another PO for two-step random access.

[0245] Example 53 is the method according to any one of Examples 47-52, wherein the first RACH configuration is associated with a first UE capability and the second RACH configuration is associated with a second UE capability.

[0246] Example 54 is the method according to any one of Examples 47-53, wherein the first RACH configuration and the second RACH configuration differ in at least one of the protection time or the protection band, and wherein each of the first RACH configuration and the second RACH configuration is specific to a different preceding signal group.

[0247] Example 55 is the method according to any one of Examples 47-54, wherein the RACH configuration indicates a guard band for the PO, and wherein the guard band is indicated in units of subcarriers spanning less than one physical resource block (PRB).

[0248] Example 56 is a method for wireless communication at a user equipment (UE), comprising: obtaining a random access channel (RACH) configuration, wherein the RACH configuration associates a preamble signal with a plurality of entity uplink shared channel (PUSCH) timings (POs) for two-step random access; and outputting a repetition of PUSCH data in at least one of the plurality of POs for transmission.

[0249] Example 57 is based on the method of Example 56, wherein each of the plurality of POs includes at least one of a start time position, a time interval, a start frequency position, or a frequency interval.

[0250] Example 58 is the method according to any one of Examples 56 and 57, and also includes: outputting a repetition of the preceding signal in a plurality of RACH timings (ROs) for transmission.

[0251] Example 59 is the method according to any one of Examples 56-58, and also includes: outputting a single transport block including PUSCH data in at least one of the plurality of POs for transmission.

[0252] Example 60 is the method according to any one of Examples 56-59, wherein one or more of the plurality of POs include intra-slot frequency hopping or inter-slot frequency hopping.

[0253] Example 61 is a method according to any one of Examples 56-60, wherein the RACH configuration is a first RACH configuration, wherein the preamble signal is a first preamble signal, and wherein the method also includes: obtaining a plurality of RACH configurations including the first RACH configuration and the second RACH configuration, wherein the second RACH configuration associates the second preamble signal with another plurality of POs for two-step random access.

[0254] Example 62 is the method according to any one of Examples 56-61, wherein the first RACH configuration is associated with a first UE capability and the second RACH configuration is associated with a second UE capability.

[0255] Example 63 is the method according to any one of Examples 56-62, wherein the first RACH configuration and the second RACH configuration differ in at least one of the guard time or guard band, and wherein each of the first RACH configuration and the second RACH configuration is specific to a different preceding signal group.

[0256] Example 64 is the method according to any one of Examples 56-63, wherein the RACH configuration indicates a guard band for each of the plurality of POs, and wherein the guard band is indicated in units of subcarriers spanning less than one physical resource block (PRB).

[0257] Example 65 is a method for wireless communication at a base station (BS), comprising: outputting a random access channel (RACH) configuration for transmission, wherein the RACH configuration associates a preamble signal with at least one entity uplink shared channel (PUSCH) timing (PO) for two-step random access, and wherein the PO spans a time interval greater than one time slot; and obtaining repetition of PUSCH data in the at least one PO.

[0258] Example 66 is based on the method of Example 65, and also includes obtaining the repetition of the preceding signal at a plurality of RACH timings (ROs).

[0259] Example 67 is a method according to any one of Examples 65 and 66, wherein the RACH configuration is a first RACH configuration, wherein the preamble signal is a first preamble signal, and wherein the method also includes: obtaining a plurality of RACH configurations including the first RACH configuration and the second RACH configuration, wherein the second RACH configuration associates the second preamble signal with another PO for two-step random access.

[0260] Example 68 is the method according to any one of Examples 65-67, wherein the RACH configuration indicates a guard band for the PO, and wherein the guard band is indicated in units of subcarriers spanning less than one physical resource block (PRB).

[0261] Example 69 is a method for wireless communication at a base station (BS), comprising: outputting a random access channel (RACH) configuration for transmission, wherein the RACH configuration associates a preamble signal with a plurality of entity uplink shared channel (PUSCH) timings (POs) for two-step random access; and obtaining a repetition of PUSCH data in at least one of the plurality of POs.

[0262] Example 70 is based on the method of Example 69, and also includes obtaining the repetition of the preceding signal at a plurality of RACH timings (ROs).

[0263] Example 71 is the method according to any one of Examples 69 and 70, wherein the RACH configuration is a first RACH configuration, wherein the preamble signal is a first preamble signal, and wherein the method also includes: obtaining a plurality of RACH configurations including the first RACH configuration and the second RACH configuration, wherein the second RACH configuration associates the second preamble signal with another plurality of POs for two-step random access.

[0264] Example 72 is the method according to any one of Examples 69-71, wherein the RACH configuration indicates a guard band for each of the plurality of POs, and wherein the guard band is indicated in units of subcarriers spanning less than one physical resource block (PRB).

[0265] Example 73 is a UE including: a transceiver; memory including instructions; and one or more processors configured to execute the instructions to cause the UE to perform the method according to any one of Examples 47-55, wherein the transceiver is configured to: receive the RACH configuration; and transmit a repetition of PUSCH data in the at least one PO.

[0266] Example 74 is a UE including: a transceiver; memory including instructions; and one or more processors configured to execute the instructions to cause the UE to perform the method according to any one of Examples 56-64, wherein the transceiver is configured to: receive the RACH configuration; and transmit a repetition of PUSCH data in at least one of the plurality of POs.

[0267] Example 75 is a BS including: a transceiver; memory including instructions; and one or more processors configured to execute the instructions to cause the BS to perform the method according to any one of Examples 65-68, wherein the transceiver is configured to: transmit the RACH configuration; and receive repeats of PUSCH data in the at least one PO.

[0268] Example 76 is a BS including: a transceiver; memory including instructions; and one or more processors configured to execute the instructions to cause the BS to perform the method according to any one of Examples 69-72, wherein the transceiver is configured to: transmit the RACH configuration; and receive a repetition of PUSCH data in at least one of the plurality of POs.

[0269] Example 77 is an apparatus for wireless communication, including a unit for performing the method according to any one of Examples 47-55.

[0270] Example 78 is an apparatus for wireless communication, including a unit for performing the method according to any one of Examples 56-64.

[0271] Example 79 is an apparatus for wireless communication, including a unit for performing the method according to any one of Examples 65-68.

[0272] Example 80 is an apparatus for wireless communication, including a unit for performing the method according to any one of Examples 69-72.

[0273] Example 81 is a non-transitory computer-readable medium including instructions that, when executed by a device, cause the device to perform the method according to any one of Examples 47-55.

[0274] Example 82 is a non-transitory computer-readable medium including instructions that, when executed by a device, cause the device to perform the method according to any one of Examples 56-64.

[0275] Example 83 is a non-transitory computer-readable medium including instructions that, when executed by a device, cause the device to perform the method according to any one of Examples 65-68.

[0276] Example 84 is a non-transitory computer-readable medium including instructions that, when executed by a device, cause the device to perform the method according to any one of Examples 69-72.

[0277] 100: Wireless communication systems and access networks 102:Base station 102': Small cells 180:gNB 104: User Equipment (UE) 110: Geographical coverage area 110': Coverage area 120: Communication Link 132: First reload link 134: Third reload link 150: Wi-Fi Access Point (AP) 152: Wi-Fi Station (STA) 154: Communication Link 158:D2D communication link 160: Evolution Packet Core (EPC) 162: Management Entity (MME) 164: Other MMEs 166: Service Gateway 168: MBMS Gateway 170: Broadcast Multicast Service Center (BM-SC) 172: Packet Data Network (PDN) Gateway 174: Home User Server (HSS) 176: IP Service 182: Beamforming 182': Launch direction 182'': Receiving direction 184: Second reload link 190: Core Network 192: Access and Mobility Management Functions (AMF) 193: Other AMF 194: Communication Management Function (SMF) 195: User Plane Function (UPF) 196: Unified Data Management (UDM) 197: IP Service 198: Includes UE two-step RACH component 199:BS two-step RACH component +1 200: Figure 230: Figure 250: Figure 280: Figure 310:Base station 316: Launch (TX) processor 320: Antenna 350:UE 352: Antenna 354: Receiver 356: Receive (RX) Processor 358: Channel Estimator 359: Controller / Processor 360: Memory 368:TX processor 370: Receiver (RX) Processor 374: Channel Estimator 375: Controller / Processor 376: Memory 400: Instance 402:PO 404: Guard Band 406: Protection Time 408:msgA PUSCH slot 410: Precedence Signal 412:RO 414: Time Domain Offset 500: Instance 502:PO 504:PO 506: Start Time 508: Time interval 510: Starting frequency 512: Frequency span 600: Instance 602:PO 604:PO 606: DMRS mode 608: Orthogonal DMRS mode 610: Non-orthogonal DMRS mode 612: DMRS sequence 700: Instance 702:PO 704:PO 706:PUSCH repeated 708: scrambling sequence 800: Instance 802:PO 804:PO 806: Precedence Signal 808:RO 900: Instance 902:PO 904:PO 906:PUSCH repeated 908: Redundant Version 1000: Examples 1002:PO 1004:PO 1006:msgA PUSCH data 1008: Transport Block 1100: Example 1102:PO 1104:PO 1106:PO Configuration 1108: UE Capabilities 1110: GNSS capability 1112: Equipment Type 1114: Protection Time 1116: Guard Band 1118: Precedence Signal Group 1200: Examples 1202:PO 1204: Guard Band 1206: Protection Band Configuration 1208: Subcarrier 1300: Instance 1302:UE 1304:Base station 1306: NTN node 1308:RACH Configuration 1310:PO Configuration 1312: Two-step random access procedure 1314:msgA 1316: Precursor Signal 1318:PUSCH Data 1320:RO 1322:RO 1324:msgB 1326:RAR 1328: Conflict Resolution Message 1400: Flowchart 1402: Square 1404: Square 1406: Square 1408: Square 1410: Square 1500: Flowchart 1502: Square 1504: Square 1506: Square 1508: Square 1510: Square 1600: Flowchart 1602: Square 1700: Flowchart 1702: Square 1800: Flowchart 1802: Square 1804: Square 1806: Square 1808: Square 1810: Square 1900: Flowchart 1902: Square 1904: Square 1906: Square 1908: Square 1910: Square 2000: Flowchart 2002: Square 2100: Flowchart 2102: Square 2200: Figure 2202: Device 2204: Honeycomb Baseband Processor 2206: Application Processor 2208: Secure Digital (SD) Card 2210: Screen 2212: Bluetooth Module 2214: Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) Module 2216: Global Positioning System (GPS) Module 2218: Power Supply 2220: SIM Card 2222: Honeycomb RF Transceiver 2230: Receiver component 2232: Communication Manager 2234: Sending component 2240: RACH Configuration Component 2242: Precedence signal repeater 2244:PUSCH Data Repetitive Components 2246: PUSCH Transport Block Component 2248: Antenna switching component 2250:PO Configuration Component 2252: Protection Band Configuration Component 2300: Figure 2302: Device 2304: Baseband Unit 2330: Receiver component 2332: Communication Manager 2334: Sending Component 2340: RACH Configuration Component 2342: Precedence signal repeating component 2344: PUSCH Data Repetitive Components 2346: PUSCH Transport Block Component 2348:PUSCH Data Antenna Components 2350:PO Configuration Component 2352: Protection Band Configuration Component BWP: Bandwidth section CSI-RS: Channel Status Information Reference Signal PBCH: Physical Broadcast Channel PDCCH: Physical Downlink Control Channel PDSCH: Entity Downlink Shared Channel PSS: Primary Synchronization Signal PUCCH: Physical Uplink Control Channel PUSCH: Entity Uplink Shared Channel RB: Resource Block SRS: Detection Reference Signal SSS: Secondary Synchronization Signal

[0278] Domestic storage information (please note in order of storage institution, date, and number) none Overseas storage information (please note in the order of storage country, institution, date, and number) none

Claims

1. A device for wireless communication, comprising: At least one transceiver; At least one memory, including instructions; and one or more processors configured to execute the instructions to cause the device to: receive a random access channel (RACH) configuration via the at least one transceiver, wherein the RACH configuration associates a preamble signal with at least one physical uplink shared channel (PUSCH) timing (PO), wherein the at least one PO spans a time interval greater than one time slot, wherein the RACH configuration indicates a guard band for the at least one PO, and wherein the guard band is indicated in units of subcarriers spanning less than one physical resource block (PRB); and transmit repeats of PUSCH data in the at least one PO via the at least one transceiver.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a frequency span of the at least one PO changes between time slots or symbols.

3. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the one or more processors are also configured to cause the apparatus to perform the following operation: transmit repetitions of the preceding signal at a plurality of RACH times (ROs) via the at least one transceiver.

4. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the one or more processors are also configured to cause the apparatus to perform the following operation: transmit a single transport block including PUSCH data in the at least one PO via the at least one transceiver.

5. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the at least one PO includes in-slot frequency hopping or inter-slot frequency hopping.

6. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the RACH configuration is a first RACH configuration, wherein the preamble signal is a first preamble signal, and wherein the one or more processors are also configured to cause the apparatus to perform the following operation: receiving, via the at least one transceiver, a plurality of RACH configurations including the first RACH configuration and a second RACH configuration, wherein the second RACH configuration associates a second preamble signal with another PO.

7. The apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the first RACH configuration is associated with a first UE capability and the second RACH configuration is associated with a second UE capability, wherein the first UE capability and the second UE capability correspond to at least one of a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) capability of the UE or a physical configuration of the UE.

8. The apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the first RACH configuration and the second RACH configuration are different in at least one of a protection time or a protection band, and wherein each of the first RACH configuration and the second RACH configuration is specific to a different preamble group.

9. The apparatus according to request item 1, wherein the apparatus is configured as a user equipment (UE).

10. An apparatus for wireless communication, comprising: At least one transceiver; At least one memory, including instructions; and one or more processors configured to execute the instructions to cause the device to: receive a random access channel (RACH) configuration via the at least one transceiver, wherein the RACH configuration associates a preamble signal with a plurality of physical uplink shared channel (PUSCH) timings (POs), wherein the plurality of POs includes a first PO and a second PO, wherein the RACH configuration indicates a guard band between the first PO and the second PO, and wherein the guard band is indicated in units of subcarriers spanning less than one physical resource block (PRB); and transmit repetitions of PUSCH data via the at least one transceiver in at least one of the plurality of POs.

11. The apparatus according to claim 10, wherein each of the plurality of POs includes at least one of a start time position, a time interval, a start frequency position, or a frequency interval.

12. The apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the one or more processors are also configured to cause the apparatus to perform the following operation: transmit repetitions of the preceding signal at a plurality of RACH times (RO) via the at least one transceiver.

13. The apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the one or more processors are also configured to cause the apparatus to perform the following operation: transmit a single transport block including PUSCH data in at least one of the plurality of POs via the at least one transceiver.

14. The apparatus according to claim 10, wherein one or more of the plurality of POs include in-slot frequency hopping or inter-slot frequency hopping.

15. The apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the RACH configuration is a first RACH configuration, wherein the preamble signal is a first preamble signal, and wherein the one or more processors are also configured to cause the apparatus to perform the following operation: receiving, via the at least one transceiver, a plurality of RACH configurations including the first RACH configuration and a second RACH configuration, wherein the second RACH configuration associates a second preamble signal with another plurality of POs.

16. The apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the first RACH configuration is associated with a first UE capability, and the second RACH configuration is associated with a second UE capability, and wherein the first UE capability and the second UE capability correspond to at least one of a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) capability of the UE or a physical configuration of the UE.

17. The apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the first RACH configuration and the second RACH configuration are different in at least one of a protection time or a protection band, and wherein each of the first RACH configuration and the second RACH configuration is specific to a different preamble group.

18. The apparatus according to request item 10, wherein the apparatus is configured as a user equipment (UE).

19. An apparatus for wireless communication, comprising: At least one transceiver; At least one memory, including instructions; and one or more processors configured to execute the instructions to cause the device to: transmit a random access channel (RACH) configuration via the at least one transceiver, wherein the RACH configuration associates a preamble signal with at least one physical uplink shared channel (PUSCH) timing (PO), wherein the at least one PO spans a time interval greater than one time slot, wherein the RACH configuration indicates a guard band for the at least one PO, and wherein the guard band is indicated in units of subcarriers spanning less than one physical resource block (PRB); and receive repetitions of PUSCH data in the at least one PO via the at least one transceiver.

20. The apparatus according to claim 19, wherein the one or more processors also cause the apparatus to perform the following operation: receiving repetitions of the preceding signal at a plurality of RACH times (RO) via the at least one transceiver.

21. The apparatus according to claim 19, wherein the RACH configuration is a first RACH configuration, wherein the preamble signal is a first preamble signal, and wherein the one or more processors are also configured to cause the apparatus to perform the following operation: receiving, via the at least one transceiver, a plurality of RACH configurations including the first RACH configuration and a second RACH configuration, wherein the second RACH configuration associates a second preamble signal with another PO.

22. The apparatus according to claim 19, wherein the apparatus is configured as a base station (BS).

23. The apparatus according to claim 19, wherein a frequency span of the at least one PO changes between time slots or symbols.

24. An apparatus for wireless communication, comprising: At least one transceiver; At least one memory, including instructions; and one or more processors configured to execute the instructions to cause the device to: transmit a random access channel (RACH) configuration via the at least one transceiver, wherein the RACH configuration associates a preamble signal with a plurality of entity uplink shared channel (PUSCH) timings (POs), wherein the plurality of POs includes a first PO and a second PO, wherein the RACH configuration indicates a guard band between the first PO and the second PO, and wherein the guard band is indicated in units of subcarriers spanning less than one entity resource block (PRB); and receive repetitions of PUSCH data via the at least one transceiver in at least one of the plurality of POs.

25. The apparatus according to claim 24, wherein the one or more processors also cause the apparatus to perform the following operation: receiving repetitions of the preceding signal at a plurality of RACH times (RO) via the at least one transceiver.

26. The apparatus according to claim 24, wherein the RACH configuration is a first RACH configuration, wherein the preamble signal is a first preamble signal, and wherein the one or more processors are also configured to cause the apparatus to perform the following operation: receiving, via the at least one transceiver, a plurality of RACH configurations including the first RACH configuration and a second RACH configuration, wherein the second RACH configuration associates a second preamble signal with another plurality of POs.

27. The apparatus according to claim 24, wherein the apparatus is configured as a base station (BS).

28. The apparatus according to claim 24, wherein a frequency span of the plurality of POs changes between time slots or symbols.

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