Communication method and apparatus

Abstract

The present application relates to the technical field of communications, and in particular to a communication method and apparatus. The present application can be applied to the IEEE 802.11ax standard, the 802.11be standard, the 802.11bn standard, and other standards of the IEEE 802.11 series, such as the 802.15 standard, the 802.11bf standard, the IMMW standard or the SparkLink standard. In the method provided in embodiments of the present application, a type of non-AP STA can be isolated by means of a dedicated frequency band, such that the type of non-AP STA can be associated with the dedicated frequency band when a condition is satisfied. Therefore, the contention delay and access delay of the type of non-AP STA are reduced.

Description

Communication methods and devices

[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202510066281.9, filed on January 15, 2025, with the China National Intellectual Property Administration, entitled "Communication Method and Apparatus", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This application relates to the field of communication technology, and in particular to a communication method and apparatus. Background Technology

[0003] With the rise of emerging services in home networks, the demand for superior wireless local area network (WLAN) experiences is increasing. WLAN networks face numerous challenges in ensuring a smooth user experience, such as uplink contention and network congestion. WLAN networks employ a carrier-aware multiple access with collision avoidance (CSMA / CA) mechanism for channel access.

[0004] The CSMA / CA mechanism can solve the interference problem caused by multiple sites using the channel simultaneously. For example, a site with transmission needs listens to the channel. When the channel is busy, the site cannot transmit; when the channel is idle, the site performs random backoff (i.e., continues to wait for a random period of time). The random uplink contention of the CSMA / CA mechanism among multiple sites can lead to uncontrollable latency. The more sites there are, the more uncontrollable the access latency becomes.

[0005] Therefore, how to reduce access latency is an urgent issue to be addressed. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This application provides a communication method and apparatus that can effectively reduce site access latency.

[0007] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a communication method applied to a first device. The first device may be a station (STA) (or a non-access point station (non-AP STA)). The method includes:

[0008] Receive first indication information, which indicates whether the second device has a dedicated frequency band, which is a frequency band that the first device cannot directly associate with; parse the first indication information.

[0009] In other words, the dedicated frequency bands are not publicly available to websites. Or, only websites that meet certain conditions can associate with the dedicated frequency bands.

[0010] The first device parses the first instruction information, including: the first device determines whether the second device has a dedicated frequency band based on the first instruction information.

[0011] The second device can be an access point (AP), etc.

[0012] In this embodiment, the first device learns whether the second device has a dedicated frequency band through first indication information. Based on this first indication information, the first device determines whether it can successfully associate with the dedicated frequency band. Subsequently, the first device can perform frequency band isolation, reducing its access latency. Frequency band isolation refers to the isolation between dedicated and non-dedicated frequency bands.

[0013] Alternatively, in this embodiment, the first device learns whether the second device has a dedicated frequency band through the first indication information, thereby determining whether the second device has performed frequency band isolation. When frequency band isolation is performed, since not all sites can be associated with a dedicated frequency band, the access latency of sites that can be associated with a dedicated frequency band can be effectively reduced.

[0014] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the first indication information includes information indicating a dedicated frequency band.

[0015] For example, the first indication information is used to indicate that the second device has a dedicated frequency band. Alternatively, the first indication information is used to indicate that the second device does not have a dedicated frequency band. Or, the first indication information includes information indicating a dedicated frequency band, which can indicate that the second device has a dedicated frequency band; or, the first indication information does not include information indicating a dedicated frequency band, then it indicates that the second device does not have a dedicated frequency band. Furthermore, the first indication information is used to indicate that the second device has a dedicated frequency band, and also to indicate a dedicated frequency band.

[0016] The first indication information may be carried in a management frame. Optionally, the first indication information may be carried in any of the following frames: beacon frame, association response frame, probe response frame, or reassociation response frame.

[0017] In this embodiment of the application, by indicating specific dedicated frequency bands, the first device can clearly know which frequency bands are dedicated, thereby improving communication efficiency.

[0018] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the method further includes:

[0019] The first device receives second instruction information, which includes information indicating a dedicated frequency band.

[0020] The first indication information and the second indication information can be carried in different frames. For example, the first indication information can be carried in a beacon frame, and the second indication information can be carried in an association request frame, a probe request frame, or a reassociation request frame.

[0021] In this embodiment, the first device learns from the first indication information that the second device does not have a dedicated frequency band. Therefore, the first device can choose not to connect to the second device (or not to continue associating with the second device, or not to continue the detection process, etc.), and instead select another access point (AP), saving the first device's waiting time and power consumption. Alternatively, if the first device learns from the first indication information that the second device has a dedicated frequency band, the first device determines that it can associate with the second device (or determines that it may associate with the second device). Thus, the first device can initiate an association process or a detection process, and the second device can then inform the first device of the specific frequency band, improving association efficiency (or detection efficiency) and flexibility.

[0022] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the method further includes:

[0023] The first device receives third indication information, which indicates whether the second device has the capability to meet the requirements of a dedicated service carried on a dedicated frequency band. Alternatively, the third indication information indicates whether the second device can meet the requirements of the dedicated service (such as, but not limited to, network requirements). Or, the third indication information indicates whether the second device can provide experience guarantees (such as network guarantees) for the dedicated service.

[0024] For example, the first indication information and the third indication information are carried in the same frame. Or, for example, the first indication information and the third indication information are carried in different frames.

[0025] In this embodiment, the first device can further know whether the second device has the capability to meet the dedicated service through the third indication information, and thus determine whether it can be successfully associated with the dedicated frequency band based on the first indication information and the third indication information. Subsequently, the first device can perform frequency band isolation to reduce the access latency of the first device.

[0026] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the third indication information is carried in a dedicated service field. The value of the dedicated service field is a first value indicating that the second device has the capability to satisfy the dedicated service, and the value of the dedicated service field is a second value indicating that the second device does not have the capability to satisfy the dedicated service.

[0027] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the third instruction information indicates that the second device has the capability to satisfy a dedicated service, which includes at least one of the following: the latency capability that the second device can provide according to the dedicated service, the throughput capability that the second device can provide according to the dedicated service, or the packet loss rate capability that the second device can provide according to the dedicated service.

[0028] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation, where the third indication information indicates that the second device does not have the capability to satisfy the dedicated service, the method further includes: the first device receiving recommendation information, which is used by the second device to recommend candidate APs that have the capability to satisfy the dedicated service.

[0029] If the third instruction information and the recommendation information are carried in the same frame, the first device can quickly reselect the AP and access it based on the recommendation information.

[0030] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the method further includes:

[0031] The first device sends a fourth instruction message, which is used to indicate whether the first device has a dedicated service.

[0032] The fourth instruction information may be carried in a management frame. Alternatively, the fourth instruction information may be carried in any of the following: an association request frame, a re-association request frame, or a probe request frame.

[0033] In this embodiment, a STA with dedicated services can be associated with a dedicated frequency band, thereby isolating the dedicated frequency band from the non-dedicated frequency band. This allows STAs with dedicated services and those without dedicated services to be isolated, reducing contention latency and access latency for STAs with dedicated services. Optionally, non-dedicated services will not cause congestion for dedicated services, and STAs without dedicated services will not simultaneously compete for air interface access with STAs with dedicated services.

[0034] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation, where the first device has a dedicated service and the second device has a dedicated frequency band, the first device is associated with the dedicated frequency band.

[0035] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the first device is associated with the dedicated frequency band when the first device has a dedicated service and the second device has a dedicated frequency band and the ability to satisfy the dedicated service.

[0036] Alternatively, under certain conditions, the first device can be associated with a dedicated frequency band. These conditions include: the first device has a dedicated service, and the second device has a dedicated frequency band. Optionally, these conditions also include that the second device has the capability to fulfill the dedicated service.

[0037] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the dedicated service satisfies at least one of the following:

[0038] Dedicated services are predefined services; dedicated services have a higher priority than non-dedicated services; dedicated services have higher latency requirements than non-dedicated services; dedicated services have higher throughput requirements than non-dedicated services; or, dedicated services have higher packet loss rate requirements than non-dedicated services.

[0039] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a communication method applied to a second device. The method includes:

[0040] Generate first indication information, which is used to indicate whether the second device has a dedicated frequency band, which is a frequency band that the first device cannot directly associate with; send the first indication information.

[0041] In conjunction with the second aspect, in one possible implementation, the method further includes:

[0042] The second device sends a second instruction message, which includes information indicating a dedicated frequency band.

[0043] In conjunction with the second aspect, in one possible implementation, the method further includes:

[0044] The second device sends a third indication message, which is used to indicate whether the second device has the capability to meet the exclusive service, which is carried on an exclusive frequency band.

[0045] In conjunction with the second aspect, in one possible implementation, the method further includes:

[0046] The second device receives a fourth indication message, which is used to indicate whether the first device has a dedicated service.

[0047] For explanations of the beneficial effects, first instruction information, second instruction information, third instruction information, or fourth instruction information involved in the second aspect, please refer to the first aspect, and will not be elaborated here.

[0048] Thirdly, embodiments of this application provide a first apparatus for performing the method in the first aspect or any possible implementation. The first apparatus includes modules for performing the method in the first aspect or any possible implementation.

[0049] The first device includes a processing module and a transceiver module. The transceiver module is used to perform the sending or receiving actions in the first aspect or any possible implementation, and the processing module is used to perform the processing actions in the first aspect or any possible implementation.

[0050] As an example, the first device is a T-node, or a functional module, circuit, or chip that can be set in a T-node, or a device that can be used in conjunction with a T-node. As another example, the first device is a station (STA), or a functional module, circuit, or chip that can be set in an STA, or a device that can be used in conjunction with an STA.

[0051] Fourthly, embodiments of this application provide a second apparatus for performing the method in the second aspect, the third aspect, or any possible implementation. The second apparatus includes modules for performing the method in the second aspect, the third aspect, or any possible implementation.

[0052] The second device includes a processing module and a transceiver module. The transceiver module is used to perform the sending or receiving actions in the second aspect or any possible implementation, and the processing module is used to perform the processing actions in the second aspect or any possible implementation.

[0053] As an example, the second device is a G-node, or a functional module, circuit, or chip that can be set in a G-node, or a device that can be used in conjunction with a G-node. As another example, the second device is an access point (AP), or a functional module, circuit, or chip that can be set in an AP, or a device that can be used in conjunction with an AP.

[0054] The modules in the third or fourth aspect can also be replaced with units or means, etc. The aforementioned modules can be implemented in software, hardware, or a combination of both.

[0055] Fifthly, embodiments of this application provide a first apparatus comprising at least one processor for executing the method of the first aspect or any possible implementation thereof. The processor executes a program stored in a memory, and when the program is executed, the method of the first aspect or any possible implementation thereof is executed.

[0056] In one possible implementation, the memory is located outside the first device described above.

[0057] In one possible implementation, the memory is located within the first device described above.

[0058] In this embodiment of the application, the processor and memory can also be integrated into a single device, that is, the processor and memory can be integrated together.

[0059] In one possible implementation, the first device further includes a transceiver for receiving information (or inputting information) or transmitting information (or outputting information). The transceiver may be an input / output interface or may include an antenna with transceiver functionality.

[0060] A transceiver is used to send or output first indication information; a processor is used to parse the first indication information.

[0061] In one possible implementation, the transceiver is also used to receive or input second instruction information.

[0062] In one possible implementation, the transceiver is also used to receive or input third instruction information.

[0063] In one possible implementation, the transceiver is also used to send or output a fourth indication message.

[0064] Sixthly, embodiments of this application provide a second apparatus comprising at least one processor for executing the methods of the second aspect, the third aspect, or any possible implementation thereof. The processor executes a program stored in a memory, and when the program is executed, the methods of the second aspect or any possible implementation thereof are performed.

[0065] In one possible implementation, the memory is located outside the second device described above.

[0066] In one possible implementation, the memory is located within the second device described above.

[0067] In this embodiment of the application, the processor and memory can also be integrated into a single device, that is, the processor and memory can be integrated together.

[0068] In one possible implementation, the second device further includes a transceiver for receiving information (or inputting information) or transmitting information (or outputting information). The transceiver may be an input / output interface or may include an antenna with transceiver functionality.

[0069] The processor is used to generate the first indication information; the transceiver is used to send or output the first indication information.

[0070] In one possible implementation, the transceiver is also used to send or output a second indication message.

[0071] In one possible implementation, the transceiver is also used to send or output third instruction information.

[0072] In one possible implementation, the transceiver is also used to receive or input fourth instruction information.

[0073] In a seventh aspect, embodiments of this application provide a chip including logic circuitry and an interface, the logic circuitry and the interface being coupled to enable the chip to implement the methods as described in the first aspect or any possible implementation.

[0074] Eighthly, embodiments of this application provide a chip including logic circuitry and an interface, the logic circuitry and the interface being coupled to enable the chip to implement the methods as described in the second aspect or any possible implementation.

[0075] Ninthly, embodiments of this application provide a computer-readable storage medium for storing a computer program that, when run on a computer, causes the methods shown in any of the first to second aspects or any possible implementation thereof to be executed.

[0076] This computer program can also be called an instruction, or computer instruction, etc. That is, a computer program can be replaced by an instruction or computer instruction.

[0077] In a tenth aspect, embodiments of this application provide a computer program product that, when run on a computer, causes the methods in any of the first to second aspects or any possible implementations described above to be executed.

[0078] The computers shown in the tenth or eleventh aspect include, but are not limited to, G nodes, T nodes, APs, or STAs.

[0079] Eleventhly, embodiments of this application provide a communication system. This measurement system includes a first device and a second device. The first device may be the device provided in the third, fifth, and seventh aspects, and the second device may be the device provided in the fourth, sixth, and eighth aspects. The first device may be used to execute the method in the first aspect or any possible implementation thereof, and the second device may be used to execute the method in the second aspect or any possible implementation thereof. Attached Figure Description

[0080] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of an architecture of a communication system provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0081] Figure 2 is a flowchart illustrating the communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0082] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of a scenario of the communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0083] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of another scenario of the communication method provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0084] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of a device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0085] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of another device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0086] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of the chip provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0087] To facilitate understanding of the technical solution of this application, the application will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0088] The terms "first" and "second," etc., used in the specification, claims, and drawings of this application are used only to distinguish different objects and not to describe a specific order. Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, system, product, or apparatus that includes a series of steps or units is not limited to the listed steps or units, but may optionally include steps or units not listed, or may optionally include other steps or units inherent to these processes, methods, products, or apparatuses.

[0089] The term "embodiment" as used herein means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment of this application. The appearance of this phrase in various places throughout the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it a separate or alternative embodiment mutually exclusive with other embodiments. It will be explicitly and implicitly understood by those skilled in the art that the embodiments described herein can be combined with other embodiments.

[0090] In this application, "at least one (item)" refers to one or more, "more than one" refers to two or more, "at least two (items)" refers to two or three or more, and "and / or" is used to describe the relationship between related objects, indicating that there can be three relationships. For example, "A and / or B" can mean: only A exists, only B exists, and both A and B exist simultaneously, where A and B can be singular or plural. "Or" indicates that there can be two relationships, such as only A exists and only B exists; when A and B are not mutually exclusive, it can also mean that there are three relationships, such as only A exists, only B exists, and both A and B exist simultaneously. The character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects are in an "or" relationship. "At least one (item) of the following" or similar expressions refer to any combination of these items. For example, at least one (item) of a, b, or c can mean: a, b, c, "a and b", "a and c", "b and c", or "a and b and c".

[0091] In this application, "send" and "receive" indicate the direction of signal transmission. For example, "send information to XX" can be understood as the destination of the information being XX, which can include direct transmission via the air interface or indirect transmission via the air interface from other units or modules. "Receive information from YY" can be understood as the source of the information being YY, which can include direct reception from YY via the air interface or indirect reception from YY via the air interface from other units or modules. "Send" can also be understood as the "output" of a chip interface, and "receive" can also be understood as the "input" of a chip interface. In other words, sending and receiving can occur between devices, such as between network devices and terminal devices, or within a device, such as between components, modules, chips, software modules, or hardware modules within the device via buses, traces, or interfaces.

[0092] In this application, the dashed lines in the accompanying drawings indicate that they are optional.

[0093] The following describes the communication system involved in this application.

[0094] The technical solutions provided in this application can be applied to wireless local area network (WLAN) systems, such as Wi-Fi standards or the World WLAN Application Alliance (WAA). For example, the methods provided in this application can be applied to the IEEE 802.11 series standards, such as 802.11a / b / g, 802.11bf, 802.11az, 802.11bk, 802.11n, 802.11ac, 802.11ax, 802.11be, 802.11bn, or next-generation standards, and further examples include 802.11ad, 802.11ay, 802.11bq, or next-generation standards, which will not be listed here. The technical solutions provided in this application can also be applied to wireless personal area networks (WPANs) based on ultra-wideband (UWB) technology. The technical solutions provided in this application can also be applied to millimeter wave (MMW) technology, including integrated millimeter wave (IMMW). For example, the methods provided in this application can be applied to the IEEE 802.15 series standards, such as 802.15.4a, 802.15.4z, or 802.15.4ab, or a future generation of UWB WPAN standards, or star-flash, etc., and will not be listed exhaustively. The technical solutions provided in this application can also be applied to the following communication systems, such as Internet of Things (IoT) systems, vehicle-to-everything (V2X) systems, narrowband Internet of Things (NB-IoT) systems, long term evolution (LTE) systems, 5th generation (5G) communication systems, and new communication systems emerging in future communication development.

[0095] WLAN systems can provide high-speed, low-latency transmission. As WLAN application scenarios continue to evolve, WLAN systems will be applied to more scenarios or industries, such as the Internet of Things industry, the Internet of Vehicles industry, the banking industry, enterprise offices, stadiums and exhibition halls, concert halls, hotel rooms, dormitories, hospital wards, classrooms, shopping malls, squares, streets, production workshops and warehouses, etc. Of course, devices that support WLAN communication or sensing (such as access points or sites) can be sensor nodes in smart cities (such as smart water meters, smart electricity meters, and smart air monitoring nodes), smart devices in smart homes (such as smart cameras, projectors, displays, televisions, speakers, refrigerators, and washing machines), nodes in the Internet of Things (IoT), entertainment terminals (such as wearable devices for augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR), smart devices in smart offices (such as printers, projectors, loudspeakers, and speakers), vehicle-to-everything (V2X) devices, infrastructure in daily life scenarios (such as vending machines, self-service navigation kiosks in supermarkets, self-service checkout machines, and self-service ordering machines), and equipment in large sports and music venues.

[0096] Although the embodiments of this application primarily use WLAN as an example, especially networks applied to the IEEE 802.11 series of standards, the various aspects involved in the embodiments of this application can be extended to other networks employing various standards or protocols. For example, Bluetooth, high-performance radio LAN (HIPERLAN) (a wireless standard similar to the IEEE 802.11 standard, mainly used in Europe), and wide area networks (WANs) or other networks now known or to be developed in the future.

[0097] In one possible implementation, the method provided in this application embodiment can be implemented by a communication device in a communication system. That is, the communication device is used to implement the method provided in this application embodiment. The communication device includes a first device or a second device.

[0098] As an example, the first device is a non-AP STA, and the second device is an AP. As another example, the first device is a terminal (T) node, and the second device is a management node (G node). G nodes and T nodes are the nodes involved in the StarScan standard. For example, a T node can be a barcode, radio frequency identification (RFID), sensor, global positioning system (GPS), LiDAR, battery cell, a mobile phone with positioning capabilities, wearable device, personal digital assistant (PDA), positioning card, or positioning terminal, etc. As yet another example, the first device is a terminal device, and the second device is a network device. The specific types of the first and second devices will not be listed here. For ease of description, the following explanation uses AP and non-AP STA as examples.

[0099] An access point is a device with wireless communication capabilities, supporting communication or sensing using WLAN standards. It has the ability to communicate or sense other devices in the WLAN network (such as non-AP STAs or other access points), and can also communicate or sense other devices. Alternatively, an access point acts as a bridge connecting wired and wireless networks, primarily connecting various wireless network clients together and then connecting the wireless network to the Ethernet. In a WLAN system, an access point can be called an Access Point Station (AP STA). This wireless communication device can be a complete device, or it can be a chip, processing system, or functional module installed in a complete device. Devices with these chips, processing systems, or functional modules can implement the methods and functions of the embodiments of this application under the control of the chips, processing systems, or functional modules. The AP in the embodiments of this application is a device that provides services to non-AP STAs and can support the 802.11 series standards or subsequent standards. For example, an access point can be an access point for terminals (such as mobile phones) to enter a wired (or wireless) network, mainly deployed in homes, buildings, and parks, with a typical coverage radius of tens to hundreds of meters; it can also be deployed outdoors. For example, an AP can be a communication server, router, switch, bridge, mobile phone, or computer; APs can include various forms of macro base stations, micro base stations, and repeater stations. Of course, an AP can also be an AP belonging to a multi-link device (MLD), or a co-located AP, etc.

[0100] A non-AP STA is a device with wireless communication capabilities that supports communication or sensing using WLAN standards and has the ability to communicate or sense other non-AP STAs or access points in a WLAN network. For example, a non-AP STA is any user communication device that allows a user to communicate or sense with an AP and thus communicate with the WLAN. This device with wireless communication capabilities can be a complete device, or it can be a chip, processing system, or functional module installed in a complete device. Devices with these chips, processing systems, or functional modules can implement the methods and functions of the embodiments of this application under the control of the chips, processing systems, or functional modules. For example, a non-AP STA can be a wireless communication chip, a wireless sensor, or a wireless communication terminal, and can also be referred to as a user. Another example is a non-AP STA that supports Wi-Fi communication, such as a mobile phone, a tablet computer, a set-top box, a smart TV, a smart wearable device, an in-vehicle communication device, or a computer. Of course, a non-AP STA can also be a non-AP STA belonging to an MLD or a co-located STA.

[0101] A multi-link device comprises multiple affiliated sites, which can be physical or logical sites. Each site can operate on a link, a frequency band, or a channel, etc. The affiliated sites shown here can be APs or non-AP STAs.

[0102] Alternatively, for an MLD, the dedicated frequency band can also be a dedicated AP belonging to that MLD, or a dedicated link.

[0103] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of an architecture of a communication system provided in an embodiment of this application. The communication system includes at least one AP (or AP MLD) and at least one non-AP STA (or non-AP MLD). Figure 1 exemplarily shows one AP and two non-AP STAs, such as non-AP STA1 and non-AP STA2.

[0104] Figure 1 uses a non-AP STA as a mobile phone and an AP as a router as an example, and does not imply any limitation on the AP and non-AP STA types in the embodiments of this application.

[0105] The method provided in this application isolates non-AP STAs with dedicated service requirements from those without, or isolates dedicated and non-dedicated services, effectively reducing contention latency and access latency for non-AP STAs with dedicated service requirements. The method also ensures that non-AP STAs associated with dedicated frequency bands have dedicated service requirements, or that non-AP STAs with dedicated service requirements can successfully associate with dedicated frequency bands.

[0106] Figure 2 is a flowchart illustrating the communication method provided in an embodiment of this application. The descriptions of the first and second devices involved in this method are as above and will not be detailed here. As shown in Figure 2, the method includes:

[0107] 201. The second device sends a first indication message, which indicates whether the second device has a dedicated frequency band, which is a frequency band that the first device cannot directly associate with. Correspondingly, the first device receives the first indication message.

[0108] In other words, the dedicated frequency band is not publicly available to non-AP STAs. Alternatively, only non-AP STAs that meet certain conditions can associate with the dedicated frequency band. Or, not all non-AP STAs can associate with the dedicated frequency band; only those meeting certain conditions can successfully associate with it.

[0109] For example, a dedicated frequency band can be a predefined frequency band (such as a frequency band predefined by a standard), a frequency band configured by the AP, or a frequency band negotiated by the first device and the second device. Optionally, different second devices may correspond to the same dedicated frequency band, or different second devices may correspond to different dedicated frequency bands. The dedicated services carried by different dedicated frequency bands may be the same or different, and this application embodiment does not limit this.

[0110] Dedicated frequency bands can be used to carry dedicated services. In other words, dedicated services are carried on transmission frequency bands. Dedicated services can satisfy at least one of the following: the dedicated service is a predefined service (e.g., defined by the operator or a standard); the dedicated service has a higher priority than non-dedicated services; the dedicated service has higher latency requirements than non-dedicated services; the dedicated service has higher throughput requirements than non-dedicated services; the dedicated service has higher packet loss rate requirements than non-dedicated services; or, the dedicated service is a high-value service. For example, dedicated services can be gaming services, live streaming services, VR services, etc., and will not be listed exhaustively. The embodiments of this application do not limit the number of dedicated services.

[0111] As an example, a non-AP STA with dedicated services, and the AP that the non-AP STA is to be associated with has a dedicated frequency band, can be associated with the dedicated frequency band.

[0112] As another example, a non-AP STA with dedicated services, and the AP to which the non-AP STA is to be associated has a dedicated frequency band, and the AP has the capability to meet the dedicated services, can be associated with the dedicated frequency band.

[0113] As another example, a non-AP STA cannot be associated with a dedicated frequency band if the following conditions are met: the AP the non-AP STA wants to associate with does not have a dedicated frequency band; the AP the non-AP STA wants to associate with does not have the capability to fulfill the dedicated service; or the non-AP STA does not have the dedicated service. For example, if the AP the non-AP STA wants to associate with has a dedicated frequency band, but the non-AP STA does not have the dedicated service, the non-AP STA cannot associate with that dedicated frequency band. Or, if the AP the non-AP STA wants to associate with does not have a dedicated frequency band, but the non-AP STA has the dedicated service, the non-AP STA cannot associate with that dedicated frequency band. Or, if the AP the non-AP STA wants to associate with does not have a dedicated frequency band, the non-AP STA does not have the dedicated service, and the AP does not have the capability to fulfill the dedicated service. These are just a few examples.

[0114] The following describes the first instruction information involved in the embodiments of this application. For ease of reference, different numbers are used below to represent different implementation methods, and these numbers should not be construed as limiting the embodiments of this application.

[0115] As one possible implementation, the first indication information is used to indicate whether the second device has a dedicated frequency band. For example, if the first indication information is carried in an exclusive traffic band, this is merely an example and not intended to limit the embodiments of this application.

[0116] For example, a dedicated service frequency band includes one bit, which indicates whether the second device has a dedicated frequency band. The relationship between the value and meaning of this bit is as follows: 1 indicates that the second device has a dedicated frequency band; 0 indicates that the second device does not have a dedicated frequency band. Of course, the relationship between the value and meaning shown here is merely an example; it could also be: 0 indicates that the second device has a dedicated frequency band, and 1 indicates that the second device does not have a dedicated frequency band. The embodiments of this application do not limit the relationship between the value and its meaning.

[0117] Tables 1 and 2 exemplify the dedicated service frequency band field. This dedicated service frequency band field can be included in the capability information feature field. As shown in Table 1, the first x bits of this capability information feature field indicate the AP's capabilities, and the (x+1)th bit indicates whether the AP has a dedicated frequency band. For example, the first x bits indicate the capabilities involved in the WLAN 7+ standard. x is a positive integer.

[0118] Table 1

[0119] As shown in Table 2, the capability information feature fields include the dedicated service frequency band field. That is to say, compared with the capability information feature fields shown in Table 1, it may not include existing capabilities involved in the WLAN7+ standard.

[0120] Table 2

[0121] For example, a dedicated service frequency band consists of multiple bits, and the relationship between the values ​​and meanings of these multiple bits is as follows: the first value indicates that the second device has a dedicated frequency band, and the second value indicates that the second device does not have a dedicated frequency band.

[0122] For example, a dedicated service frequency band includes a bitmap where the first bit indicates that the second device has a dedicated frequency band, and the second bit indicates that the second device does not have a dedicated frequency band. Alternatively, the bitmap may have a bit with a value of 1 indicating that the second device has a dedicated frequency band, and no bit with a value of 1 indicating that the second device does not have a dedicated frequency band.

[0123] As another possible implementation 2, the first indication information includes information indicating a dedicated frequency band, or the first indication information does not include information indicating a dedicated frequency band. If the first indication information includes information indicating a dedicated frequency band, it indicates that the second device has a dedicated frequency band. If the first indication information does not include information indicating a dedicated frequency band, it indicates that the second device does not have a dedicated frequency band.

[0124] As an example, the information indicating a dedicated frequency band includes at least one of the following: an index indicating the dedicated frequency band, a frequency range indicating the dedicated frequency band, or a channel number indicating the dedicated frequency band.

[0125] For example, one frequency band corresponds to one index, and the first indication information includes the index indicating the dedicated frequency band.

[0126] For example, the first indication information includes at least one of the following: indicating the start frequency of the dedicated frequency band, indicating the end frequency of the dedicated frequency band, or indicating the frequency length of the dedicated frequency band. When the frequency length of each frequency band is fixed, the first indication information may include at least one of the following: indicating the start frequency of the dedicated frequency band or indicating the end frequency of the dedicated frequency band.

[0127] For example, the first indication information includes at least one of the following: indicating the starting channel number of the dedicated frequency band, indicating the ending channel number of the dedicated frequency band, or indicating the channel number length of the dedicated frequency band.

[0128] For example, the frequency range used by WLAN is 5170MHz–5835MHz. The 5.2GHz band can be 5170MHz–5330MHz (e.g., channel numbers 36–64), the 5.5GHz band can be 5490MHz–5710MHz (e.g., channel numbers 100–140), and the 5.8GHz band is 5735MHz–5835MHz (e.g., channel numbers 149–165). Another example is the 6GHz band, which is 5925MHz–7125MHz. Furthermore, the 6GHz-L band is 5925MHz–6425MHz, and the 6GHz-H band is 6425MHz–7125MHz.

[0129] For example, a dedicated frequency band could be the 6GHz-L band or the 6GHz band.

[0130] For example, for the 5GHz band, the dedicated band could be one of 5.2GHz, 5.5GHz, or 5.8GHz. For the 6GHz band, the dedicated band could be either the 6GHz-L band or the 6GHz-H band.

[0131] As another example, the information indicating a dedicated frequency band includes a bitmap, where each bit in the bitmap corresponds to a channel (or channel number). A value of 1 for this bit indicates that the dedicated frequency band includes the channel corresponding to that bit, and a value of 0 for this bit indicates that the dedicated frequency band does not include the channel corresponding to that bit. The relationship between the values ​​and meanings shown here is merely an example and is not intended to limit the embodiments of this application.

[0132] As another example, the information indicating a dedicated frequency band includes a bitmap, where one bit in the bitmap corresponds to a frequency range. The specific length of the frequency range corresponding to each bit is not limited in this embodiment. For example, a bit value of 1 indicates that the dedicated frequency band includes the frequency range corresponding to that bit, while a bit value of 0 indicates that the dedicated frequency band does not include the frequency range corresponding to that bit.

[0133] The specific methods for indicating dedicated frequency bands will not be listed one by one in the embodiments of this application.

[0134] Table 3 provides an example of the dedicated service frequency band field. For instance, y = 31 in Tables 1 through 3. Alternatively, the values ​​of y in Tables 1, 2, or 3 may differ, and these will not be listed here.

[0135] Table 3

[0136] Regarding implementation method 2, by indicating specific dedicated frequency bands, the first device can clearly know which frequency bands are dedicated, thereby improving communication efficiency.

[0137] As another possible implementation 3, the first indication information includes information for indicating whether the second device has a dedicated frequency band, and if it has a dedicated frequency band, it also includes information indicating the dedicated frequency band.

[0138] Table 4 provides an example of a dedicated service frequency band field. For ease of description, x and y are used to represent the length of the field in different tables, but the values ​​of x or y involved in different tables may be the same or different.

[0139] Table 4

[0140] For a detailed explanation of implementation method 3, please refer to implementation methods 1 and 2, which will not be repeated here.

[0141] In this embodiment, the first indication information may be carried in a frame transmitted via unicast, a frame transmitted via broadcast, or a frame transmitted via multicast. For example, the first indication information may be carried in a management frame. Further details regarding the management frame can be found below, but will not be elaborated upon here.

[0142] In one possible implementation, the second device may generate the first indication information before sending it. For example, the second device may generate the first indication information based on whether it supports a dedicated frequency band. Alternatively, the second device may generate the first indication information based on a dedicated frequency band it has configured. Yet another possibility is that the second device generates the first indication information based on a predefined dedicated frequency band and whether it supports that dedicated frequency band.

[0143] 202. The first device analyzes the first instruction information.

[0144] If the first device determines, based on the first instruction information, that the second device has a dedicated frequency band, or that the second device does not have a dedicated frequency band.

[0145] For example, the first device determines that the second device has a dedicated frequency band based on the first instruction information, and determines the frequency range (or channel number, etc.) of the dedicated frequency band.

[0146] In one possible implementation, the method shown in Figure 2 further includes step 203.

[0147] 203. The second device sends a third indication message, which indicates whether the second device has the capability to fulfill the dedicated service. Correspondingly, the first device receives the third indication message.

[0148] Alternatively, the third indication information is used to indicate whether the second device can meet the requirements of the dedicated service, such as, but not limited to, network requirements. Or, the third indication information is used to indicate whether the second device can provide experience guarantees for the dedicated service, such as, but not limited to, network guarantees or quality of service (QoS).

[0149] As one possible implementation 4, the third indication information is carried in a dedicated service field. A first value in this dedicated service field indicates that the second device has the capability to satisfy the dedicated service, while a second value indicates that the second device does not have the capability to satisfy the dedicated service. The dedicated service field shown here is merely an example and is not intended to limit the embodiments of this application. The first value involved in implementation 4 may be the same as or different from the first value involved in implementation 1. Similarly, the second value involved in implementation 4 may be the same as or different from the second value involved in implementation 1.

[0150] For example, the dedicated service field includes one bit, which indicates whether the second device has the capability to satisfy the dedicated service. The relationship between the value and meaning of this bit is as follows: 1 indicates that the second device has the capability to satisfy the dedicated service; 0 indicates that the second device does not have the capability to satisfy the dedicated service. The single bit shown here is merely an example and is not intended to limit the embodiments of this application. The dedicated service field may also include multiple bits, which indicate whether the second device has the capability to satisfy the dedicated service. For a description of the dedicated service field, please refer to the description of the dedicated service frequency band in Implementation 1, which will not be detailed here.

[0151] Optionally, the third indication information and the first indication information are carried in the same frame. This can be achieved if both the first and third indication information are carried in a management frame, such as, but not limited to, a beacon frame, association response frame, probe response frame, or reassociation response frame. Alternatively, it can be achieved if the dedicated service field carrying the third indication information and the dedicated service frequency band field carrying the first indication information are both carried in the capability information feature field.

[0152] Tables 5 and 6 exemplarily illustrate the capability information feature fields. Further explanations regarding Tables 5 and 6 can be found in Table 1, etc., and will not be elaborated upon here.

[0153] Table 5

[0154] Table 6

[0155] Tables 5 and 6 illustrate examples where the first and third instruction information are carried within the capability information feature field. The first and third instruction information can also be carried within different fields or different elements, which will not be listed here.

[0156] Optionally, the third indication information and the first indication information are carried in different frames. For example, the first indication information is carried in a beacon frame, and the third indication information is carried in an association response frame, a probe response frame, or a reassociation response frame, etc.

[0157] As another possible implementation 5, the third instruction information indicates that the second device has the capability to meet the dedicated service, which includes at least one of the following: the latency capability that the second device can provide according to the dedicated service, the throughput capability that the second device can provide according to the dedicated service, or the packet loss rate capability that the second device can provide according to the dedicated service.

[0158] In other words, the second device can indicate to the first device the specific experience guarantees it can provide (such as network guarantees or quality of service); or, based on the capabilities that the second device can provide for the dedicated service. The capabilities provided by the second device can meet the requirements of the dedicated service, or the first device can determine whether to continue associating with the second device or its dedicated frequency band based on the capabilities provided by the second device.

[0159] For an explanation of the relationship between the third instruction information and the first instruction information, please refer to implementation method 4; it will not be repeated here.

[0160] As an example, the third indication information includes multiple bits, the values ​​of which indicate various capabilities, which will not be detailed here. Tables 7 and 8 exemplarily illustrate the capability information feature fields. As shown in Table 7, based on a dedicated service, the capabilities provided by the AP can be carried in fields B(x+1) to B(y) of the capability information feature fields. As shown in Table 8, based on a dedicated service, the capabilities provided by the AP can be carried in fields B(0) to B(x) of the capability information feature fields. B(x) shown in Tables 7 and 8 is an optional field. That is, the capability information feature fields carrying the third indication information may not include the first indication information, or may include the first indication information. Further explanations regarding Tables 7 and 8 can be found in Table 1, etc., and will not be detailed here. B(y+1) to B(z) in Table 7 are merely examples and are not intended to limit the embodiments of this application.

[0161] Table 7

[0162] Table 8

[0163] As another example, the third indication information includes a bitmap, where each bit in the bitmap can correspond to a capability. For example, a bit value of 1 indicates that the second device can provide the capability corresponding to that bit based on the dedicated service; a bit value of 0 indicates that the second device cannot provide the capability corresponding to that bit based on the dedicated service. For a description of the bitmap, please refer to Implementation Method 1, which will not be detailed here.

[0164] As a possible implementation 6, if the third indication information indicates that the second device does not have the capability to satisfy the dedicated service, the method further includes: the first device receiving recommendation information, which is used by the second device to recommend candidate APs that have the capability to satisfy the dedicated service. If the recommendation information and the third indication information indicating that the second device does not have the capability to satisfy the dedicated service are carried in the same frame, then the first device can quickly reselect an AP and access that AP based on the recommendation information.

[0165] Regarding implementations 4 through 6, each implementation can be a separate embodiment or can be combined with others to form a new embodiment. For example, the third indication information can be used to indicate at least one of the following: the second device has the capability to satisfy the dedicated service; the second device does not have the capability to satisfy the dedicated service; or, the second device does not have the capability to satisfy the dedicated service, but the second device can recommend an AP that satisfies the dedicated service capability. As another example, the third indication information can be used to indicate at least one of the following: the capabilities that the second device can provide based on the dedicated service; the second device does not have the capability to satisfy the dedicated service; or, the second device does not have the capability to satisfy the dedicated service, but the second device can recommend an AP that satisfies the dedicated service capability. The combinations of the various implementations are not listed here. The descriptions of the combinations of the various implementations here also apply to implementations 1 through 3 shown above.

[0166] In one possible implementation, the method shown in Figure 2 further includes step 204.

[0167] 204. The first device sends a fourth indication message, which indicates whether the first device has a dedicated service. Correspondingly, the second device receives the fourth indication message.

[0168] Alternatively, the fourth indication information is used to indicate whether the first device has a transmission requirement based on the dedicated service. Alternatively, the fourth indication information is used to indicate whether the first device needs to associate with a dedicated frequency band based on the dedicated service. Alternatively, the fourth indication information is used to indicate whether the first device needs to associate with a dedicated frequency band based on the dedicated service.

[0169] In one possible implementation, the second device parses the fourth instruction information.

[0170] If the second device determines, based on the fourth instruction information, that the first device has a dedicated service, the second device may optionally prioritize associating with the first device. In other words, the second device may prioritize responding to the association with the first device. Prioritizing association with the first device means that the response speed or quality of a non-AP STA with a dedicated service is higher than that of a non-AP STA without a dedicated service.

[0171] For example, the second device determines, based on the fourth indication information, that the first device does not have a dedicated service. Optionally, the response speed or response quality of the first device is lower than that of a non-AP STA with a dedicated service. Optionally, the second device may not respond to the association request from a non-AP STA that does not have a dedicated service. For example, the AP may not send a probe response frame, association response frame, or reassociation response frame to the non-AP STA. If the non-AP STA does not receive a response frame within a predetermined time, it indicates that the AP does not associate with the non-AP STA. The non-AP STA may then re-associate with an AP.

[0172] As one possible implementation 7, the fourth indication information is used to indicate that the first device has a dedicated service, or the fourth indication information is used to indicate that the first device does not have a dedicated service.

[0173] For example, the fourth instruction information is carried in the exclusive traffic assurance demand field. Table 9 provides an example of the exclusive traffic assurance demand field.

[0174] Table 9

[0175] The length field indicates the length of the dedicated service guarantee requirement field. The length of this dedicated service guarantee requirement field may be 1 bit, 8 bits, or 32 bits, etc., and this application embodiment does not impose any limitations.

[0176] Table 10 provides an example of the dedicated business assurance requirement field.

[0177] Table 10

[0178] As another possible implementation 8, the fourth indication information includes information indicating a specific service type. Including information indicating a specific service type indicates that the first device has a specific service. For example, the fourth indication information may include information indicating specific service 1 and information indicating specific service 2. Optionally, the fourth indication information may indicate a specific service type, or the fourth indication information may indicate the type of specific service through a bitmap. For a description of implementation 8, please refer to implementation 7, which will not be detailed here. For further explanation of the fourth indication information, please refer to the descriptions of the first or third indication information above, which will not be detailed here.

[0179] In this embodiment, a STA with dedicated services can be associated with a dedicated frequency band, thereby isolating the dedicated frequency band from the non-dedicated frequency band. This allows STAs with dedicated services and those without dedicated services to be isolated, reducing contention latency and access latency for STAs with dedicated services. Optionally, non-dedicated services will not cause congestion for dedicated services, and STAs without dedicated services will not simultaneously compete for air interface access with STAs with dedicated services.

[0180] In this embodiment, dedicated services are carried on dedicated frequency bands, thereby isolating dedicated services from non-dedicated services and achieving service isolation. This, in turn, ensures the performance of dedicated services.

[0181] In one possible implementation, the method shown in Figure 2 further includes step 205.

[0182] 205. The second device sends a second instruction message, which includes information indicating a dedicated service. Correspondingly, the first device receives the second instruction message.

[0183] If the first indication information includes information indicating a dedicated service, the method shown in FIG2 may omit step 205. If the first indication information, or the frame carrying the first indication information, does not include information indicating a dedicated service, the method shown in FIG2 may include step 205. Further explanation regarding the second indication information refers to the description of the first indication information, as in the description of implementation 2, and will not be detailed here.

[0184] The first indication information and the second indication information can be carried in different frames. For example, the first indication information can be carried in a beacon frame, and the second indication information can be carried in an association request frame, a probe request frame, or a reassociation request frame.

[0185] In this embodiment, the first device learns from the first indication information that the second device does not have a dedicated frequency band. Therefore, the first device can choose not to connect to the second device (or not to continue associating with the second device, or not to continue the detection process, etc.), and instead select another access point (AP), saving the first device's waiting time and power consumption. Alternatively, if the first device learns from the first indication information that the second device has a dedicated frequency band, the first device determines that it can associate with the second device (or determines that it may associate with the second device). Thus, the first device can initiate an association process or a detection process, and the second device can then inform the first device of the specific frequency band, improving association efficiency (or detection efficiency) and flexibility.

[0186] The order of the steps shown above is not limited in this embodiment. As one possible implementation, the method shown in FIG2 includes steps 201 and 202. As another possible implementation, the method shown in FIG2 includes steps 201, 202, and 204. As yet another possible implementation, the method shown in FIG2 includes steps 201 (refer to implementation 1 for the first instruction information), 202, 204, and 205. As yet another possible implementation, the method shown in FIG2 includes steps 201 to 205. As yet another possible implementation, the method shown in FIG2 includes steps 203 and 204. As yet another possible implementation, the method shown in FIG2 includes steps 203 to 205. The combinations of the various steps are not listed here.

[0187] The following uses the first instruction information, the second instruction information, the third instruction information, and the fourth instruction information as examples to illustrate the relationship between the various instruction information.

[0188] As one possible implementation, the first indication information, the second indication information, and the third indication information are carried in the same frame, such as the first frame, while the fourth indication information is carried in the second frame. The transmission order of the first or second frame is not limited in this embodiment.

[0189] As another possible implementation, the first and third indication information are carried in the same frame, such as the first frame, the fourth indication information is carried in the second frame, and the second indication information is carried in the third frame. For example, after the AP sends the first frame, the non-AP STA sends the second frame. After receiving the second frame, the AP sends the third frame.

[0190] As another possible implementation, the first indication information is carried in the first frame, the fourth indication information is carried in the second frame, and the second and third indication information are carried in the third frame. For example, after the AP sends the first frame, the non-AP STA sends the second frame. After receiving the second frame, the AP sends the third frame.

[0191] In this embodiment, the first device learns whether the second device has a dedicated frequency band through first indication information. Based on this first indication information, the first device determines whether it can successfully associate with the dedicated frequency band. Subsequently, the first device can perform frequency band isolation, reducing its access latency. Frequency band isolation refers to the isolation between dedicated and non-dedicated frequency bands.

[0192] Alternatively, the first device determines whether the second device has a dedicated frequency band by using the first indication information, thereby determining whether the second device has performed frequency band isolation. With frequency band isolation in place, since not all sites can be associated with a dedicated frequency band, the access latency of sites that can be associated with a dedicated frequency band can be effectively reduced.

[0193] The following specific examples illustrate the methods provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0194] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of a scenario of the communication method provided in an embodiment of this application. The descriptions of the AP and non-AP STA involved in this method are as above and will not be detailed here. As shown in Figure 3, the method includes:

[0195] In one possible implementation, the AP is configured with a dedicated frequency band. Refer to Figure 2 for an explanation of dedicated frequency bands; details will not be elaborated here.

[0196] 301. A non-AP STA sends a probe request frame, and the corresponding AP receives the probe request frame.

[0197] Optionally, the probe request frame includes fourth indication information. A description of the fourth indication information is given in Figure 2, and will not be elaborated upon here.

[0198] 302. The AP sends a probe response frame, and the corresponding non-AP STA receives the probe response frame.

[0199] Optionally, the probe response frame includes first indication information. Optionally, the probe response frame includes both first and third indication information. These will not be listed individually here.

[0200] Optionally, the AP sends a beacon frame that includes at least one of a first indication message, a second indication message, or a third indication message.

[0201] 303. AP and non-AP STA certification is required.

[0202] For details regarding certification, please refer to the 802.11 standard; it will not be elaborated here.

[0203] 304. A non-AP STA sends an association request frame, and the corresponding AP receives the association request frame.

[0204] Optionally, the association request frame includes fourth indication information. A description of the fourth indication information is given in Figure 2, and will not be elaborated upon here.

[0205] 305. The AP sends an association response frame, and the corresponding non-AP STA receives the association response frame.

[0206] Optionally, the associated response frame includes first indication information. Optionally, the associated response frame includes both first indication information and third indication information.

[0207] 306. Communication between the AP and non-AP STAs. For example, dedicated services are carried on dedicated frequency bands. A non-AP STA can send data frames corresponding to the dedicated service to the AP via the dedicated frequency band, and the AP can receive these data frames via the dedicated frequency band.

[0208] For further explanation of the method shown in Figure 3, please refer to Figure 2, which will not be elaborated here.

[0209] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of another scenario of the communication method provided in this application embodiment. Figure 4 exemplarily shows two non-AP STAs, where non-AP STA1 has dedicated services and non-AP STA2 does not. As shown in Figure 4, the method includes:

[0210] In one possible implementation, the AP is configured with a dedicated frequency band. Refer to Figure 2 for an explanation of dedicated frequency bands; details will not be elaborated here.

[0211] Non-AP STA1 sends a probe request frame, and the corresponding AP receives the probe request frame. Optionally, the probe request frame includes fourth indication information indicating that non-AP STA1 has dedicated services.

[0212] Non-AP STA2 sends a probe request frame, and the corresponding AP receives the probe request frame. Optionally, the probe request frame includes a fourth indication that the non-AP STA2 does not have dedicated services.

[0213] Since non-AP STA1 has dedicated services, the AP can prioritize responding to its probe request frames. As shown in Figure 4, the AP can send a probe response frame to non-AP STA1 within time T1, and non-AP STA1 will receive the probe response frame. The probe response frame may include at least one of a first indication information, a second indication information, or a third indication information.

[0214] Since non-AP STA2 does not have dedicated services, the AP may not prioritize responding to its probe request frames, or may delay responding, or may not respond at all. As shown in Figure 4, the AP can send a probe response frame to non-AP STA2 within time T2, and non-AP STA2 will receive the corresponding probe response frame. T2 is greater than T1.

[0215] AP is certified with non-AP STA1. AP is certified with non-AP STA2.

[0216] Figure 4 does not show the association request frame and association response frame. For an explanation of the association request frame and association response frame, please refer to the description above (such as the probe request frame and probe response frame in Figure 2, Figure 3 or Figure 4, etc.), which will not be described in detail here.

[0217] Because non-AP STA1 has its own dedicated service, the AP can communicate and interact with it via its dedicated frequency band. The dedicated service is carried on the dedicated frequency band; for example, the non-AP STA can send data frames corresponding to the dedicated service to the AP via the dedicated frequency band, and the AP can receive these data frames via the dedicated frequency band.

[0218] Since non-AP STA2 does not have dedicated services, AP can communicate and interact with non-AP STA2 through non-dedicated frequency bands.

[0219] Since non-AP STA2 does not have dedicated services, the AP may not respond to the probe request frame of non-AP STA2. Non-AP STA2 can continue to authenticate and associate with the AP, or it can associate with another AP. This application embodiment does not limit this.

[0220] In this embodiment, a non-AP STA1 with dedicated services can be associated with a dedicated frequency band and communicate through that band. A non-AP STA2 without dedicated services cannot be associated with a dedicated frequency band and communicates through a non-dedicated frequency band. This isolates non-AP STAs with and without dedicated services, as well as the dedicated and non-dedicated frequency bands. Consequently, it reduces contention latency and access latency for non-AP STAs with dedicated services.

[0221] The apparatus provided in the embodiments of this application will be described below.

[0222] This application divides the device into functional modules according to the above method embodiments. For example, each function can be divided into its own functional modules, or two or more functions can be integrated into one processing module. The integrated modules can be implemented in hardware or as software functional modules. It should be noted that the module division in this application is illustrative and only represents one logical functional division; other division methods may be used in actual implementation. The communication device of the embodiment of this application will be described in detail below with reference to Figures 5 to 7.

[0223] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of a device provided in an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 5, the device includes a processing module 501 and a transceiver module 502. The transceiver module 502 can implement corresponding communication functions, and the processing module 501 is used to implement corresponding processing functions. For example, the transceiver module 502 can also be referred to as an interface, a communication interface, or a communication module, etc.

[0224] In some embodiments of this application, the device can be used to perform the actions performed by the first device in the above method embodiments. In this case, the device can be the device itself or a chip or functional module configurable in the device. The transceiver module 502 is used to perform the transceiver-related operations of the first device in the above method embodiments, and the processing module 501 is used to perform the processing-related operations of the first device in the above method embodiments.

[0225] The transceiver module 502 is used to receive or input the first instruction information; the processing module 501 is used to parse the first instruction information.

[0226] Optionally, the transceiver module 502 is also used to receive or input second instruction information.

[0227] Optionally, the transceiver module 502 is also used to receive or input third instruction information.

[0228] Optionally, the transceiver module 502 is also used to send or output fourth indication information.

[0229] The processing module 501 can be used to generate fourth indication information. Optionally, the processing module 501 can also be used to parse the second indication information (or the third indication information).

[0230] Reusing Figure 5, in some other embodiments of this application, the above-described device can be used to perform the actions performed by the second device in the above method embodiments. In this case, the device can be the device itself or a chip or functional module configurable in the device. The transceiver module 502 is used to perform the transceiver-related operations of the second device in the above method embodiments, and the processing module 501 is used to perform the processing-related operations of the second device in the above method embodiments.

[0231] The processing module 501 is used to generate the first indication information; the transceiver module 502 is used to send or output the first indication information.

[0232] Optionally, the transceiver module 502 is also used to send or output second indication information. For example, the processing module 501 is used to generate the second indication information.

[0233] Optionally, the transceiver module 502 is also used to send or output third indication information.

[0234] Optionally, the transceiver module 502 is also used to receive or input fourth indication information. For example, the processing module 501 is used to parse the fourth indication information.

[0235] For example, the transceiver module 502 described above can be an antenna module. Alternatively, the transceiver module 502 can be an input / output module. Optionally, in the above embodiments, the device may further include a storage module, which can be used to store instructions and / or data. The processing module 501 can read the instructions and / or data from the storage module to enable the device to implement the aforementioned method embodiments.

[0236] For details regarding the specific explanations of each term, noun, or step in the above embodiments, please refer to the descriptions in the above method embodiments; they will not be detailed here.

[0237] The specific descriptions of the transceiver module and processing module shown in the above embodiments are merely examples. For the specific functions or execution steps of the transceiver module and processing module, please refer to the above method embodiments, which will not be described in detail here.

[0238] It is understandable that the module division in the above-mentioned device is merely a logical functional division. Each function can correspond to a functional module, or two or more functions can be integrated into one functional module. In actual implementation, all or some modules can be integrated into one physical entity, or they can be distributed across different physical entities. Furthermore, the above-mentioned functional modules can be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of both.

[0239] In one example, the functional unit in any of the above devices may be one or more integrated circuits configured to implement the above methods, such as: one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), or one or more central processing units (CPUs), one or more microcontroller units (MCUs), one or more digital signal processors (DSPs), or one or more field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or a combination of at least two of these integrated circuit forms.

[0240] The apparatus of the embodiments of this application has been described above. The possible product forms of the apparatus are described below. Any product possessing the functions of the apparatus described in FIG. 5 above falls within the protection scope of the embodiments of this application. The following description is merely illustrative and does not limit the product form of the apparatus of the embodiments of this application to this.

[0241] In one possible implementation, in the device shown in FIG5, the processing module 501 can be one or more processors, and the transceiver module 502 can be a transceiver, or the transceiver module 502 can also be a transmitting module and a receiving module. The transmitting module can be a transmitter, and the receiving module can be a receiver. The transmitting module and the receiving module are integrated into one device, such as a transceiver. In the embodiments of this application, the processor and the transceiver can be coupled, etc., and the connection method between the processor and the transceiver is not limited in the embodiments of this application. In the process of executing the above method, the process of sending information in the above method can be the process of the processor outputting the above information. When outputting the above information, the processor outputs the above information to the transceiver so that the transceiver can transmit it. After the above information is output by the processor, it may need to undergo other processing before reaching the transceiver. Similarly, the process of receiving information in the above method can be the process of the processor receiving the input above information. When the processor receives the input information, the transceiver receives the above information and inputs it into the processor. Furthermore, after the transceiver receives the above information, the above information may need to undergo other processing before being input into the processor.

[0242] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of another device provided in an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 6, the device 60 includes one or more processors 620 and transceivers 610.

[0243] In some embodiments of this application, the above-described apparatus can be used to perform the steps, methods, or functions performed by the first apparatus. For example, the processor 620 can be used to perform the functions or steps implemented by the processing module 501 shown in FIG. 5, and the transceiver 610 can be used to perform the functions or steps implemented by the transceiver module 502 shown in FIG. 5. Detailed descriptions of the processor 620 and the transceiver 610 can be found in FIG. 5 or the method embodiments shown above, and will not be elaborated further here.

[0244] In other embodiments of this application, the above-described apparatus is used to perform the steps, methods, or functions performed by the second apparatus. For example, the processor 620 can be used to perform the functions or steps implemented by the processing module 501 shown in FIG. 5, and the transceiver 610 can be used to perform the functions or steps implemented by the transceiver module 502 shown in FIG. 5. Detailed descriptions of the processor 620 and the transceiver 610 can be found in FIG. 5 or the method embodiments shown above, and will not be elaborated further here.

[0245] Optionally, the above-mentioned device is a chip, and the transceiver can be an input / output interface. Optionally, the above-mentioned device is a complete device such as an AP or STA, and the transceiver can have antenna transmission and reception functions.

[0246] Taking the above-mentioned device as a communication device as an example, in various implementations of the communication device shown in Figure 6, the transceiver may include a receiver and a transmitter. The receiver is used to perform the function (or operation) of receiving, and the transmitter is used to perform the function (or operation) of transmitting. The transceiver is also used to communicate with other devices / appliances via a transmission medium. Optionally, the communication device 60 may also include one or more memories 630 for storing program instructions and / or data. The memory 630 and the processor 620 are coupled. The coupling in this embodiment is an indirect coupling or communication connection between communication devices, units, or modules, which can be electrical, mechanical, or other forms, for information interaction between communication devices, units, or modules. The processor 620 may operate in conjunction with the memory 630. The processor 620 can execute the program instructions stored in the memory 630. Optionally, at least one of the above-mentioned memories may be included in the processor.

[0247] This embodiment does not limit the specific connection medium between the transceiver 610, processor 620, and memory 630. In Figure 6, the memory 630, processor 620, and transceiver 610 are connected via a bus 640, indicated by a thick line. The connection methods between other components are merely illustrative and not intended to be limiting. The bus can be an address bus, data bus, control bus, etc. For ease of illustration, only one thick line is used in Figure 6, but this does not indicate that there is only one bus or one type of bus.

[0248] In the embodiments of this application, the processor may be a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, discrete hardware components, etc., and can implement or execute the various methods, steps, and logic block diagrams disclosed in the embodiments of this application. The general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor or any conventional processor. The steps of the methods disclosed in the embodiments of this application can be directly manifested as being executed by a hardware processor, or being executed by a combination of hardware and software modules within the processor.

[0249] In this application embodiment, the memory may include, but is not limited to, non-volatile memory such as hard disk drive (HDD) or solid-state drive (SSD), random access memory (RAM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), read-only memory (ROM), or compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), etc. Memory is any storage medium capable of carrying or storing program code in the form of instructions or data structures, and capable of being read and / or written by a computer (such as the communication device shown in this application), but is not limited to this. The memory in this application embodiment may also be a circuit or any other device capable of implementing storage functions, used to store program instructions and / or data.

[0250] The processor 620 is primarily used to process communication protocols and data, control the entire communication device, execute software programs, and process the data from those programs. The memory 630 is primarily used to store software programs and data. The transceiver 610 may include control circuitry and an antenna. The control circuitry is primarily used for converting baseband signals to radio frequency signals and processing radio frequency signals. The antenna is primarily used for transmitting and receiving radio frequency signals in the form of electromagnetic waves. Input / output devices, such as touchscreens, displays, and keyboards, are primarily used to receive user input data and output data to the user.

[0251] When the communication device is powered on, the processor 620 can read the software program in the memory 630, interpret and execute the instructions of the software program, and process the data of the software program. When data needs to be transmitted wirelessly, the processor 620 performs baseband processing on the data to be transmitted and outputs the baseband signal to the radio frequency (RF) circuit. The RF circuit then performs RF processing on the baseband signal and transmits the RF signal outward in the form of electromagnetic waves through the antenna. When data is sent to the communication device, the RF circuit receives the RF signal through the antenna, converts the RF signal into a baseband signal, and outputs the baseband signal to the processor 620. The processor 620 converts the baseband signal back into data and processes the data.

[0252] In another implementation, the radio frequency circuitry and antenna can be set up independently of the processor performing baseband processing. For example, in a distributed scenario, the radio frequency circuitry and antenna can be arranged remotely, independent of the communication device.

[0253] The apparatus shown in this application embodiment may have more components than those in Figure 6, and this application embodiment does not limit this. The methods executed by the processor and transceiver shown above are merely examples; the specific steps executed by the processor and transceiver can be referred to the methods described above. The dashed lines in Figure 6 indicate optional components.

[0254] In another possible implementation, in the device shown in Figure 5, the processing module 501 can be one or more logic circuits, and the transceiver module 502 can be an input / output interface, or a communication interface, or an interface circuit, or an interface, etc. Alternatively, the transceiver module 502 can also be a sending module and a receiving module, where the sending module can be an output interface and the receiving module can be an input interface, and the sending module and receiving module are integrated into one module, such as an input / output interface.

[0255] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of a chip provided in an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 7, the chip includes a logic circuit 701 and an interface 702. That is, the processing module 501 can be implemented using the logic circuit 701, and the transceiver module 502 can be implemented using the interface 702. The logic circuit 701 can be a chip, processing circuit, integrated circuit, or system-on-chip (SoC) chip, etc., and the interface 702 can be a communication interface, input / output interface, pins, etc. For example, Figure 7 illustrates a chip using the aforementioned device as an example, where the chip includes a logic circuit 701 and an interface 702.

[0256] In this embodiment, the logic circuit and the interface can also be coupled to each other. The specific connection method of the logic circuit and the interface is not limited in this embodiment. For example, the logic circuit 701 can be used to execute the functions or steps implemented by the processing module 501 shown in FIG. 5, and the interface 702 can be used to execute the functions or steps implemented by the transceiver module 502 shown in FIG. 5. For a detailed description of the logic circuit 701 and the interface 702, please refer to FIG. 5 or the method embodiment shown above, which will not be detailed here.

[0257] The apparatus shown in the embodiments of this application can be implemented in hardware or software, and the embodiments of this application do not limit this.

[0258] Furthermore, embodiments of this application also provide a communication system, which includes a first device and a second device, the first device and the second device being usable for performing the methods in any of the foregoing embodiments.

[0259] This application also provides a computer program for implementing the operations and / or processes performed by various sites in the methods provided in this application.

[0260] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing computer code that, when executed on a computer, causes the computer to perform the operations and / or processes performed by various communication devices in the methods provided in this application.

[0261] This application also provides a computer program product comprising computer code or a computer program that, when run on a computer, causes the operations and / or processes performed by various entities in the method provided in this application to be executed.

[0262] In the embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed systems, communication devices, and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the communication device embodiments described above are merely illustrative. For instance, the division of modules is only a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple modules or components may be combined or integrated into another system, or some features may be ignored or not executed. In addition, the mutual coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed may be indirect coupling or communication connection through some interfaces, communication devices, or modules, or may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms of connection.

[0263] The modules described as separate components may or may not be physically separate. The components shown as modules may or may not be physical modules; that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network modules. Some or all of the modules can be selected according to actual needs to achieve the technical effects of the solutions provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0264] Furthermore, the functional modules in the various embodiments of this application can be integrated into one processing module, or each module can exist physically separately, or two or more modules can be integrated into one module. The integrated modules described above can be implemented in hardware or as software functional modules.

[0265] If the integrated module is implemented as a software functional module and sold or used as an independent product, it can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of this application, in essence, or the part that contributes to the prior art, or all or part of the technical solution, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product is stored in a readable storage medium and includes several instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, server, or network device, etc.) to execute all or part of the steps of the methods described in the various embodiments of this application. The aforementioned readable storage medium includes various media capable of storing program code, such as USB flash drives, portable hard drives, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic disks, or optical disks.

Claims

1. A communication method, characterized in that, The method includes: The first device receives first indication information, which is used to indicate whether the second device has a dedicated frequency band, and the dedicated frequency band is a frequency band that the first device cannot directly associate with; The first device parses the first instruction information.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first indication information includes information indicating the dedicated frequency band.

3. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The method further includes: The first device receives second indication information, which includes information indicating the dedicated frequency band.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The method further includes: The first device receives third indication information, which is used to indicate whether the second device has the capability to satisfy a dedicated service, the dedicated service being carried on the dedicated frequency band.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The method further includes: The first device sends a fourth indication message, which is used to indicate whether the first device has the exclusive service.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, When the first device has the dedicated service and the second device has the dedicated frequency band, the first device is associated with the dedicated frequency band.

7. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that, When the first device has the dedicated service and the second device has the dedicated frequency band and the ability to satisfy the dedicated service, the first device is associated with the dedicated frequency band.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, The dedicated service meets at least one of the following criteria: The dedicated services are predefined services; The dedicated services have a higher priority than the non-dedicated services; The dedicated service has higher latency requirements compared to the non-dedicated service; The dedicated service has higher throughput requirements compared to non-dedicated services; or... The dedicated service has a higher requirement for packet loss rate compared to the non-dedicated service.

9. The method according to any one of claims 1-8, characterized in that, The first indication information is carried in an association response frame or a probe response frame, and the fourth indication information is carried in an association request frame or a probe request frame; or, The first indication information is carried in a beacon frame, the second indication information is carried in an association response frame or a probe response frame, and the fourth indication information is carried in an association request frame or a probe request frame.

10. The method according to any one of claims 1-9, characterized in that, The first indication information and the third indication information are carried in the same frame.

11. A communication method, characterized in that, The method includes: The second device generates first indication information, which is used to indicate whether the second device has a dedicated frequency band, and the dedicated frequency band is a frequency band that the first device cannot directly associate with. The second device sends the first instruction information.

12. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that, The first indication information includes information indicating the dedicated frequency band.

13. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that, The method further includes: The second device sends a second instruction message, which includes information indicating the dedicated frequency band.

14. The method according to any one of claims 11-13, characterized in that, The method further includes: The second device sends a third indication message, which indicates whether the second device has the capability to satisfy a dedicated service carried on the dedicated frequency band.

15. The method according to any one of claims 11-14, characterized in that, The method further includes: The second device receives a fourth indication message, which is used to indicate whether the first device has the exclusive service.

16. The method according to any one of claims 11-15, characterized in that, The dedicated service meets at least one of the following criteria: The dedicated services are predefined services; The dedicated services have a higher priority than the non-dedicated services; The dedicated service has higher latency requirements compared to the non-dedicated service; The dedicated service has higher throughput requirements compared to non-dedicated services; or... The dedicated service has a higher requirement for packet loss rate compared to the non-dedicated service.

17. The method according to any one of claims 11-16, characterized in that, The first indication information is carried in an association response frame or a probe response frame, and the fourth indication information is carried in an association request frame or a probe request frame; or, The first indication information is carried in a beacon frame, the second indication information is carried in an association response frame or a probe response frame, and the fourth indication information is carried in an association request frame or a probe request frame.

18. The method according to any one of claims 11-17, characterized in that, The first indication information and the third indication information are carried in the same frame.

19. A communication device, characterized in that, Includes a module for performing the method as described in any one of claims 1-18.

20. A communication device, characterized in that, The communication device includes at least one processor and a transceiver, wherein the at least one processor and the transceiver are coupled to enable the communication device to implement the method as described in any one of claims 1-18.

21. A chip, characterized in that, The chip includes logic circuitry and an interface, the logic circuitry and the interface being coupled such that the chip implements the method as described in any one of claims 1-18.

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

23. A computer program product, characterized in that, When the computer program product is executed by a computer, the method described in any one of claims 1-18 is performed.

24. A communication system, characterized in that, The system includes a first device and a second device, the first device being configured to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1-10, and the second device being configured to perform the method as described in any one of claims 11-18.

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