Characterization of Effective RCS for Fixed NLoS Sub-THz Links With Single Scattered Reflections

Abstract

This paper presents wideband channel measurements for indoor Non-Line-of-Sight (NLoS) fixed links operating at sub-Terahertz (sub-THz) frequencies (92.110 GHz) with single scattered reflections. Seemingly “smooth” surfaces generate substantial internal multipath causing frequency selective scattered reflections owing to the short wavelength. Unlike specular reflections, no single well-defined reflection point aligns the incidence angle ( $\theta_{{\mathrm {i}}}$ ) and reflection angle ( $\theta_{{\mathrm {r}}}$ ) to form the lowest path loss. This means that the scattering effect of the reflective surface gives reason to search for the best angular alignment of the Receiver (Rx) antenna given a specific angle from the Transmitter (Tx) antenna. The wideband effective Radar Cross Section (RCS) is derived and computed based on the bi-static radar equation, which specifically accounts for the effect of alignment angle on the defined frequency selective RCS. The measurements reveal alignment-variant angular scattering from large-scale discontinuities such as wall partitions, television screens and metallic reinforcement studs, offering valuable insights for the design and deployment of future wireless communications systems operating in the sub-THz band.