Microelectronic – Front-End Module (FEM)

Expected Outcome: The targeted outcomes reflect the above challenges and cover a comprehensive Front End module design which: Covers the FR3 range as defined by the relevant Agenda Item of WRC 27 (7 to 15 GHz range) with possible extension up to 24 GHz if required by some regional implementations, with inherent tuning capabilities to accommodate potential regional variations. Mitigates interferences with incumbent FR3 band users and maximises sharing capabilities across the band in line with the European regulatory approach on spectrum sharing. Enables integration of a large number of antenna elements beyond the State of the Art and support massive MIMO implementation with compensation of increased path loss compared to 5G FR1 implementations. Enables at least an order-of-magnitude increase in RF processing compared to 5G FR1 implementations. Enables 5G cell site reuse and minimises deployment complexity on top of 5G sites deployment. Enables low-cost and low energy implementation of the elementary constituent modules, efficient packaging and is mainly based on the integration of microelectronics heterogeneous technologies where European industry has strong expertise and know-how. Addresses new 6G requirements for greater uplink capacity as required by new classes of traffic/use cases. Enables concurrent and efficient implementation of Sub Band Full Duplex (SBFD) and Integrated Sensing and Communications (ISAC), whilst minimising the waveform differences between the communication and the sensing function, with maximisation of common functional blocks as appropriate. Addresses ITU requirements for IMT 2030 especially for what concerns increased carrier rate, user rate and latency. Enables support of both cellular (FR1-like) and FWA (FR2-like) use case scenarios. It is based on a strong and lasting cooperation between European lead suppliers of telecom systems and technologies and lead suppliers of European microelectronics systems and technologies, in view of stimulating a telecom components ecosystem in Europe and to clearly increase European sovereignty in the domain. Is supported by advanced higher TRL design tools, e.g. EDA, PDK. Establishes a clear pathway towards downstream industrialisation in Europe and use of the relevant pilot lines from the Chips JU as a function of the eventual technology selection for implementation (to be covered in the Chips JU call) Contribute to the Apply AI Strategy policy of the Union Objective: Please refer to the "Specific Challenges and Objectives" section for Stream B-02 in the Work Programme, available under ‘Topic…