arrow
Return

A Unified Multicarrier Waveform Framework for Next-Generation Wireless Networks: Principles, Performance, and Challenges

delete2026-03-10
delete0
PRE
AI
X
Xingyao Zhang
H
Haoran Yin
Y
Yanqun Tang
Y
Yao Ge
Y
Yong Zeng
M
Miaowen Wen
Z
Zilong Liu
Y
Yong Liang Guan
H
Hüseyin Arslan
G
Giuseppe Caire
DOI:10.1109/COMST.2026.3672602delete
deleteOriginal
deleteOriginal request for help
deleteShare
deleteSave
Abstract

Abstract

En 中文
Next-generation wireless networks require enhanced flexibility, efficiency, and reliability in physical layer waveform design to address the challenges posed by heterogeneous channel conditions and stringent quality-of-service demands. To this end, this paper proposes a unified multicarrier waveform framework that provides a systematic characterization and practical implementation guidelines to facilitate waveform selection for the sixth-generation (6G) mobile networks and beyond. We commence by examining the design principles of the state-of-the-art waveforms, which are categorized into one-dimensional modulation waveforms (e.g., orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) and affine frequency division multiplexing (AFDM)) and two-dimensional modulation waveforms (e.g., orthogonal time frequency space (OTFS)). Their inherent resilience against various channel-induced interference is further studied, revealing their distinct suitability in diverse channel conditions. Furthermore, an in-depth performance analysis is presented by comparing their key performance indicators (KPIs), followed by an extensive exploration of these advanced waveforms in various applications. Consequently, this work aims to serve as a pivotal reference for waveform adoption in future 6G standardization and network deployment.
Keywords:
Multicarrier framework
waveform design
performance analysis
OFDM
AFDM
OTFS
delay-Doppler alignment modulation (DDAM)
multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO)
integrated sensing and communication (ISAC)

Journal

I
ieee communications surveys & tutorials
IF:
0
Papers:
67
Citations:
0

Organization

S
southeast university
Scholars:
2.9K
Papers: 1.3K
Citations: 0
S
sun yat-sen university
Scholars:
1.9W
Papers: 6.4K
Citations: 14
T
technical university of berlin
Scholars:
241
Papers: 130
Citations: 0
N
nanyang technological university
Scholars:
2.5K
Papers: 1.6K
Citations: 1
U
university of essex
Scholars:
548
Papers: 355
Citations: 0
I
istanbul medipol university
Scholars:
317
Papers: 184
Citations: 0
S
south china university of technology
Scholars:
6.6W
Papers: 5.0W
Citations: 85
researcher View more organizations