C-DOT, IIT Mandi and IIT Jammu Collaborate to Develop Wideband Spectrum-Sensor ASIC-Chip

January 14, 2025

The Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) has recently partnered with the Indian Institute of Technology Mandi (IIT Mandi) and IIT Jammu. This collaboration aims to develop a Wideband Spectrum-Sensor ASIC-Chip to enhance spectrum utilisation. The agreement, signed under the Telecom Technology Development Fund (TTDF), reflects investment in India’s telecommunication research and development. The TTDF supports Indian startups and institutions in creating innovative telecommunications solutions. This initiative is crucial for providing affordable broadband and mobile services, particularly in rural areas.

About Spectrum Sensing

Spectrum sensing is a technology that allows cognitive radio users to detect unused spectrum bands, known as spectrum holes. This capability enables efficient use of available bandwidth without interfering with existing networks. The goal is to improve overall spectrum efficiency, which is vital for meeting the increasing demand for wireless communication.

Project Objectives

The project seeks to create a reliable wideband spectrum sensing (WSS) algorithm. This algorithm will enhance the efficiency of spectrum utilisation, especially in rural India. By detecting under-utilised bands, it aims to provide better broadband services. Additionally, the project focuses on developing hardware architectures that offer quick sensing times and high data throughput.

Technical Specifications

The initiative targets the design of communication algorithms that are hardware-friendly. The focus will be on sensing wideband spectrum beyond 2 GHz. This includes developing a hardware solution capable of scanning over 2 GHz of spectrum with minimal sensing time. The project will also demonstrate a wideband cognitive radio module for the 6 GHz satellite band.

Implementation Strategies

Initial designs will be emulated in a field-programmable gate-array (FPGA) environment. Following this, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) semiconductor chip will be developed. This process will contribute to achieving better spectrum efficiency and creating intellectual properties (IPs) related to wideband spectrum sensing technology.

Collaborative Efforts and Goals

The signing ceremony included key figures such as Dr. Raj Kumar Upadhyay, CEO of C-DOT, and Dr. Rahul Shrestha from IIT Mandi. They brought into light the importance of indigenous technology in meeting India’s diverse telecommunications needs. The project aligns with government initiatives like “Atmanirbhar Bharat” and the “Make-In-India” mission, which aim to boost domestic manufacturing and innovation.

TTDF stands for Telecom Technology Development Fund.
WSS refers to Wideband Spectrum Sensing.
ASIC is an acronym for Application-Specific Integrated Circuit.
C-DOT is the Centre for Development of Telematics.
FPGA means Field-Programmable Gate Array.

Future Prospects

The collaboration between C-DOT, IIT Mandi, and IIT Jammu is poised to enhance India’s capabilities in telecommunications. The focus on developing cutting-edge technologies will play a vital role in bridging the digital divide. As the project progresses, it will contribute to the advancement of telecommunications infrastructure in India.

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