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Wireless & Mobility · Intermediate

Spatial Multiplexing (SM)

Sending multiple unique data streams over the same channel at the same time using different antennas.

Definition

Spatial multiplexing increases throughput by transmitting parallel streams, relying on multipath to make them distinguishable. The receiver needs at least as many radio chains as streams. It is the core throughput feature of MIMO.

Exam tip

Spatial multiplexing increases capacity; beamforming increases signal strength.

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