Giovanni Geraci

• PhD
• Professor (Associate) at Pompeu Fabra University

Communication, Navigation, and Surveillance (CNS) is the backbone of the Air Traffic Management (ATM) and Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) Traffic Management (UTM) systems, ensuring safe and efficient operations of modern and future aviation. Traditionally, the CNS is considered three independent systems: communications, navigation, and surveillance....

We present a general mathematical framework for optimizing cell deployment and antenna configuration in wireless networks, inspired by quantization theory. Unlike traditional methods, our framework supports networks with deterministically located nodes, enabling modeling and optimization under controlled deployment scenarios. We demonstrate our fra...

This paper presents a new system model to evaluate the capacity and power consumption of multi-layer 6G networks utilising the upper mid-band (FR3). The model captures heteroge- neous 4G, 5G, and 6G deployments, analyzing their performance under different deployment strategies. Our results show that strategic 6G deployments, non-co-located with exi...

We present a new framework based on quantization theory to design cellular networks optimized for both legacy ground users and uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV) corridors, dedicated aerial highways for safe UAV flights. Our framework leverages antenna tilts and transmit power at each base station to enhance coverage and quality of service among users....

In this article, we introduce a method to optimize 5G massive multiple-input multiple-output (mMIMO) connectivity for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) on aerial highways through strategic cell association. UAVs operating in 3D space encounter distinct channel conditions compared to traditional ground user equipment (gUE); under the typical line of s...

What will Wi-Fi 8 be? Driven by the strict requirements of emerging applications, next-generation Wi-Fi is set to prioritize ultra high reliability (UHR) above all. In this article, we explore the journey toward IEEE 802.11 bn UHR, the amendment that will form the basis of Wi-Fi 8. We first present new use cases calling for further Wi-Fi evolution...

IEEE 802.11 networks continuously adapt to meet the stringent requirements of emerging applications like cloud gaming, eXtended Reality (XR), and video streaming services, which require high throughput, low latency, and high reliability. To address these challenges, Coordinated Spatial Reuse (C-SR) can potentially contribute to optimizing spectrum...

Extended Reality (XR) has stringent throughput and delay requirements that are hard to meet with current wireless technologies. Missing these requirements can lead to worsened picture quality, perceived lag between user input and corresponding output, and even dizziness for the end user. In this paper, we study the capability of upcoming Wi-Fi 7, a...

Understanding telecom standards involves sorting through numerous technical documents, such as those produced by the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP), which is time-consuming and labor-intensive. While large language models (LLMs) can assist with the extensive 3GPP knowledge base, an inclusive dataset is crucial for their effective pre-tra...

This article proposes a generative neural network architecture for spatially consistent air-to-ground channel modeling. The approach considers the trajectories of uncrewed aerial vehicles along typical urban paths, capturing spatial dependencies within received signal strength (RSS) sequences from multiple cellular base stations (gNBs). Through the...

With the arrival of the peak smartphone era, users are upgrading their smartphones less frequently, and data growth is decelerating. To ensure effective spectrum management decisions, policy makers require a thorough understanding of prospective wireless broadband technologies, current trends and emerging issues. Here, we review the sixth cellular...

In this article, we introduce a novel approach for enhancing cellular connectivity for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) on aerial highways via terrestrial 5G networks. Owing to their ability to navigate 3D space, UAVs may experience favourable channel gains across multiple network cells; thus, from a network operators perspective, selecting serving...

Non-terrestrial networks (NTN) have emerged as a transformative solution to bridge the digital divide and deliver essential services to remote and underserved areas. In this context, low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellations offer remarkable potential for efficient cache content broadcast in remote regions, thereby extending the reach of digit...

Non-terrestrial networks (NTN) offer potential for efficient content broadcast in remote regions, thereby extending the reach of digital services. In this paper, we introduce a novel approach to optimize wireless edge content placement using NTN. Specifically, we dynamically select content for placement via NTN links based on popularity and suitabi...

As traditional cellular base stations (BSs) are optimized for 2D ground service, providing 3D connectivity to uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAVs) requires re-engineering of the existing infrastructure. In this paper, we propose a new methodology for designing cellular networks that cater for both ground users and UAV corridors based on Bayesian optimiz...

We present a new framework based on quantization theory to design cellular networks optimized for both legacy ground users and uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV) corridors, dedicated aerial highways for safe UAV flights. Our framework leverages antenna tilts and transmit power at each base station to enhance coverage and quality of service among users....

In this article, we investigate the real-world capability of the multi-link operation (MLO) framework -- one of the key MAC-layer features included in the IEEE 802.11be amendment -- by using a large dataset containing 5 GHz spectrum occupancy measurements on multiple channels. Our results show that when both available links are often busy, as is th...

Multi-link Operation (MLO), arguably the most disruptive feature introduced in IEEE 802.11be, will cater for delay-sensitive applications by using multiple radio interfaces concurrently. In this paper, we analyze the delay distribution of MLO under non-saturated traffic. Our results show that upgrading from legacy single-link to MLO successfully co...

In this article, we introduce a new metric for driving the serving cell selection process of a swarm of cellular connected unmanned aerial vehicles (CCUAVs) located on aerial highways when served by a massive multiple input multiple output (mMIMO) terrestrial network. Selecting the optimal serving cell from several suitable candidates is not straig...

What will Wi-Fi 8 be? Driven by the strict requirements of emerging applications, next-generation Wi-Fi is set to prioritize Ultra High Reliability (UHR) above all. In this paper, we explore the journey towards IEEE 802.11bn UHR, the amendment that will form the basis of Wi-Fi 8. After providing an overview of the nearly completed Wi-Fi 7 standard,...

One of the consequences of network densification is more frequent handovers (HO). HO failures have a direct impact on the quality of service and are undesirable, especially in scenarios with strict latency, reliability, and robustness constraints. In traditional networks, HO-related parameters are usually tuned by the network operator, and automate...

In this article, we introduce a new mathematical framework for the analysis and design of UAV corridors in cellular networks, while considering a realistic network deployment, antenna radiation pattern, and propagation channel model. By leveraging quantization theory, we optimize the electrical tilts of existing ground cellular base stations to max...

In this article, we investigate the real-world capability of the multi-link operation (MLO) framework—one of the key MAC-layer features included in the IEEE 802.11be amendment—by using a large dataset containing 5 GHz spectrum occupancy measurements on multiple channels. Our results show that when both available links are often busy, as is the case...

Multi-link Operation (MLO), arguably the most disruptive feature introduced in IEEE 802.11be, will cater for delay-sensitive applications by using multiple radio interfaces concurrently. In this paper, we analyze the delay distribution of MLO under non-saturated traffic. Our results show that upgrading from legacy single-link to MLO successfully co...

The millimeter wave bands are being increasingly considered for wireless communication to unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Critical to this undertaking are statistical channel models that describe the distribution of constituent parameters in scenarios of interest. This paper presents a general modeling methodology based on data-training a generati...

Will Wi-Fi 7, conceived to support extremely high throughput, also deliver consistently low delay? The best hope seems to lie in allowing next-generation devices to access multiple channels via multi-link operation (MLO). In this paper, we aim to advance the understanding of MLO, placing the spotlight on its packet delay performance. We show that M...

5G millimeter-wave (mmWave) cellular networks are in the early phase of commercial deployments and present a unique opportunity for robust, high-data-rate communication to unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). A fundamental question is whether and how mmWave networks designed for terrestrial users should be modified to serve UAVs. The paper invokes real...

With growing interest in integrating terrestrial networks (TNs) and non-terrestrial networks (NTNs) to connect the unconnected, a key question is whether this new paradigm could also be opportunistically exploited to augment service in urban areas. We assess this possibility in the context of an integrated TN-NTN, comprising a ground cellular deplo...

Integrating terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks has the potential of connecting the unconnected and enhancing the user experience for the already-connected, with technological and societal implications of the greatest long-term significance. A convergence of ground, air, and space wireless communications also represents a formidable endeavor f...

Wi-Fi 7 is already in the making, and Multi-Link Operation (MLO) is one of the main features proposed in its correspondent IEEE 802.11be amendment. MLO will allow devices to coordinate multiple radio interfaces to access separate channels through a single association, aiming for improved throughput, network delay, and overall spectrum reuse efficie...

What will the future of UAV cellular communications be? In this tutorial article, we address such a compelling yet difficult question by embarking on a journey from 5G to 6G and expounding a large number of case studies supported by original results. We start by overviewing the status quo on UAV communications from an industrial standpoint, providi...

Integrating terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks has the potential of connecting the unconnected and enhancing the user experience for the already-connected, with technological and societal implications of the greatest long-term significance. A convergence of ground, air, and space wireless communications also represents a formidable endeavor f...

Will Multi-Link Operation (MLO) be able to improve the latency of Wi-Fi networks? MLO is one of the most disruptive MAC-layer techniques included in the IEEE 802.11be amendment. It allows a device to use multiple radios simultaneously and in a coordinated way, providing a new framework to improve the WLAN throughput and latency. In this paper, we i...

What will the future of UAV cellular communications be? In this tutorial article, we address such a compelling yet difficult question by embarking on a journey from 5G to 6G and sharing a large number of realistic case studies supported by original results. We start by overviewing the status quo on UAV communications from an industrial standpoint,...

With growing interest in mmWave connectivity for UAVs, a basic question is whether networks intended for terrestrial users can provide sufficient aerial coverage as well. To assess this possibility, the paper proposes a novel evaluation methodology using generative models trained on detailed ray tracing data. These models capture complex propagatio...

As hordes of data-hungry devices challenge its current capabilities, Wi-Fi strikes back with 802.11be, alias Wi-Fi 7. This brand new amendment promises a (r)evolution of unlicensed wireless connectivity as we know it. To appreciate its foreseen impact, we start by overviewing the latest Wi-Fi-related news, with emphasis on the recently launched Wi-...

Wireless communication at millimeter wave frequencies has attracted considerable attention for the delivery of high-bit-rate connectivity to unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). However, conducting the channel measurements necessary to assess communication at these frequencies has been challenging due to the severe payload and power restrictions in com...

The millimeter wave bands are being increasingly considered for wireless communication to unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Critical to this undertaking are statistical channel models that describe the distribution of constituent parameters in scenarios of interest. This paper presents a general modeling methodology based on data-training a generati...

In this chapter, the authors adopt the view of a mobile network operator that, by rolling out its massive multiple input–multiple output (MIMO) based 5G network, aims to offer communication services to both ground users (GUEs) and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) simultaneously, reusing its cellular spectrum and infrastructure. After evaluating the...

Statistical channel models are instrumental to design and evaluate wireless communication systems. In the millimeter wave bands, such models become acutely challenging; they must capture the delay, directions, and path gains, for each link and with high resolution. This paper presents a general modeling methodology based on training generative neur...

In this article, we consider a cellular network deployment where UAV-to-UAV (U2U) transmit-receive pairs coexist with the uplink (UL) of cellular ground users (GUEs). Our analysis focuses on comparing two spectrum sharing mechanisms: i) overlay, where the available time-frequency resources are split into orthogonal portions for U2U and GUE communic...

In this article, we evaluate the performance of the parameterized spatial reuse (PSR) framework of IEEE 802.11ax, mainly focusing on its impact on transmission latency. Based on detailed standard-compliant system-level simulations, we provide a realistic analysis of the effects of PSR considering different scenario densities, traffic loads, and acc...

As hordes of data-hungry devices challenge its current capabilities, Wi-Fi strikes back with 802.11be, alias Wi-Fi 7. This brand-new amendment promises a (r)evolution of unlicensed wireless connectivity as we know it. With its standardisation process being consolidated, we provide an updated digest of 802.11be essential features, vouching for multi...

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are emerging as enablers for supporting many applications and services, such as precision agriculture, search and rescue, temporary network deployment or coverage extension, and security. UAVs are being considered for integration into emerging 5G networks as aerial users or network support nodes. We propose to levera...

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are emerging as enablers for supporting many applications and services, such as precision agriculture, search and rescue, temporary network deployment or coverage extension, and security. UAVs are being considered for integration into emerging 5G networks as aerial users or network support nodes. We propose to levera...

We consider a cellular network deployment where UAV-to-UAV (U2U) transmit-receive pairs share the same spectrum with the uplink (UL) of cellular ground users (GUEs). For this setup, we focus on analyzing and comparing the performance of two spectrum sharing mechanisms: (i) underlay, where the same time-frequency resources may be accessed by both UA...

We consider a cellular network deployment where UAV-to-UAV (U2U) transmit-receive pairs share the same spectrum with the uplink (UL) of cellular ground users (GUEs). For this setup, we focus on analyzing and comparing the performance of two spectrum sharing mechanisms: (i) underlay, where the same time-frequency resources may be accessed by both UA...

We study support for unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) communications through a cell-free massive MIMO architecture, wherein a large number of access points (APs) is deployed in place of large co-located massive MIMO arrays. We consider also a variation of the pure cell-free architecture by applying a user-centric association approach, where each user...

We study support for unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) communications through a cell-free massive MIMO architecture, wherein a large number of access points (APs) is deployed in place of large co-located massive MIMO arrays. We consider also a variation of the pure cell-free architecture by applying a user-centric association approach, where each user...

Reliable and direct communication between unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) could facilitate autonomous flight, collision avoidance, and cooperation in UAV swarms. In this paper, we consider UAV-to-UAV (U2U) communications underlaying a cellular network, where UAV transmit-receive pairs share the same spectrum with the uplink (UL) of cellular ground...

In this paper, we focus on one of the key technologies for the fifth-generation wireless communication networks, massive multiple-input-multiple-output (mMIMO), by investigating two of its most relevant architectures: 1) to provide in-band backhaul for the ultra-dense network (UDN) of self-backhauled small cells (SCs), and 2) to provide direct acce...

We investigate the interfering channel estimation in radar and communication coexistence, where a multi-input-multi-output (MIMO) radar is operated in a “search and track” mode, and a MIMO base station (BS) is attempting to acquire the interfering channel state information (ICSI) between them, which is required for the precoding designs. In contras...

In this paper, we focus on the coexistence between a MIMO radar and cellular base stations. We study the interfering channel estimation, where the radar is operated in the “search and track" mode, and the BS receives the interference from the radar. Unlike the conventional methods where the radar and the cellular systems fully cooperate with each o...

The 5G air interface, namely, dynamic multiple access (MA) based on multiuser superposition transmission (MUST) and orthogonal multiple access (OMA), may require complicated scheduling and heavy signaling overhead. To address these challenges, we propose a unified MA scheme for future cellular networks, which we refer to as structured multiuser sup...

We study support for unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) communications through a cell-free massive MIMO architecture. Under the general assumption that the propagation channel between the mobile stations, either UAVs or ground users, and the access points follows a Ricean distribution, we derive closed form spectral efficiency lower bounds for uplink an...

Together with ultra‐dense networks, massive MIMO (mMIMO) has also emerged as one of the disruptive technologies for the next‐generation wireless communications systems, where APs are envisioned to be equipped with a large number of antennas. This chapter describes the fundamentals behind mMIMO‐unlicensed (mMIMO‐U), a technology that, if adopted, co...

The purpose of this article is to bestow the reader with a timely study of UAV cellular communications, bridging the gap between the 3GPP standardization status quo and the more forward-looking research. Special emphasis is placed on the downlink command and control (C&C) channel to aerial users, whose reliability is deemed of paramount technologic...

The 5G air interface, namely, dynamic multiple access (MA) based on multiuser superposition transmission (MUST) and orthogonal multiple access (OMA), may require complicated scheduling and heavy signaling overhead. To address these challenges, we propose a a unified MA scheme for future cellular networks, which we refer to as structured multiuser s...

In this paper, we focus on one of the key technologies for the fifth-generation wireless communication networks, massive multiple-input-multiple-output (mMIMO), by investigating two of its most relevant architectures: 1) to provide in-band wireless backhauling to a dense deployment of self-backhauled small cells (SCs) acting as communication relays...

Uplink power control is an efficient scheme to mitigate pilot contamination in massive multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) systems. In this work, we provide a comprehensive study on the effects of fractional power control (FPC) on the downlink performance of the most relevant fifth generation (5G) massive MIMO deployments. Specifically, we perfor...

In this paper, we focus on the coexistence between a MIMO radar and cellular base stations. We study the interfering channel estimation, where the radar is operated in the "search and track" mode, and the BS receives the interference from the radar. Unlike the conventional methods where the radar and the cellular systems fully cooperate with each o...

In this paper, we focus on the coexistence between a MIMO radar and cellular base stations. We study the interfering channel estimation, where the radar is operated in the "search and track" mode, and the BS receives the interference from the radar. Unlike the conventional methods where the radar and the cellular systems fully cooperate with each o...

A key aspect of the fifth-generation wireless communication network will be the integration of different services and technologies to provide seamless connectivity. In this paper, we consider using massive multiple-input multiple-output (mMIMO) to provide backhaul links to a dense deployment of self-backhauling (s-BH) small cells (SCs) that provide...

What will it take for drones -- and the whole associated ecosystem -- to take off? Arguably, infallible command and control (C&C) channels for safe and autonomous flying, and high-throughput links for multi-purpose live video streaming. And indeed, meeting these aspirations may entail a full cellular support, provided through 5G-and-beyond hardware...

The purpose of this article is to bestow the reader with a timely study of UAV cellular communications, bridging the gap between the 3GPP standardization status quo and the more forward-looking research. Special emphasis is placed on the downlink command and control (C&C) channel to aerial users, whose reliability is deemed of paramount technologic...

In this article, we provide a much-needed study of UAV cellular communications, focusing on the rates achievable for the UAV downlink command and control (C&C) channel. For this key performance indicator, we perform a realistic comparison between existing deployments operating in single-user mode and next-generation multi-user massive MIMO systems....