What Is MIMO? Multiple-Input Multiple-Output Explained

Daisyupdated on Mar 22, 2023 |Home>Knowledge Center

There are many different types of tech that are used in computers today. While some technologies have evolved or are more advanced creations, some have come a long way from their initial phases. One such technology is MIMO.

So, what exactly is MIMO? How does it work, and what does it do? In this article, we'll try to answer this question and help you understand the basics of MIMO and what makes it so important today; so, let's dive right into it.

What Is MIMO?

MIMOis a wireless communication technology that has been around since the 1990s, but it has only recently been used in the consumer market. MIMO works by using multiple antennas and signal processing techniques to improve data rates and range.

In other words, MIMO can improve signal quality by sending more data at once on the same frequency. The term "MIMO" is an acronym for "Multiple-Input Multiple-Output," which means that it uses both transmitters and receivers to send and receive signals.

According to experts, all wireless technologies today based on the MIMO model allow 802.11n support. So, the purpose of this technology is to help devices support higher speeds than just the ones that support 802.11n.

It's also important to understand that MIMO uses a natural radio wave known as multipath. That's why it can easily surpass obstacles like walls, ceilings, or other hindrances and reach the signals' endpoint.

Think of the WIFI router inside your home or office. You might have wondered how you get signals rooms or corridors away. This is how it allows the signals to bounce off obstacles and reach their target location.

How Does MIMO Work?

Understanding how MIMO works are as easy as it comes. As mentioned above, it uses a natural radio-wave phenomenon called multipath. This multipath technology allows it to tackle obstacles to send signals.

But, there are a few things you need to understand to comprehend how MIMO works, such as:

  • MIMO's implementation requires that the mobile device features a key access point (AP), which also supports MIMO.
  • In order for a smooth back-and-forth connection, both ends must support MIMO, i.e., the sender and the receiver.
  • Multipath allows MIMO technology to send signals through obstacles, as the transmitted information simply tees off on walls, ceilings, or other obstacles on the way to the other endpoint.
  • Smart transmitters are added to MIMO tech to ensure spatial dimension support and enhanced coverage in congested or closed areas.

此外,重要的是要明白antennas can add to the strength of MIMO's multipath. For instance, a two-antenna router might only send 300 MBPS from one endpoint to another. Whereas a three-antenna router will be capable of sending 450-600 MBPS.

What Is MU-MIMO?

MU-MIMO (Multi-user MIMO) is a wireless technology that can be used to improve the performance of Wi-Fi networks.MU-MIMO stands for Multi-user MIMO. It is a wireless technology that can be used to improve the performance of Wi-Fi networks.

The technology is built on the idea of multiple users being able to share the same Wi-Fi channel, thereby increasing its efficiency. Therefore, in a way, it's the latest technology and version of MIMO, which makes it a more advanced addition to the wireless arsenal.

Conclusion

These are some of the key things to know about MIMO or multiple-input-multiple-output technology. So, it's not only important in Wireless technology today, but it's the basic pillar of it. That's why you might find names related to it in computer or mobile phone settings.

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Updated byDaisy

Daisy is the Senior editor of the writing team for EaseUS. She has been working in EaseUS for over ten years, starting from a technical writer to a team leader of the content group. As a professional author for over 10 years, she writes a lot to help people overcome their tech troubles.

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