Ultra-Wideband (UWB) is a fast, secure, low-power, short-range radio technology that enables communication and positioning between devices with some very powerful differentiating functionalities. UWB can provide accurate indoor and outdoor positioning with sub-10 cm precision. UWB measures how long it takes for a radio pulse to travel between devices providing a higher level of accuracy that outperforms other technologies. As the name suggests, UWB can use a wide range of frequencies, between 3.1 GHz to 10.6 GHz.
Where is UWB used today?
The key applications of UWB technology are largely centered around its excellent positioning and sensing capabilities, making it suitable for use in a variety of industries wherever accurate positioning, small form factors, as well as long battery life is required. Industries such as consumer electronics, building access control, healthcare, retail, and the automotive sector benefit from the features of UWB:
- In the automotive sector, UWB can be used for hands-free vehicle access and personalization, enabling convenience and safety features such as keyless entry and ignition, remote parking, and vehicle tracking. Automotive safety features enabled by UWB include improved anti-theft protection systems, child position seat recognition, pedestrian and cyclist collision avoidance, and tire pressure monitoring system communications.
- In consumer electronics, UWB can be used for hands-free access control, device-to-device communications, location-based services, and proximity detection and authentication.
- In the building access control sector, UWB can be used to secure office buildings and other secure areas, as well as provide real-time indoor positioning and tracking of people and assets.
- In the healthcare sector, UWB can be used for patient monitoring and tracking to improve patient care and safety.
- Finally, in the retail sector, UWB can be used for inventory management and product tracking, as well as for customer tracking to provide personalized services.
The above diagram showcases some of the applications for UWB including access control to the parking area and keyless car access and ignition. The UWB sensors direct drivers to available parking slots and enable automated exit payments.
Where is UWB used today?
The UWB benefits cannot be realized without a reliable antenna. Thanks to the Virtual Antenna® technology’s versatility, broad bandwidth, and small size, optimized UWB communications can be easily done!
Want to have a more in-depth look at how Virtual Antenna® components perform within the UWB frequency range? Have a look at our Application Note. You can find it here.
