Deduction of Extrapolation Factors in Realistic Scenarios for In-Situ Assessment of 5G Base Stations

Abstract

Overview

Accurately assessing electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure in 5G networks is increasingly complex due to the emergence of technologies like beamforming. Traditional frequency-selective measurement methods can determine actual exposure values but fall short in distinguishing between specific beams or cells, whereas code-selective techniques allow this differentiation but involve intricate extrapolation reliant on often inaccessible network parameters such as beamforming patterns.

Methodology

• This study focuses on the evaluation of extrapolation factors like Fextbeam in both realistic indoor and outdoor 5G scenarios.
• Researchers employed a combination of frequency-selective and code-selective measurement approaches.
• EMF measurements were conducted under varying traffic conditions to assess the influence of beam patterns and network power on exposure estimates.

Findings

• Significant variability was observed in extrapolated exposure values, attributed primarily to differences in antenna radiation patterns.
• Outdoor environments demonstrated more stable extrapolation, emphasizing the particular influence of antenna patterns indoors.

Conclusion

Results highlight the critical need to understand antenna patterns and network configurations when assessing 5G-related EMF exposure, marking variability as an essential challenge for reliable in-situ exposure assessments. As different scenarios are influenced by unique antenna characteristics, accurate evaluation is essential to properly understand public EMF exposure risks associated with 5G base stations.