The Access Technologies (AT) Area is devoted to the study, design, and optimization of Access Networks. It is structured into two core research lines:

The Cognitive and Multicarrier Networks Research Line aims at improving the performance and robustness of wireless access systems, including Local and Wide Area Networks (mainly based on 802.11/16 technology) as well as cellular networks (3GPP UMTS and LTE-A). Its core objectives are the design of intelligent, cognitive network architectures that are able to optimize the resource allocation either in a centralized or a distributed fashion. In order to achieve this goal, properties of advanced multi-carrier radio interfaces, including filter banks and single-carrier with frequency domain equalization are exploited. This research line also focuses on purpose-driven networks such as wireless sensor networks, vehicular networks, and satellite broadband and mobile systems. Advanced mathematical tools from optimization theory, game theory, machine learning and detection and estimation theory are widely used to solve the problems described.

The Network Information Theory Research Line studies the theoretical limits on the capacity of networks, with a special interest on wireless scenarios. Wireless networks are evolving from single to multiple wireless hops, and their performance is being pushed closer to their physical limits. We use network information theory to produce results on the limits of achievable capacity of these networks, which provide useful insights into the design of practical systems. This research line also focuses on the design of coding and transmission schemes at a network level, also known as network coding. Finally, another area of interest is joint source-channel coding for enhanced multimedia transmission.

Application-driven research also falls within the scope of the AT Area, mainly in the areas of health, intelligent transportation systems, and machine-type communications in general.

For up-to-date information, recent news, and upcoming events, visit the Wiki of the Access Technology Area.