An Electromagnetic Information Theory Based Model for Efficient Characterization of MIMO Systems in Complex Space

It is the pursuit of a multiple-input–multiple-output (MIMO) system to approach and even break the limit of channel capacity. However, it is always a big challenge to efficiently characterize the MIMO systems in complex space and get better propagation performance than the conventional MIMO systems considering only free space, which is important for guiding the power and phase allocation of antenna units. In this article, an electromagnetic-information-theory (EMIT)-based model is developed for the efficient characterization of MIMO systems in complex space. The group-
$T$
-matrix-based multiple scattering fast algorithm, the mode-decomposition-based characterization method, and their joint theoretical framework in complex space are discussed. First, key informatics parameters in free EM space based on a dyadic Green’s function are derived. Next, a novel group-
$T$
-matrix-based multiple scattering fast algorithm is developed to describe a representative inhomogeneous EM space. All the analytical results are validated by simulations. In addition, the complete form of the EMIT-based model is proposed to derive the informatics parameters frequently used in EM propagation, by integrating the mode analysis method with the dyadic Green’s function matrix. Finally, as a proof-or-concept, microwave anechoic chamber measurements of a cylindrical array are performed, demonstrating the effectiveness of the EMIT-based model. Meanwhile, a case of image transmission with limited power is presented to illustrate how to use this EMIT-based model to guide the power and phase allocation of antenna units for real MIMO applications.