Shipboard V-Band Wireless Network

The frequency band centered around 60 GHz is characterized by an increased level of attenuation caused by the absorption of millimeter waves by the oxygen in the atmosphere. This unique property makes 60 GHz an ideal frequency for designing highly secure networks for use on-board Navy ships. For this Phase 1 study, we propose to investigate the design of a frequency up/down converter to take 802.11 signals and translate them to the 60 GHz band for transmission. Upon reception, the signals are translated back to the lower frequency band. This converter is an appliqué, so minimal changes need be made to the existing wireless hardware. Indeed, this approach allows for dual mode operation. This appliqué, coupled with AEPTEC's line of highly secure, FIPS certified 802.11 wireless products will be a cost effective approach to meet the Navy's need for secure wireless connectivity. Also as part of the phase 1 effort, we will study the propagation environment on board a Navy ship and suggest an effective network topology to mitigate the deleterious effects typically seen at millimetric frequencies.