Improved High Frequency Communications Navy SBIR FY2012.1 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2012.1 Topic No.: N121-097 Topic Title: Improved High Frequency Communications Proposal No.: N121-097-0165 Firm: Kuma Signals, LLC 5926 Balcones Dr. Ste. 230 Austin, Texas 78731 Contact: Steven Peters Phone: (512) 879-6384 Web Site: http://www.kumasignals.com Abstract: Kuma Signals LLC, in partnership with Rockwell Collins, propose to leverage our experience in HF multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) communications, networking, and waveform design, to develop a new wideband HF (WBHF) waveform for high-rate Marine communications. The new waveform will allow trade-offs between a 4x data rate increase, 100x reliability increase, and 3x range increase over the current state-of-the-art in WBHF designs. Using 2-channel near vertical incidence skywave (NVIS) MIMO provides a 2x data rate increase. We will also investigate the use of low-complexity equalizers that have proven successful in enabling wide bandwidths at UHF in commercial broadband standards. In particular, low-complexity equalizers enable a 2x bandwidth increase over the currently proposed 24kHz channels. To increase reliability and connectivity, two existing HF networking protocols will be compared for suitability for Marine operations. Further, by designing our waveform to have adaptable bandwidths, we will work with our partners and spectrum regulatory bodies to ensure a 48kHz waveform does not impede existing traffic. The result of our Phase I Option will be a TRL 4 prototype utilizing our Karma MIMO software defined radio platform. Benefits: The proposed work will directly benefit the U.S. Marines and Army, allowing high-rate communications with HF radios over long distances, especially in satellite-denied environments. Performance is 100x more reliable than current wideband HF standards, and reliability may be traded off for 4x throughput. Targeted platforms include the AN/PRC-150 and the Rockwell Collins FlexNet Four radio. Return