Backscattering-based Communication links for Body Area Network in the 5G S-band

Backscattering-based communication links is a valid option to interact with wireless sensors spread over the skin or integrated into clothes. To foster pervasive and usable applications, battery-less systems based on ambient and commodity signals should be preferred, better if involving emerging 5G infrastructures. In this scenario, the aim of the paper is to experimentally characterize the backscattering communication link between on-body antennas and external reader operating in the 5G S-band. Two links are explored: a short range one involving a single epidermal loop, and a medium range one based on a wearable array. Early experimental results confirm the possibility to establish a robust link, with estimated read distances up to 4m for both identification and sensing.