Millimeter-Wave Activities in Japan

Millimeter-wave activities in Japan have been reviewed historically and current technical trends in millimeter-wave region are shown. A number of interests are focused on wireless and short range communication systems, broadcasting systems, radar systems and sensor networks. Also a spectrum assignment plan and a road map for developing less-used spectrum are introduced based on the Japanese government policy, which can alleviate the hard congestion problem in low microwave regions. Moreover, compound and silicon semiconductor technologies, antenna technologies, module/packaging technologies applicable to millimeter-wave are introduced. Finally a standardization activity in millimeter-wave is also reported.