What is Beam Steering ?
Beam steering is the dynamic redirection of a focused radio beam to continuously track a moving user or adapt to changing signal blockage conditions. It is a critical operational capability for 5G NR mmWave deployments where each beam covers a narrow spatial sector.
How Does Beam Steering Work ?
Beam steering updates the phase-shift coefficients of phased array elements in real time. In 5G, the beam management framework (3GPP TS 38.213) defines four procedures: beam sweeping (gNB cycles through beam directions using SSBs), beam measurement (UE measures beam quality), beam determination (optimal beam selected), and beam failure recovery (detecting and recovering from sudden blockage).
Use Cases
Tracking pedestrians and vehicles in mmWave 5G cells, recovering from sudden beam blockage (e.g. hand blocking the phone antenna), high-density venue deployments where users move frequently.
3GPP / Standards Reference
3GPP TS 38.213 (Physical Layer Procedures for Control), TS 38.300
Related Terms
Beamforming | Beam acquisition | Phased array antenna | mmWave | FR2
This glossary entry is part of the 5GWorldPro Complete 5G Glossary. To go deeper into 5G architecture and technology, explore our 5G Training courses.
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This glossary entry is part of the 5GWorldPro Complete 5G Glossary. To go deeper into 5G architecture and technology, explore our 5G Training courses.
