MIMO – Multiple Input Multiple Output
(MIMO) is a wireless technology that makes use of several transmitters and receivers to send more data simultaneously. MIMO is supported by all 802.11n wireless equipment. The technology enables 802.11n to operate at faster speeds.
The station (mobile device) or access point (AP) needs to enable MIMO in order to use it. Both the station and the AP must support MIMO for the device to operate at its best performance and range.
MIMO uses a common radio-wave phenomena known as multipath. With multipath, the information being sent bounces off of surfaces like walls, ceilings, and other objects, arriving at the receiving antenna numerous times at slightly varied angles and intervals. Multipath formerly resulted in interference and slowed wireless communications down. With multipath, MIMO technology uses multiple, smart transmitters and receivers with an added spatial dimension, increasing performance and range.
Through the use of MIMO, antennas can aggregate data streams coming in from various directions and at various times, enhancing the signal-capturing capacity of the receiver.
