Data rate maximization for terahertz communication systems using finite alphabets

With the emergence of numerous novel data-intensive applications, the demand on fast wireless access for huge data file transfer and fast mobile data access is growing rapidly. Following this trend, the “Terabit era” is expected to become a reality in the near future. Terahertz (THz) technology is promising as an enabler due to its unique features, among others such as extremely high bandwidth, resistance to eavesdropping and minimal risk to human health. However, a number of technical hurdles need to be overcome to achieve such ultra-fast data rate of Terabit-per-second (Tbps) in the THz spectrum. In this work, a fundamental insight into the modulation scheme design is aimed to be established for THz communication systems. A strategy for transmission scheme selection and a corresponding efficient power allocation algorithm are proposed. Bounds on the maximum distance are determined for which data rates in the order of Tbps can be achieved. The results provide a fundamental insight into the selection of THz transmission schemes for given performance requirements.