NearLink Wireless Short-Range Communication Technology

Introduction

NearLink (formerly SparkLink) is a fully original next-generation wireless short-range communication technology, with standards developed by the NearLink Alliance. Founded by Huawei on September 22, 2020, the alliance had over 300 members by September 2023, including industry organizations, automakers, chip/module vendors, application developers, ICT companies, and research institutions.

NearLink offers two air interface technologies: SLB (SparkLink Basic) for high-performance access and SLE (SparkLink Low Energy) for low-power access. It addresses trends in smart vehicles, homes, terminals, and manufacturing, meeting demands for ultra-low latency, high reliability, high data rates, anti-interference, security, and precise synchronization.

01. System Architecture and Key Features

NearLink comprises the access layer, basic service layer, and basic application layer.

• Access Layer: Includes Grant nodes (managers) and Terminal nodes. One Grant node manages multiple terminals with centralized scheduling for high concurrency and collision avoidance.

• SLB: Uses OFDM waveform for ultra-low latency (20 μs), high reliability (>99.9999%), and synchronization (<1 μs). Targets Wi-Fi-like scenarios (e.g., vehicle active noise cancellation, industrial motion control).

• SLE: Single-carrier transmission for 250 μs interactions, 256-user access, and 12 Mbps rates. Targets Bluetooth-like low-cost, low-power scenarios (e.g., wireless earbuds, industrial data collection). SLE complements SLB for different use cases.

• Basic Service and Application Layers: Unified protocols. Service layer handles device discovery, service/connection/QoS management, and 5G integration. Application layer enables functions with TLS/TLCP for IP-based security and app-specific for non-IP.

02. Applications

• Smart Homes: Evolves from single-device automation to interconnected and AI-driven proactive services. Supports whole-home intelligence, edge computing, multi-screen controls, and stable coverage amid diverse devices and protocols.

• Smart Terminals: Covers smartphones, earbuds, wearables, VR glasses, PCs, and routers. Meets demands for high-definition audio, app updates, file transfers, and low-power longevity in battery-powered devices.

• Smart Manufacturing: Enables ubiquitous, wireless, fused networks for "dumb" device upgrades and cable-free production. Supports line control, data collection, AGV remote control, and predictive maintenance. Integrates with 5G/edge gateways for cloud upload and self-organizing networks.

• Smart Vehicles: Shifts cars to mobile smart spaces with centralized domain controllers. Replaces wired comms for entertainment (noise cancellation, lossless audio), info (streaming mirrors), comfort (lighting), and safety (BMS).

03. Technical Advantages

1. Low Power: Efficient management extends battery life in standby/low-load states.

2. Low Latency: Ultra-low delays suit real-time apps like gaming and AV communication.

3. High Data Rates: Far exceeds traditional Bluetooth/Wi-Fi for HD video and large files.

4. High Reliability: Strong anti-interference ensures stable connections in complex environments, with multi-device support.

NearLink meets demands for speed, range, reliability, and latency in a digital era, enhancing daily life and work. Contact us for chip/solution details and one-stop support.