# Massive Synchrony in Distributed Antenna Systems

arXiv: https://arxiv.org/abs/2401.11730 · HTML: https://mlsanity.com/paper/2401.11730/

## Key facts

- Cited by 2 papers in the map (data through 14 Oct 2026).
- First posted on arXiv 22 Jan 2024.

## Built on by (most cited first, 2 of 2)

- [Deep-Learning-Based Channel Estimation for Distributed MIMO with 1-bit Radio-Over-Fiber Fronthaul](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2406.11325/) (2024)
- [Hybrid Channel Estimation with Quantized Phase Feedback for Over-the-Air Computation](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2601.16054/) (2026)

## Abstract (arXiv)

Distributed antennas must be phase-calibrated (phase-synchronized) for certain operations, such as reciprocity-based joint coherent downlink beamforming, to work. We use rigorous signal processing tools to analyze the accuracy of calibration protocols that are based on over-the-air measurements between antennas, with a focus on scalability aspects for large systems. We show that (i) for some who-measures-on-whom topologies, the errors in the calibration process are unbounded when the network grows; and (ii) despite that conclusion, it is optimal -- irrespective of the topology -- to solve a single calibration problem for the entire system and use the result everywhere to support the beamforming. The analyses are exemplified by investigating specific topologies, including lines, rings, and two-dimensional surfaces.