The Role of Preferred Scanning Channels (PSC) in Enhancing Wi-Fi 7 Connectivity

AUGUST, 2024

As wireless technology continues to evolve, Wi-Fi standards have become increasingly complex to meet the demands of modern communication needs. The latest iteration, Wi-Fi 7, promises faster speeds, lower latency, and improved performance. However, as with any technological advancement, new challenges arise. One such challenge in Wi-Fi 7 is the sheer number of available channels in the 6 GHz band, which can lead to inefficient scanning processes and connectivity issues. To address this, the Preferred Scanning Channels (PSC) function has been introduced as a key feature of Wi-Fi 7, offering a solution to the time-consuming scanning process and reducing the likelihood of connection disruptions.

Wi-Fi 7 operates in the 6 GHz band, which significantly expands the available spectrum for wireless communication. With up to 59 channels available, this increase provides a substantial boost to network capacity, allowing more devices to connect simultaneously without interference. However, this abundance of channels also brings a new challenge: scanning for available channels can become a time-consuming process, especially when the network is congested or when devices are in motion, such as in a mobile environment.

In traditional Wi-Fi networks, devices scan all available channels to find the best one for communication. This process involves listening to each channel in turn, identifying which are in use, and selecting the optimal one for connection. While this method works well in networks with fewer channels, the introduction of the 6 GHz band with its 59 channels presents a significant challenge. Scanning all these channels takes time, which can lead to delays in establishing a connection or even cause brief interruptions in communication. This is particularly problematic in environments where low latency is critical, such as in online gaming, video conferencing, or industrial applications.

The introduction of the Preferred Scanning Channels (PSC) function in Wi-Fi 7 is a direct response to this challenge. PSCs are a subset of channels within the 6 GHz band that are designated specifically for the initial scanning process. Instead of scanning all 59 channels, devices equipped with the PSC function only scan a select 15 channels, significantly reducing the time required to establish a connection. The complete list of all the 6 GHz PSC channels is 5, 21, 37, 53, 69, 85, 101, 117, 133, 149, 165, 181, 197, 213, 229. This streamlined scanning process not only enhances the efficiency of the network but also reduces the likelihood of connection drops, making Wi-Fi 7 more reliable and responsive.

The implementation of PSCs in Wi-Fi 7 represents a strategic approach to managing the complexity of the 6 GHz band. By limiting the initial scan to a smaller number of channels, the network can quickly identify and connect to an appropriate channel without sacrificing performance. Once the connection is established, the device can then scan additional channels as needed to optimize performance or switch channels if interference is detected. This two-step approach ensures that the network remains both efficient and flexible, adapting to the demands of the environment without causing unnecessary delays.

Moreover, the PSC function is particularly beneficial in densely populated areas where multiple Wi-Fi networks coexist. In such environments, the potential for interference is high, and the need for a quick and reliable connection is paramount. By reducing the time spent scanning, PSCs help to minimize the impact of interference and ensure that devices can connect to the network quickly and reliably. This is especially important for applications that require consistent and uninterrupted communication, such as smart home devices, autonomous vehicles, and industrial automation systems.

In addition to improving connection reliability, the PSC function also contributes to the overall energy efficiency of Wi-Fi 7 devices. Scanning a large number of channels consumes power, which can drain the battery of mobile devices or increase the energy consumption of access points (APs). By limiting the scan to a smaller number of channels, PSCs reduce the energy required for channel scanning, extending the battery life of devices and reducing the operational costs of the network. This is an important consideration in a world where energy efficiency is becoming increasingly important, both for environmental reasons and for the practicality of maintaining long-lasting, reliable devices.

By reducing the number of channels that need to be scanned during the initial connection process, PSCs improve the efficiency, reliability, and energy efficiency of Wi-Fi 7 networks. As Wi-Fi continues to evolve and adapt to the growing demands of modern communication, features like PSCs will play a vital role in ensuring that wireless networks remain fast, reliable, and capable of meeting the needs of an increasingly connected world. For companies seeking to leverage this advanced technology, Emplus offers comprehensive OEM/ODM services for Wi-Fi 7 products, ensuring that your business can stay ahead in the competitive wireless industry.