Experimental validation of terahertz pointing error and jitter effects

Existing analytical models for the statistical distribution of misalignment under mechanical vibration (jitter) are experimentally tested in a real word THz communication system. The measurements presented here are the first real-world study of this effect, implemented over a realistic building-to-building backhaul distance of several hundred meters. The results exhibit unexpected behavior that is not accounted for or matched by the existing analytical models. An explanation for this difference is proposed, a new method of modeling is demonstrated, and the impact on several key performance metrics is explored. These results compel the refinement of THz channel models and performance metrics in the presence of vibration, and demonstrate the need for multidisciplinary mechanical, control systems, and communication engineering in the deployment of THz backhaul links.