Channel modelling in underwater media: a wireless communication technique perspective

Abstract

Abstract With a broad scope of exploration and utilization of marine resources, the field of underwater wireless communication (UWC) is attracting the growing interest of researchers. Due to the highly complex and changing underwater environment, achieving minimal Doppler Effect, extensive communication range, maintaining link reliability, and high channel efficiency is challenging. Underwater information transfer can utilize various communication techniques, including Acoustic, Optical, Radio Frequency (RF), and Magnetic Induction (MI)-based communication. Accurate channel modelling is essential for optimizing UWC’s overall performance. Each underwater communication technique has its strengths and weaknesses. This review article discusses the detailed channel modelling of Acoustic, Optical, MI, and RF communications, comparing them across parameters such as path loss, channel capacity, channel error control protocols, bit error rate (BER), the impact of reconfigurable intelligent surface (RIS), and outage probability are briefly discussed. Additionally, critical unresolved issues related to the channel modelling of UWC techniques are highlighted. This review article will assist researchers in identifying research gaps and conducting further research in the field.