Microhop

Microhop refers to a very short-range wireless communication method. It is a subset of the broader category of ultra-wideband (UWB) technology, which utilizes a wide spectrum of radio frequencies to transmit data over short distances. The key characteristic of microhop is its extremely limited transmission range, often measured in mere centimeters or a few meters. This deliberate restriction in range is a design feature intended to enhance security and reduce interference with other devices.

The primary applications for microhop technology revolve around proximity-based interactions. Examples include secure device pairing, where two devices can establish a connection only when they are physically very close to each other, making it difficult for unauthorized devices to intercept the pairing process. It can also be used for contactless payments, secure access control, and precise indoor positioning systems. The low power consumption associated with microhop's short range also makes it suitable for battery-operated devices and Internet of Things (IoT) applications where energy efficiency is paramount.

Microhop systems typically operate in unlicensed frequency bands, allowing for widespread adoption without the need for regulatory licenses. The technology is designed to coexist with other wireless technologies by using very low power levels spread across a broad frequency spectrum. This spread-spectrum technique minimizes the impact on existing radio services. While often discussed in the context of UWB, microhop is specifically defined by its extremely short operational distance, differentiating it from other UWB applications that might have slightly longer ranges.