Low-power listen in wireless communications

Abstract

Techniques pertaining to low-power enhanced multi-link single radio (EMLSR) listen in wireless communications are described. A first multi-link device (MLD) reduces power consumption while supporting a latency-sensitive application by performing certain operations. The first MLD first listens at a lower power in a narrower bandwidth to receive an initial physical-layer protocol data unit (PPDU) from a second MLD as part of a frame exchange. In response to receiving the initial PPDU, the first MLD switches from the narrower bandwidth to a wider bandwidth to complete the frame exchange with the second MLD in the wider bandwidth. In reducing the power consumption, the first MLD reduces its power consumption to the lower power when operating in the narrower bandwidth compared to a higher power used by the first MLD when operating in the wider bandwidth.