Channel estimation for Massive MIMO systems aided by intelligent reflecting surface using semi-super resolution GAN

Intelligent Reflecting Surfaces (IRSs) coupled with Massive Multiple-Input-Multiple-Output (MIMO) millimeter wave (mmWave) systems hold immense promise for the next generation of wireless communications. However, harnessing their full potential requires accurate channel state information (CSI). Despite the benefits of IRSs, such as passive element integration and energy efficiency, precise channel estimation becomes a formidable challenge due to the absence of active elements. In this paper, we tackle these challenges by employing generative adversarial networks (GANs) to estimate the channel’s cascade matrix between the base station (BS) and mobile users. To leverage the high correlation among adjacent elements in the IRS, we propose turning off a majority of these elements during the estimation phase, effectively creating a low-resolution channel. We then introduce the semi-super resolution GAN (SSRGAN) model, capable of inferring channel values for the deactivated elements based on existing correlations. Our new SSRGAN-based channel estimation method transforms low-resolution channel data into high-resolution channel data. Through a comprehensive comparative analysis, our study showcases the superior performance of our SSRGAN channel estimation method compared to established benchmark schemes. •Introducing SSRGAN model for enhanced cascade channel estimation in IRS-MIMO mmWave.•Using a cluster delay line channel model from 3GPP standard ensures real-world relevance.•Directly converts low-resolution channel data to high-resolution without interpolation.•Activate a subset of IRS elements during channel estimation to reduce pilot signals.