Design and Validation of Scalable Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces

In this paper, we share our experience in designing, prototyping, and empirically characterizing RF Switch-based Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces (RIS). Our RIS design consists of arrays of patch antennas, delay lines, and programmable radiofrequency (RF) switches, enabling 3D beamforming passively, without active RF components. Our design introduces two key innovations: (i) a modular structure that provides scalability for sustainable deployments, and (ii) the support for 3-bit phase shifters, enabling high-spatial resolution codebooks. We realized this design through PCB technology and affordable electronic components, then rigorously validated our prototype in a controlled setting. With this paper, we make a comprehensive characterization of our RIS publicly available via a large dataset, to promote further empirical-driven research on this topic. Finally, we present a cost analysis of our design, which underscores the importance of sustainable practices in shaping the future of wireless technologies.