Abstract:
In this article, a general model for non-iterative joint equalization and decoding is systematically derived for use in
systems transmitting convolutionally encoded BPSK-modulated information through a multipath channel, with and
without interleaving. Optimal equalization and decoding are discussed first, by presenting the maximum likelihood
sequence estimation and maximum a posteriori probability algorithms and relating them to equalization in
single-carrier channels with memory, and to the decoding of convolutional codes. The non-iterative joint
equalizer/decoder (NI-JED) is then derived for the case where no interleaver is used, as well as for the case when block
interleavers of varying depths are used, and complexity analyses are performed in each case. Simulation results are
performed to compare the performance of the NI-JED to that of a conventional turbo equalizer (CTE), and it is shown
that the NI-JED outperforms the CTE, although at much higher computational cost. This article serves to explain the
state-of-the-art to students and professionals in the field of wireless communication systems, presenting these
fundamental topics clearly and concisely.
