Least Squares Interpolation Methods for LTE SystemChannel Estimation over Extended ITU Channels

Abstract

Abstract — Performance of pilot-aided channel estimation techniques such as the Least Squares (LS) method depends on not only on the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), channel conditions and pilot ratio, but also on the choice of interpolation method for deriving channel estimates at non-pilot subcarriers. This paper investigates the bit-error-rate (BER) performance of linear, spline and Piecewise Cubic Hermite Interpolating Polynomial (PCHIP) interpolation methods in LS channel estimation over the three extended ITU channel profiles defined for Long Term Evolution (LTE) testing. Simulation results show that applying the linear interpolation method produces the best BER performance over the fading channel with the smallest multipath delay spread. It is also shown that the choice of best interpolation method actually depends on the SNR in some of the fading channel profiles. Index Terms—ITU, LS, LTE, PCHIP, spline. I. INTRODUCTION Orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) technology has been adopted in many of the next generation communication systems such as Long Term Evolution (LTE) and Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX) [1]. OFDM is preferred not only because it offers high data rate transmission but also because of its flexibility and robustness against multipath fading [1]. Multipath channel fading exists when multiple delayed copies of a transmitted signal are received at the receiver, thereby resulting in the distortion of the transmitted signal. These distortions are collectively termed „channel fading‟, causing reception errors and hence increased bit-error-rate (BER). Channel fading can be broadly classified as time-selective and/or frequency selective, depending on the relationship between the fading channel and the transmitted signal parameters [2]. To combat multipath fading and improve BER, some form of channel estimation method is required in order to estimate the channel distortion effect for each of the active subcarriers within an OFDM symbol [3].