Rate maximizing OFDM parameter optimization on HF channels

Abstract

In this work, we propose an algorithm which maximizes the bit rate of a given wideband OFDM (Orthogonal Frequency-Division Multiplexing) system operating in the HF (High Frequency) band. The proposed algorithm is built on the work given in the literature for estimating the electron densities in the ionosphere and estimating the propagation path of signals throughout the ionosphere. Algorithm uses the outputs of the ray tracing programs in order to calculate the channel parameters for using to optimize the parameters of the HF communication system. Proposed algorithm helps to determine the capacity of the subchannels, transmitter power, number of subchannels, carrier frequency, subchannel bandwidth and cyclic prefix for the OFDM in order to maximize the bit rate. Carrier frequencies produced by the proposed algorithm are compared with the frequencies suggested by the VOACAP (Voice of America Coverage Analysis Program) program.