An application of SAGE algorithm for UWB propagation channel estimation

In this paper, a new ultra wideband (UWB) channel estimation algorithm, UWB-SAGE (space alternating generalized expectation maximization) is proposed. In the algorithm, a novel UWB signal model which is an extension of the conventional wideband signal model is employed in order to estimate the UWB channel with SAGE algorithm. The algorithm divides the measured data into individual ray paths and estimates the directions of arrival, propagation time, and the variation of the amplitude and phase during the propagation for each signal. The measurement campaign in indoor environment was conducted and it was shown that the algorithm could correctly extract the inherent propagation phenomena of the channel. The estimation result can be very useful for the design and analysis of UWB communication system, especially for the evaluation of waveform distortion and multipath effect.