Channel coded complex field network coding with OFDM in wireless networks

Orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) is the most promising approach to combat the frequency selective fading nature of wide-band wireless channels. On the other hand, complex field network coding (CFNC) scheme offers the advantages of better spectral efficiency and full diversity when utilized in multiuser cooperative communication systems. The efficiency of CFNC scheme in relay based multiuser cooperative networks can be further enhanced with the incorporation of error control codes. These considerations motivate the utilization of OFDM and CFNC in cooperative wireless networks combined with error control codes for a frequency selective fading scenario. In this paper, we make a detailed analysis of such a setup while using different relaying strategies such as amplify and forward (AAF) and decode and forward (DAF) to evaluate the system performance. We also consider relay selection technique with both AAF and DAF schemes. Simulation results show that the channel coded CFNC with OFDM significantly improves the error performance in frequency selective faded cooperative communications environment.