Analysis of a two-branch maximal ratio and selection diversity system with unequal SNRs and correlated inputs for a Rayleigh fading channel

An analytical expression for the probability density function of the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) at the output of a two-branch maximal ratio and selection diversity system is given. The two branches are assumed to be Rayleigh fading, correlated, as well as of unequal average SNRs. Measurements of the cumulative distribution functions after selection and maximal ratio combining were made in Rayleigh fading channels and compared with the analytical results. Also presented are the exact analytical average probabilities of symbol error for coherent binary phase-shift keying and coherent quaternary phase-shift keying before and after two-branch maximal ratio combining for a slow and flat fading correlated Rayleigh channel.