Low latency sequential decoding

Sequential decoding has traditionally been considered for applications where large buffers are permitted, but the speed factor is low. However, there is a need for coding techniques which achieve relatively large gain (on the order of 6 dB) with relatively low latency (a few hundred symbols). While the very name suggests serial operations, sequential decoders have potential for high speed and efficient parallel decoding operations. We consider the desirable algorithmic features for high speed factor operations using the stack and Fano algorithm families as the point of reference.