On the evaluation and application of Markov channel models in wireless communications

We parameterize and compare three different classes of discrete channel models (Gilbert (1960), Gilbert-Elliott (1963) and Fritchman (1967)) for Gaussian minimum shift keying, as used in the GSM cellular system, on a Rayleigh fading channel. The generation of the appropriate data for the derivation of the discrete channel models is done by means of a simulation. In the simulation we assume that the fading is slow enough such that the receiver may perform perfect carrier recovery and synchronization. After comparing the three models, one is chosen as representative of the effects encountered on the channel. Lastly, we find analytical expressions for the parameters of the model as a function of the average signal-to-noise ratio by means of a curve fit.