Algorithm Partitioning and SoC Design for OFDM Communication Systems Using Multiple Application Specific Processors

In this paper we present an algorithm partitioning and SoC design approach for OFDM communication systems using multiple application specific processors. Solutions that are programmable are desirable for many OFDM applications, in order to improve time to market for emerging standards, as well as to reduce the cost of maintaining product lines like for example in multiple geographic regions. While today's ASIC solutions are commonplace, we describe in this paper how algorithm partitioning allows the creation and use of a set of specialized, embedded programmable digital signal processors that compose a practical system with respect to both silicon area and power consumption. By this approach, we achieve a high degree of programmability at silicon cost and power comparable to ASIC solutions