Distributed space-time block coding with imperfect channel estimation

In this paper, we derive closed-form expressions for the bit error rate (BER) for a distributed space-time block coded system, considering both perfect and imperfect channel estimation. For the special case of single relay, under the assumption of an appropriate power control, we show that the diversity order of two is obtained, achieving the maximum diversity order. Our analysis also demonstrates the existence of an error floor due to channel estimation errors.