Improved Coarse Timing Estimation in OFDM Systems Using High-Order Statistics

In this paper, we investigate new methods for preamble-aided coarse timing estimation in orthogonal frequency division multiplexing systems. Two novel timing metrics using high-order statistics-based correlation and differential normalization functions are first proposed. The performance of the new timing metrics is then evaluated using different criteria, including class separability, robustness to the carrier frequency offset, and computational complexity. It is shown that the new timing metrics can considerably increase the class separability due to their more distinct values at correct and wrong timing instants, and thus give a significantly better detection performance as compared with the existing timing metrics. Furthermore, a new method for coarse estimation of the start of the frame is proposed, which remarkably reduces the probability of intersymbol interference (ISI). The improved performances of the new schemes in multipath fading channels are shown by the probabilities of false alarm, missed detection, and ISI obtained through computer simulations.