Iterative channel estimation for EGPRS

The Enhanced Data GSM Evolution (EDGE) standard will increase the data rates in a GSM system significantly. An 8 PSK modulation scheme is proposed which is more sensitive to impairments in the transmission medium than GMSK modulation in the GSM system. Channel estimation plays a crucial part on the receiving end to overcome those impairments. We investigate different iterative channel estimation (ICE) techniques. In order to reduce complexity sub-optimum algorithms are addressed. Comparisons with the GSM system show that not all algorithms are suitable for the EDGE system. Simulation results show that with ICE the BLER at 10% in EGPRS can be improved by almost 2 dB in a hilly terrain environment.