A Markov chain analysis of the sequential decoding metric (Corresp.)

Using Massey's Markov chain model of the correct path metric, closed-form expressions are derived for the average separation between nonsearch nodes for the single path and the multiple path sequential decoder. An exact expression for the cumulative distribution of the correct path metric dips is also derived. All expressions are given in matrix form in terms of the correct path branch metric values and their probability assignments.