Spatial Index Modulation in Fading Channels: A Fair Comparison Approach

Spatial modulation (SM) is a promising solution for simplifying multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) capabilities in wireless communication systems. In this study, we compare SM with Vertical Bell Laboratories Layered Space-Time (V-BLAST) systems in Rayleigh and Rician fading channels. Using our proposed fair comparison methodology, the performance of both systems is explored in various system configurations in fading channels. The study reveals that SM has distinct advantages in low-rate scenarios due to its unique antenna index modulation, while V-BLAST performs better in higher transmission rates and rich scattering environments. Furthermore, the performance of SM improves with increasing the number of receive antennas, while V-BLAST performance is influenced by the transmit-to-receive antenna ratio. These findings provide valuable insights into the capabilities and limitations of each technique, offering a more informed assessment of the capabilities of SM.