Advances in Convolutional Codes and the Viterbi Algorithm for Error Correction in Digital Communication System

The application of error correction codes (ECCs) is essential to achieve reliable data transfer over a noisy communications channel. Convolutional codes along with Viterbi decoding algorithm have played a significant role in the area of strong error correction in many communications systems. Herein, a detailed survey on the past, design, and applications of convolutional codes and Viterbi algorithm focusing on the current communication systems like 5G, IoT, and space networks. New-age technologies were especially highlighted because innovations resulted from integrating artificial intelligence and hardware acceleration. The article concludes with a number of observations on the main problems and avenues for future research into the application of these technologies in new-generation communication system. This research also examines the incorporation of novel technol ogies like machine learning and hardware acceleration with traditional error correction systems.