On the discrete cosine transform and OFDM systems

A method for using the discrete cosine transform (DCT) as an alternative to the discrete Fourier transform (DFT) for orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) wireless transmission methods is presented. These transforms satisfy the cyclic convolution properties of the DFT when used with a symmetric extension. Analysis of intersymbol and intercarrier interference in OFDM systems reveals that under certain channel conditions, throughput is enhanced when using the DCT rather than the DFT.