On the accuracy of a first-order Markov model for data transmission on fading channels

Transmission of data blocks on a fading mobile radio channel is considered. The binary process of the success and failure of the data blocks is investigated, and the accuracy of a Markov approximation is studied. It is shown through analysis and simulation that a first-order Markov process is a good approximation. Data-link performance of ARQ protocols is considered as an example of application.