Blind detection of equalization errors in communication systems

In adaptive channel equalization, transmitted symbol estimates at the equalizer output may be in error because of excessive channel noise, convergence of the equalizer to a "closed-eye" local minimum, or error propagation if the equalizer has a decision feedback structure. This paper is concerned with the detection of equalization errors (i.e., errors in transmitted symbol estimates) in a blindfolded manner whereby no direct access to the channel input is required. The detection problem is cast into a binary hypothesis testing framework. Assuming a linear communication channel that is time-invariant during the test interval, a relationship between the presence of equalization errors and time variations in the underlying linear model taking the transmitted symbol estimates to the equalizer input is established. Based on this relationship, a uniformly most powerful test is constructed to detect the presence of equalization errors in finite-length observations. Finite sample size and asymptotic detection performance of the test is studied. A method for estimating the equalization delay without direct access to the channel input is developed. The effectiveness of the test is illustrated by way of computer simulations.