Performance verification of MIMO concepts using multi-dimensional channel sounding

The advances in multi-dimensional channel-sounding techniques make it possible to evaluate performances of radio multiple access and signal processing schemes under realistic propagation conditions. This paper focuses on the methodology how recorded impulse response data gathered through multidimensional channel sounding field measurements can be used to evaluate link- and system-level performances of the multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) radio access schemes. The method relies on offline simulations. It can be classified in between the performance evaluation using some predefined channel models and the evaluation in field experiments using a set of prototype hardware. New aspects for the simulation setup are discussed, which are frequently ignored when using simpler model-based evaluations. Example simulations are provided for an iterative (“turbo”) MIMO equalizer concept.