Optimum frame synchronization for orthogonal FSK in flat fading channels and one burst application

We derive a maximum likelihood (ML) rule for one-shot frame synchronization of a random data burst with non-coherent orthogonal M-FSK signaling in a flat fading or AWGN channel. It uses a known frame synchronization pattern and, optionally, channel state information at the receiver. High SNR approximations are developed that are well suited for a low-cost implementation. A burst synchronizer structure is proposed with an ML frame synchronizer as the last processing stage. Simulations reveal the performance gain of the ML rules over conventional correlation rules for a 2-CPFSK modulated separate signaling channel in an OFDM FTDMA broadband cellular system.