Decoder-assisted frame synchronization for packet transmission

This paper proposes a novel frame synchronization methodology for packets with convolutionally encoded data. Rather than by placing sync bits in a separate header, the sync bits are placed in a midamble and encoded as part of the data sequence, using the error correction encoder to resolve time ambiguities. The scheme is based on the principle that an error in trellis termination may result in decoding a wrong information bit sequence, while the starting portion of the sequence can be decoded as error free. This frame synchronization technique is extended to the synchronization of turbo-coded systems using a list-based approach, where the first synchronizer provides a list of potential packet starting positions, and the following synchronizer makes the final decision. The performance improvement over conventional synchronization techniques is quantified via simulation.