Maximum likelihood synchronization for OFDM using a pilot symbol: analysis

A performance analysis of algorithms for maximum likelihood estimation of channel parameters for orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing packet detection and synchronization is presented. The detection and synchronization algorithms, which are based on the use of a pilot symbol, are described in Coulson (2001). The performance analyses concentrate on operation in additive white Gaussian noise channels, and the accuracy of these analyses are demonstrated using experimental and simulation data. Methods to extend these analyses to frequency flat multipath fading channels are presented.