Localization and array shape estimation using software defined radio array testbed

The emergence of software defined radio (SDR) aims to increase flexibility as well as reduce cost, size, weight and power (SWAP) inherent in traditional hardware radios. This paper is concerned with addressing issues associated with the formation of an array system from multiple SDR boards where each has an independent local oscillators (LO) in a multi-antenna system using representative examples such as localization and array shape estimation. In particular, practical experimental results are initially presented for estimating the unknown location of a single source using an SDR array of known array geometry. Furthermore, in the case that the SDR array geometry is unknown, a novel array shape estimation algorithm is proposed. The proposed algorithm estimates the antenna locations without requiring any external sources. This is achieved by allowing the array elements operate as transceivers.