Hybrid transmission scheme using FBMC and OFDM under multipath fading channels

Abstract

Filter bank multicarrier (FBMC) prevents degradation of transmission efficiency caused by the guard interval (GI). However, the signal-to-interference-plus-noise ratio (SINR) deteriorates owing to inter-symbol interference (ISI) and inter-carrier interference (ICI) in multipath fading channels. On the other hand, orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (OFDM) can mitigate the effects of ISI by inserting a GI, thereby maintaining an excellent performance. However, the transmission efficiency decreases owing to GI. This study leverages the distinctive properties of both FBMC and OFDM and proposes a hybrid approach that can achieve robust transmission efficiency even in the face of a varying delay spread. In particular, we theoretically calculate the transmission efficiency of FBMC and OFDM based on the instantaneous channel response, choose a transmission method that offers superior efficiency, and ensure high transmission efficiency regardless of the wireless channel conditions. Furthermore, we validate the effectiveness of our proposed method through computer simulations and compare its performance with those of the FBMC-only and OFDM-only approaches.