Encoding apparatus and encoding method for multidimensionally coding and encoding method and decoding apparatus for iterative decoding of multidimensionally coded information

Decoding method for iterative decoding of multidimensionally coded information, comprising the steps of:

• performing at least one decoding iteration on multidimensionally coded information;
• checking the decoded information after each decoding iteration for errors;
• performing error detection and correction on said decoded information;
• and
• causing a further decoding iteration if (i) a checking result indicates that an error exists in the decoded information and (ii) the number of iterations is less than a predetermined number and for causing error correction to be performed on the decoded information if (i) a checking result indicates that an error exists in said decoded information and (ii) the number of iterations is equal to the predetermined number.

Encoding apparatus, comprising

• means for generating a checksum for incoming data,
• means for constructing frames on the basis of said incoming data and said generated checksum, and
• means for multidimensionally coding said frames,
• whereby, during a decoding operation, said checksum is used for error detection, and a ratio of checksum bits to incoming data bits is approximately 1.5% or less.

Encoding method comprising the steps of

• generating a checksum for incoming data,
• constructing frames on the basis of said incoming data and said generated checksum, and
• multidimensionally coding said frames,
• whereby, during a decoding operation, said checksum is used for error detection, and a ratio of checksum bits to incoming data bits is approximately 1.5% or less.