Blind initialization of decision feedback equalizer using an antenna array

Abstract

A decision feedback equalizer and method that implements blind initialization using an antenna array. The equalizer comprises the antenna array which includes two or more antenna elements that form input paths. Two or more feedforward finite impulse response (FIR) filters are respectively coupled to the two or more antenna elements. An attenuator and a switch are coupled in parallel to outputs of all but one feedforward FIR filter. An adder combines the signals output by the feedforward FIR filters. A decision device is coupled to the output of the adder. A decision feedback FIR filter is coupled to the output of the decision device whose output is fed back to the adder and combined with other signals summed thereby. A switch is coupled between the decision device and the decision feedback FIR filter. The equalizer is initialized using a blind adaptation algorithm. The equalizer transitions to normal operation by allowing the feedback and feedforward FIR filters to adapt as inputs from all but one antenna element is attenuated to zero. The equalizer normally operates by using inputs from only one antenna element which is processed by the decision device, the decision feedback FIR filter, and the adder.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.