Method and encoder for implementing a fully protected multidimensional linear block code

An encoder suitable for receiving as its input a frame of information symbols to be transmitted through a transmission system and for producing as its output information symbols and redundancy symbols for correcting any transmission errors at the receiving end, said encoder including:

• input means for receiving information symbols organised in a frame with a number (k) of columns and a number (h) of rows;
• a first Short Block Coding that receives the information symbols and produces a first sequence of ((n−k)h/2) redundancy symbols,
• the encoder further comprising:
• at least one interleaver that receives the information symbols and produces corresponding interleaved information symbols;
• at least one second Short Block Coding that receives the interleaved information symbols and produces a second sequence of ((n−k)h/2) redundancy symbols;
• a linear combiner that receives the first and at least the second sequence of redundancy symbols and produces a total of ((n−k)h) redundancy symbols;
• and
• an adder that adds the information symbols and the redundancy symbols.