Space-time coding using MSK

Abstract

Space-time (ST) codes presented to date are based on non-offset, linear modulation formats. However, the paper demonstrates compelling advantages for ST codes based on MSK, an offset format. ST codes with offset modulation give better performance than QPSK for the same number of states, and the MSK ST decoding computational load is smaller than that of QPSK by a ratio that improves exponentially with the number of antennas. They are easily designed for any number of antennas. In addition, their constant envelope allows transmission with inexpensive Class C amplifiers.