Error Probability for Multipath Fading - The "Slow and Flat" Idealization

Abstract

The ideal slow and flat fading model, consisting of any number of multipaths, is revisited. In this model the assignment of specular and scatter components is arbitrary. The additive disturbance need not be Gaussian noise, certain random distortions in the receiver are permitted, and the digital system and the modems are not restricted. Under these assumptions alternative error probability relations are given between the fading and nonfading signals. Their application to practical cases is straightforward. General performance bounds are also derived which are simple functions of the specular and scatter energy ratio in the multipath signal.