Construction of M-QAM STCC Based on QPSK STCC

Abstract

Space-time convolutional code (STCC) is a technique that combines transmit diversity and coding to improve reliability in wireless fading channels. In this paper, we demonstrate a technique to design MQAM STCCs with high spectral efficiencies utilizing QPSK STCC as component code. The approach is based on a unique construction of M-QAM signal from several QPSK signals. The upper bound on the pairwise block error probability of the new scheme is derived. Simulation result demonstrates that the new technique outperforms existing M-QAM STCC design for M = 16