Autocorrelation based spectrum sensing architecture on FPGA with dynamic offset compensation

In this paper, FPGA implementation of an autocorrelation based spectrum detector which is capable of overcoming DC offset and frequency offset problems is presented. There exist different non-idealities which deteriorate the performance of spectrum sensing algorithms developed for cognitive radio applications. Here, we analyze the effect of DC offset, frequency offset and their combined presence on spectrum sensing performance. The compensation factors which are incorporated make the algorithm tolerant against the two offsets. Algorithmic level verification has been done on Matlab. Hardware co-simulation has been done and the system has been tested with LTE 20 MHz signals. The algorithm has been implemented on Xilinx Virtex 5 board (XC5VLX110T) and the hardware results have been validated.