Performance analysis of dual-hop variable gain relay networks over Generalized-K fading channels

In this paper, we develop a new and comprehensive analytical framework for the performance analysis of variable gain dual-hop relay networks over generalized-K fading channels which are typically encountered in composite fading/shadowing environments. We propose a new and generic approach for deriving the closed-form expressions of the ergodic capacity1 of the dual-hop networks with variable gain relays considering a Generalized-K fading and its specific case of Nakagami-m fading. Furthermore, we show that at high average end-to-end signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), the average symbol error probability (ASEP) of the dual-hop variable gain relay network over Generalized-K fading channels can be closely approximated by the sum of the ASEP's of the two same single input single output (SISO) systems. Finally, we also derive a new closed-form expression of the moments of an upper-bound of the end-to-end SNR. Monte-Carlo simulations are also provided in order to validate the analytical framework.