The quest for higher data rates has led to the evolution of wireless cellular systems from narrowband 2G GSM, IS-95 systems to current-generation wideband code-division multiple access (W-CDMA)-based 3G and 3.5G systems that can support peak data rates up to 10 Mbps. Orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM)-based broadband wireless systems have similarly evolved and can achieve transmission speeds in excess of 100 Mbps. The improvement in data rates has been possible primarily due to the use of higher order modulation techniques and variable rate channel coding. The move to multi-carrier based CDMA and OFDM systems requires the use of advanced signal techniques such as crest factor reduction (CFR) and digital predistortion (DPD). Complex spatial signal processing schemes such as beamforming and multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) antenna techniques are also proven technologies to increase the data rates at the expense of additional hardware.
Altera® FPGAs—with their high-performance features, wide array of intellectual property (IP) cores, and easy-to-use development tools—offer the ideal combination of processing power and flexibility required to implement such computationally intensive digital signal processing (DSP) techniques. High-density Stratix® series FPGAs provide integrated platforms to implement many of these functions on a single device, while providing a low-cost HardCopy® ASIC alternative for high-volume production.
Figure 1. Advanced Wireless Solutions from Altera
Note:
- Multiple-input multiple-output.
To help minimize design cycles and decrease development costs and risks, Altera provides reference designs and solutions to efficiently implement complex signal processing techniques.
Design services and technical expertise are also provided through Altera Consultants Alliance Program (ACAP®) and Certified Design Center (CDC) partners.
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