This paper investigates the application of fast-convolution (FC) filtering
schemes for flexible and effective waveform generation and processing in the
fifth generation (5G) systems. FC-based filtering is presented as a generic
multimode waveform processing engine while, following the progress of 5G new
radio standardization in the Third-Generation Partnership Project, the main
focus is on efficient generation and processing of subband-filtered cyclic
prefix orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (CP-OFDM) signals. First, a
matrix model for analyzing FC filter processing responses is presented and used
for designing optimized multiplexing of filtered groups of CP-OFDM physical
resource blocks (PRBs) in a spectrally well-localized manner, i.e., with narrow
guardbands. Subband filtering is able to suppress interference leakage between
adjacent subbands, thus supporting independent waveform parametrization and
different numerologies for different groups of PRBs, as well as asynchronous
multiuser operation in uplink. These are central ingredients in the 5G waveform
developments, particularly at sub-6-GHz bands. The FC filter optimization
criterion is passband error vector magnitude minimization subject to a given
subband band-limitation constraint. Optimized designs with different guardband
widths, PRB group sizes, and essential design parameters are compared in terms
of interference levels and implementation complexity. Finally, extensive coded
5G radio link simulation results are presented to compare the proposed approach
with other subband-filtered CP-OFDM schemes and time-domain windowing methods,
considering cases with different numerologies or asynchronous transmissions in
adjacent subbands. Also the feasibility of using independent transmitter and
receiver processing for CP-OFDM spectrum control is demonstrated
