BER estimation for wireless links using BPSK/QPSK modulation

Abstract

This paper introduces a method that computes an estimation of the bit error rate (BER) based on the RAKE receiver soft output only. For this method no knowledge is needed about the channel characteristics nor the precise external conditions. Simulations show that the mean error of the estimation is below 2%, with only a small variance. Also an estimation of the BER for a different spreading factor or a different number of RAKE finger can be made. Implementation issues for a practical use of the method are discussed