Reconfigurable Encoder and Decoder for High-Data-Rate Satellite Communications

ABSTRACT: Several MILSATCOM systems allow the use of turbo codes to improve communications performance. These systems were standardized before the widespread use of Low Density Parity Check (LDPC) codes. While turbo and LDPC codes have many similarities, ORB Analytics believes that future MILSATCOM systems should also support LDPC codes. Relative to turbo codes, LDPC codes offer greatly reduced implementation complexity, operation at higher data rates, and much greater flexibility in terms of code rate, length, and error correction performance. In addition, structured LDPC codes can be completely specified with a small set of parameters, allow rapid reprogramming. ORB Analytics proposes the Phase I development of an FPGA encoder and decoder design that can be dynamically configured to support legacy turbo code designs or a wide range of structured LDPC codes. Innovations include generalized direct encoding methods and a reconfigurable switch matrix between decoder check and variable nodes that are designed to support a programmable number of inputs, outputs, and algorithms. BENEFIT: Reconfigurable LDPC code encoders and decoders promise large communications performance and capacity gains for MILSATCOM systems. NASA, iNET, and wireless standards including 802.11n, WiMAX, and DVB-S2 all include LDPC code options, so the proposed research and development has a wide range of applications and potential markets.