Using Channel Output Feedback to Increase Throughput in Hybrid-ARQ

Hybrid automatic repeat request (ARQ) protocols have become common in many packet transmission systems due to their incorporation in various standards. Hybrid-ARQ combines the normal ARQ method with forward error correction (FEC) codes to increase reliability and throughput. In this paper, we look at improving upon this performance using feedback information from the destination, in particular, using a powerful FEC code in conjunction with a proposed linear feedback code for the Rayleigh block fading channels. The new hybrid-ARQ scheme is initially developed for full received packet feedback in a point-to-point link. It is then extended to various multiple-antenna scenarios [e.g., multiple-input single-output (MISO), multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO), etc.] with varying amounts of packet feedback information. Simulations illustrate gains in throughput.