Computer controlled hardware simulation of fading channel models

Several fading models, including the general fading model, the Rayleigh fading model, and the simple three-path fading model are simulated to study the effect of fading in radio communication links. These models are implemented in hardware using computer control. The effect of fading is demonstrated using speech as the test signal. For the Rayleigh fading model, it is found that, when the automatic gain control (AGC) of the receiver is off, the received signal fades as in real-life transmission. When the AGC is on, the effect of fading is not noticeable most of the times but the noise level goes up when fading occurs, as expected. When the fading is severe, it is found that AGC cannot totally compensate for the fading; this is also expected. Other models are tested in a similar manner and yield expected results.<>