On the performance of Kronecker MIMO channel models: A semi-definite relaxation approach

The Kronecker model is a popular structure in the design and analysis of multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) systems. Despite being criticized for unrealistic results in some cases, it mathematically facilitates the analysis of MIMO transmission schemes. In our earlier work [1], we proposed algorithms in order to determine a MIMO channel covariance matrix which is as far as possible from the Kronecker model based on semi-definite relaxation approach. In this paper, we develop this approach for different case studies. In particular, we verify our proposed algorithms for different size of antennas. Further, as a case study for the relevance of the Kronecker assumption, numerical analysis will be carried out to evaluate the performance of optimal pilot design for Kronecker and non-Kronecker MIMO channels.