Discrete-time Markov models for path delays in multipath channels

We describe a new parameter estimation method for the multipath arrival process in wideband communication channels. Previous efforts have employed the “modified Poisson” or Δ-K model in which path arrivals are modeled as a time-inhomogeneous Markov chain. We improve upon methods used thus far by utilizing maximum-likelihood (ML) estimation of the Markov transition probabilities, or equivalently, the underlying path (bin) occupancy probabilities and clustering coefficients. This model provides a useful statistical description of the rival process for evaluation of multipath-combining receiver structures