Optimum and sub-optimum detection of physics-based ultra-wideband signals in presence of inter-symbol interference

The paper represents a major step toward receiver structures under the framework of the per-path pulse distortion using more realistic channel models. We extend our previous framework to include the important phenomenon of inter-symbol interference (ISI). ISI ultimately limits the maximum achievable data rate. We find that the per-path pulse distortion has impact on this maximum achievable data rate in the presence of ISI. As examples of this discovery, we investigate the optimum receiver structure and two sub-optimum receivers with zero-forcing and minimum mean square error (MMSE) equalizers. We use the high-rise building channel model as the underlying pulse propagation model. This model captures many properties that are not available in the IEEE 802.15.4a model.