A low SINR synchronization system for direct-sequence spread-spectrum communications: radio prototype, verification testbed and experimental results

Abstract

Ability to receive signals at low signal to interference and noise ratio (SINR) improves the spatial range and reliability of wireless networks. However, it is difficult to design a communication system that operates correctly in this type of environment. Our system uses a high spreading gain in the direct-sequence spread-spectrum (DSSS) modulation to combat the problems associated with low SINR. Undoubtedly, synchronization is a severe bottleneck for low SINR reception in DSSS.In this paper, we present a prototype hardware implementation of a DSSS synchronization system, which was proposed in [1], a testbed, and experimental results. The synchronization system is implemented on a reconfigurable radio prototyping platform and verified on a hardware testbed. Controlled experiments are performed in the laboratory to calibrate its performance. Finally, over-the-air experiments are conducted at two outdoor test sites and the results are presented.