Turbo Encoder Basics: Convolutional Turbo Codes Explained
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This page covers Convolutional Turbo Code (CTC) encoder basics with a rate 1/3 example, a Forward Error Correction (FEC) technique. Turbo code is a popular FEC technique used in next-generation wireless communication systems such as Mobile WiMAX and LTE.
Let’s explore the CTC technique. The figure below depicts a rate 1/3 CTC encoder used in Mobile WiMAX (IEEE 802.16e) OFDMA physical layer.
As shown in Figure 1, the CTC encoder is placed between the randomizer and the puncturing/interleaving stages. The CTC encoder itself is composed of a CTC interleaver and a constituent encoder, as depicted in Figure 2.
The encoding process involves three main steps:
Step 1: Input bits A and B are passed directly to the output.
Step 2: Input bits A and B are passed through a Constituent encoder, which produces outputs Y1 and W1. The Constituent encoder is explained in more detail below.
Step 3: Input bits A and B are passed through a CTC Interleaver and then through another Constituent encoder, producing outputs Y2 and W2.
The Constituent encoder is composed of three shift registers: S1, S2, and S3. All three step outputs mentioned above are self-explanatory and illustrated in Figure 3 (which, unfortunately, is not provided in the original text).
Constituent Encoder details
The original article mentioned that the Constituent Encoder details are present in figure 3. Since, figure 3 is unavailable, I will leave it at this.