SPREAD-SPECTRUM MULTIPLE-ACCESS PERFORMANCE OF ORTHOGONAL CODES - IMPULSIVE NOISE

A direct-sequence, spread-spectrum, multiple-access (SSMA) communication system that assigns a set of M-orthogonal sequences to each user is analyzed. An accurate model is incorporated for the impulsive noise that characterizes the LF and MF bands, so that the SSMA receiver operates in a combination of multiple-access interference and impulsive (atmospheric) noise. The performance of a linear receiver operating in such an environment is analyzed, and probability-of-error curves are presented. The presence of impulsive noise motivates the derivation and analysis of a nonlinear receiver that uses a variable-gain stage to suppress noise impulses. This receiver is effectively optimum when the signal amplitudes are below a certain bound and when the noise and interference samples are independent, or nearly so. However, the gain stage of this nearly optimum receiver depends on the noise model parameters including the various user delays. Consequently, a nonparametric receiver that incorporates a simple clipper is also analyzed. The asymptotic relative efficiency of both receivers is determined.