An FPGA Implementation of a Gb/s OFDM Transmitter and Receiver for Fiber Telecommunication Applications

Case ID:
UA16-010
Invention:

University of Arizona researchers have invented a Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) implementation of Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) transmitter (Tx) and receiver (Rx). The design has two variants. One for direct detection OFDM and one for coherent OFDM based on self-coherent reception. 

This technology will allow for easier, cheaper, and faster research method into OFDM transmitters and receivers in the real world. Currently there is no effective way to research OFDM transmitters and receivers. Rather than building the OFDM Tx and Rx, they can be built and studied in real world telecom scenarios. This will save time since the simulated OFDM Tx and Rx can be built much quicker. Instead of building a physical OFDM, a virtual one can be built which is more convenient and cheaper.
 

Background:

Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) is a form of signal waveform or modulation that provides some significant advantages for data links. It is used for many of the latest wide bandwidth and high data rate wireless systems including Wi-Fi and cellular telecommunications. Field-programmable gate array (FPGA) is an integrated circuit designed to be configured by the user. They contain an array of programmable logic block that can be inter-wired in different configurations.
 

Applications:

  • Research of OFDM nodes
  • Direct detection OFDM
  • Coherent OFDM
  • Commercial OFDM IP development


Advantages:

  • Accurate simulation
  • Real-world results
  • Broadens research opportunities
  • Cost effective


Status: issued U.S. Patent #9,906,357

Patent Information:
Contact For More Information:
Richard Weite
Senior Licensing Manager, College of Optical Sciences
The University of Arizona
RichardW@tla.arizona.edu
Lead Inventor(s):
Stanley Johnson
Milorad Cvijetic
Keywords: