A Comparative Performance Analysis of Multiple-Input Multiple-Output using MATLAB with Zero Forcing and Minimum Mean Square Error Equalizers

Problem statement: Multiple-Input Multiple-Output systems (MIMO) were regarded as one of the most promising technologies in field of wireless communication. Generally considered as one of the several forms of smart antenna technology, it offers considerable increase in data throughput and link range without additional bandwidth or transmit power. The general idea involves the use of several antennas at the transmitter and the receiver to improve system performance. One of the approaches employed in combating ISI in MIMO transmission was through the use of equalizers. Approach: In this study a proposed MIMO system was simulated using MATLAB software. The different equalization schemes Zero Forcing (ZF) equalizer and Minimum Mean Square Error (MMSE) which aid in the elimination of Inter Symbol Interference (ISI) thus improving overall performance were compared to analyze the BER of the designed system. Results: From the simulation results, the MMSE equalizer clearly had a better performance over the ZF equalizer in the region of about 3 dB. Conclusion: MIMO transmission with MMSE equalization offers greater performance over ZF equalization. This helps in nullifying the effects of ISI thus improving overall performance. Thorough understanding of these techniques provides a good platform for future research in areas such as MIMO-OFDM.