Efficient Multi-Carrier Communication Systems: A Performance Evaluation of Parallel and Sequential Data Processing Models

Orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) is a popular method for multi-carrier transmission today. Nonetheless, one disadvantage of OFDM is its large peak-to-average power ratio (PAPR) which decreases the efficiency of power amplifiers. Orthogonal Wavelet Division Multiplexing (OWDM) offers an alternative to Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM). While OFDM utilizes the Inverse Fast Fourier Transform (IFFT), OWDM employs the Inverse Discrete Wavelet Transform (IDWT). Previous studies have shown that the Bit Error Rate (BER) for both OWDM and OFDM is nearly identical; however, OWDM features a lower Peak Average Power Ratio (PAPR) compared to OFDM. This research evaluates different wavelets' performance in implementing OWDM and designs two OWDM system models using hardware description language for FPGA implementation. The first design accomplishes data processing parallelly, while the second design processes data sequentially. The first design processes faster than the second one but takes up more resources. Specifically, the former algorithm uses 393 pins with 39% utilization of FPGA resources while the latter algorithm utilizes 73 pins with only 6% use of FPGA resources. Designers are allowed to opt between these proposed models depending on system requirements and available resources. FPGAs provide numerous advantages, including parallel processing power and substantial computational capabilities. The modelling and simulation were performed on the VCU118-XCVU9P-L2FLGA2104E FPGA board.