Blind MIMO channel estimation using space time block code

Channel estimation is one of the key issues in space-time systems design. In this paper we propose a blind estimation algorithm solely based on exploiting the code construction of the space-time block code. Subspace decomposition is applied to the channel output and we show that if the signal subspace is uniquely decided by the channel, then the channel parameter can be uniquely estimated up a scalar constant. The proposed algorithm is derived based on a general form of space-time block code and therefore may be applicable for any block code. Some specific codes are evaluated using computer simulations.