Relay Selection Algorithm with Simplified Precoding for MIMO Multiple Relay Channels

Considering an Amplify-and-Forward (AF) cooperative network with the help of multiple relay nodes, a relay selection algorithm with simplified precoder is proposed for the two-hop relay channels. This new algorithm based on the approximate received signal-noise rate (SNR), which chooses only one relay with the maximal received SNR gain to assist in transmission, can significantly reduce the required system consumption, achieve excellent bit-error-rate (BER) and average throughput, and maintain full diversity order. Simulation results demonstrate that the performance of the proposed scheme with a low complexity approaches to the optimal iteration method. And for practical situation with distance attenuation factor, the performance gain of our scheme is also in evident.