The History of Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing

Abstract

This paper depicts the development of Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing from a historical perspective. A summary of major research milestones are noted that contributed to modern-day OFDM. These contributions include the use of discrete Fourier transforms replacing the analog implementation and addition of cyclic extensions to ensure orthogonality among the sub-channels. Also, channel equalization algorithms to suppress inter-symbol interference and inter-carrier interference, channel estimation through the insertion of pilot tones among data blocks, peak-to-average power ratio reduction, and synchronization techniques are discussed.