Tailored spreading symbols in “Strobe Correlators” using “W2-pulses”

A “Strobe Correlator” is a correlation-based multipath mitigation technique that utilizes tailored reference waveform to shape the discriminator function for tracking Global Navigation Satellite System (e.g. Global Positioning System) signals. Multipath performance of these techniques for Binary Phase Shift Keying (BPSK) signals has been discussed for decades but for some, their noise performance may not be easily evaluated analytically. In this paper, a theoretical framework is provided for noise evaluation of “Strobe Correlators” using complex strobes for both BPSK and sine-phased Binary Offset Carrier (e.g. BOC(1,1)) signals. Mathematical expressions of the tailored spreading symbols as key factors are derived and used for theoretical code tracking variance analysis of various correlation techniques including the “Gating Function” using a complex strobe-pulse liked waveform (i.e. “W2-pulses”). Empirical results for the sine-phased BOC(1,1) signal are given as verification. Analytical results reveal that the techniques using a W2-pulse suffer from higher code tracking variance than others, due to increased sensitivity to noise. The sensitivity to pre-correlation bandwidth is found to relate to the relative placement of the strobe pulses.

► Theoretical framework is provided for code tracking variance analysis of “Strobe Correlators”.
► Mathematical expressions of “W2-pulse” waveforms are given using BOC-Gated-PRN discriminator.
► Simulations are carried where arbitrary pre-correlation bandwidth and gate width are considered.
► Techniques using a W2-pulse suffer from higher code tracking variances due to sensitivity to noise.
► Sensitivity to effect of pre-correlation bandwidth is depending on the strobe pulses alignment.