A class of generalized decision- feedback equalizers

An upper bound and a lower bound to the probability of error for data transmission systems using a decision-feedback equalizer, with error propagation effects taken into account, are presented. Numerical examples show that they are tight bounds.We introduce the concept of a generalized decision-feedback equalizer suggested by the form of the derived bounds. A subclass is studied and optimized numerically with the aid of the derived error probability bounds. The solution represents the best compromise achievable by that class between the output noise power and the output intersymbol interference due to error propagation. A numerical example is carried out in detail to illustrate the concept.