How Long to Estimate Sparse MIMO Channels

TL;DR

This paper establishes a fundamental lower bound on the number of measurements needed for accurate sparse MIMO channel estimation, aiding in understanding and benchmarking estimation methods for next-generation wireless systems.

Contribution

It derives a tight asymptotic lower bound on measurements, filling a key knowledge gap in sparse MIMO channel estimation theory.

Findings

Provides a fundamental limit for measurement requirements

Offers a benchmark for evaluating estimation algorithms

Enhances understanding of sparse MIMO channel estimation

Abstract

Large MIMO transceivers are integral components of next-generation wireless networks. However, for such systems to be practical, their channel estimation process needs to be fast and reliable. Although several solutions for fast estimation of sparse channels do exist, there is still a gap in understanding the fundamental limits governing this problem. Specifically, we need to better understand the lower bound on the number of measurements under which accurate channel estimates can be obtained. This work bridges that knowledge gap by deriving a tight asymptotic lower bound on the number of measurements. This not only helps develop a better understanding for the sparse MIMO channel estimation problem, but it also provides a benchmark for evaluating current and future solutions.