Joint multipath diversity combining and MLSE equalization (RAKE-MLSE receiver) for WCDMA systems

We present an intersymbol interference (ISI) model to the interpath interference (IPI) that occurs in a RAKE receiver when low spreading ratios are used in a DS-CDMA system. Based on the equivalent model, we propose a new RAKE receiver structure that effectively overcomes the IPI problem. The performance of the proposed RAKE-MLSE receiver is evaluated by computer simulation. Results obtained show that significant performance gains over the conventional RAKE receiver can be obtained.