An Improved Rate Matching Method for DVB Systems Through Pilot Bit Insertion

Classically, obtaining different coding rates in turbo codes is achieved through the well known puncturing procedure. However, puncturing is a critical procedure since the way the encoded sequence is punctured influences directly the decoding performance. In this work, we propose to mix the data sequence at the turbo encoder input inside the Digital Video Broadcasting (DVB) standard with some pilot (perfectly known) bits. By using variable pilot insertion rates, we achieve different coding rates with more flexibility. The proposed scheme is able to use a less complex mother code compared to that used in a conventional punctured turbo code. We also analyze the effect of different type of pilot insertion such as random and periodic schemes. Simulation results provided in the context of DVB show that in addition to providing flexible encoder design and reducing the encoder complexity, pilot insertion can improve slightly the performance of turbo decoders, compared to a conventional punctured turbo code.