Synchronization and SNR Estimation in M-PSK Wireless Receivers

Coherent M-PSK reception in M-PSK receivers is achieved through use of two main PLLs (Phase Lock Loops): the carrier synchronization PLL (carrier PLL for short) and the symbol timing synchronization PLL (symbol PLL for short). An SNR (Signal-to-Noise Ratio) estimation module is also typically present in the receiver. In this paper we shall present an overview of contemporary coherent M-PSK receiver structures. In particular, we shall treat the following subjects: (1) Phase Detectors for carrier PLLs; (2) Timing Error Detectors for symbol PLLs; (3) Lock detection for carrier and symbol PLLs; and (4) SNR estimators.