Space-Time Block Coding (STBC) Multiple-Input Multiple-Output System

In the following content, we will explain how to develop a MATLAB simulation program for Space-Time Block Coding (STBC) Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (MIMO) systems. This program offers exceptional convenience by allowing users to simulate m-transmitter n-receiver configurations through a simple graphical user interface (GUI). First, we need to understand the fundamental principles and application scenarios of STBC technology. STBC is an encoding technique designed for multi-antenna communication systems that enhances wireless transmission reliability and efficiency without increasing transmit power or bandwidth requirements. In STBC systems, transmitted signals are encoded across multiple time slots and antenna combinations, with the receiver employing decoding algorithms to reconstruct the original data. Our MATLAB implementation includes comprehensive simulation capabilities where users can adjust various parameters such as modulation schemes, channel models, and antenna configurations to observe different channel effects and better understand STBC's advantages. The program utilizes MATLAB's App Designer or GUIDE tools to create an intuitive GUI interface with interactive controls for system configuration, performance visualization through BER curves, and real-time parameter modification. Key functions include stbc_encoder() for signal encoding across antennas, channel_model() for simulating fading effects, and stbc_decoder() for maximum-likelihood detection at the receiver. This implementation provides both educational value for understanding MIMO principles and practical utility for wireless system design.