Bit Error Rate Reduction Using μ-Law Companding Transform for Peak-to-Average Power Ratio Mitigation

This article explores a method called "μ-law companding transform" designed to reduce bit error rate by mitigating peak-to-average power ratio. The implementation involves signal compression using logarithmic μ-law transformation before transmission and expansion at the receiver end. The MATLAB simulation code demonstrates the complete process including signal generation, μ-law companding (using the compand function with mu parameter), PAPR calculation, and BER performance evaluation through AWGN channel modeling. The algorithm's core functionality utilizes nonlinear quantization where compressed signals reduce high-power peaks while maintaining low-power components, thereby improving overall system robustness. Key MATLAB functions implemented include compand() for signal transformation, papr() for peak-to-average ratio calculation, and berawgn() for error rate analysis. We will examine the method's theoretical principles, provide executable MATLAB source code, and discuss its advantages (e.g., improved power amplifier efficiency), limitations (potential quantization noise), and potential applications in wireless communication systems. This resource offers valuable insights and practical implementation guidance for digital communication engineers.