On turbo decoding of nonbinary codes

Symbol-by-symbol maximum a posteriori (MAP) decoding algorithms for nonbinary block and convolutional codes over an extension field GF(p/sup a/) are presented. Equivalent MAP decoding rules employing the dual code are given which are computationally more efficient for high-rate codes. It is shown that these algorithms meet all requirements needed for iterative decoding as the output of the decoder can be split into three independent estimates: soft channel value, a priori term and extrinsic value. The discussed algorithms are then applied to a parallel concatenated coding scheme with nonbinary component codes in conjunction with orthogonal signaling.