Minimax equalizers for digital communication

Minimax equalizers are a class of digital filters whose purpose is to improve the time-domain response of a linear system or communication channel. They are designed in the time domain using a procedure known as minimax deconvolution. This is accomplished numerically using the second algorithm of Remez for continuous-time systems and an ascent algorithm for discrete-time systems. The unique advantages of the design procedure are uniform control and minimization of time-domain equalization errors. In digital communications minimax equalizers can be used to compensate for dispersive and dissipative effects of transmission media by pulse slimming and side lobe reduction in the time domain. This, in turn, can increase maximum data rate or transmission range and minimize inter-symbol interference. Several examples are given which illustrate the design and performance of minimax equalizers in the context of engineering applications.