Performance analysis of LTE downlink under Symbol Timing Offset

In this paper, we evaluate the performance of a standardized OFDM system, namely Long Term Evolution (LTE) downlink, with imperfect symbol timing. A closed form expression of the post-equalization Signal to Interference and Noise Ratio (SINR) is derived and compared with results obtained from a standard compliant simulator. Also, we analyzed the channel estimation performance when Symbol Timing Offset (STO) occurs. This work reveals the impact of imperfect synchronization on the link performance. It also allows an accurate and realistic modeling of the physical layer behavior, which can be applied to reproduce results from time-consuming link level simulations.