Decision feedback equalizer design for insensitivity to decision delay

In this paper, we use an alternative approach to derive the minimum mean-square error decision feedback equalizer. This derivation yields insight which allows the equalizer to be designed so that its SINR performance is relatively insensitive to variations in the decision delay (also known as the cursor). The design, while generally applicable to the DFE, is illustrated using 8-level vestigial sideband modulation as used in the ATSC digital television standard. We simulate several channels and show that the SINR varies little across a relatively wide band of decision delays.