Synchronization and cell search for 3GPP LTE

In this paper the authors consider cell search, time and frequency synchronization for the 3GPP Long Term Evolution (LTE) downlink. They compare synchronization algorithms like the cyclic prefix-based method (also propose a modified version), cross- and reverse correlation in terms of their performance, complexity and cell search feasibility. After studying these algorithms separately, the authors consider fine frequency adjustment and evaluate the overall synchronization process. It is observed that the residual frequency offset does not depend on the initial coarse estimate. Finally the authors propose a practical solution for the LTE synchronization and cell search