Development of a Digital Signal Processor (DSP) Based Chaotic Communication System With Emphasis on Military Applications

Chaotic systems are aperiodic, deterministic, and sensitive to slight variations in initial condition. The latter property presents the problem that behavior of the system cannot be predicted for a significant period of time, even though for the next instant, it is completely predictable. The frequency domain and time domain properties of chaotic systems have generated interest in the military communications field. This paper explores the advantages of a communication system based on a chaotic carrier for military purposes. Digital signal processing techniques are used to implement the system, perform frequency domain analysis, and generate system performance curves. A series of computer simulations were used to enhance system performance. A digital transmitter was developed that is difficult to localize and detect by exploiting some of the natural properties of chaotic systems. A new dual synchronizing receiver scheme is demonstrated that works by storing samples over an entire bit period prior to estimation. Results show significantly better bit error probability performance in comparison to previously published methods. Research concentrated on developing a system that works effectively without a conspicuous signature in the frequency domain. Such a system should be extremely useful for cover wireless communications.