We propose a discrete-time model for phase noise processes occurring in phase locked loop (PLL) based oscillators. By using linear time-invariant analysis in the phase domain, we arrive at a parallel auto-regressive moving-average phase noise model that captures the major noise sources and corresponding loop transfer functions of the PLL circuitry. The acquired model allows us to derive analytically the distribution of the inter-carrier interference (ICI) power in the receiver, shown to be a sum of correlated gamma random variables with a model-specific covariance matrix. Finally, we utilize the derived ICI distribution and proceed to analyze the effects of phase noise and multipath fading on the performance of OFDM radio links. For example, we evaluate the rate loss without ICI compensation or knowledge at the receiver, and illustrate the trade-off introduced by phase noise between the OFDM symbol length and the overhead caused by the cyclic prefix. Throughout the paper, simulations confirm the accuracy of the analytical expressions.

This article addresses the signal distortion caused by receiver phase noise (PN) on OFDM waveforms in direct-conversion radio receivers. A closed-form solution for the observed signal-to-interference-plus-noise ratio (SINR) is derived, describing the level of intercarrier interference (ICI) stemming from PN. Compared to existing literature, the analysis is valid for arbitrary oscillator spectral shape, the only assumption being that reasonably small phase noise values are observed. The analysis results can be used to derive practical circuit-level oscillator design criteria in terms of the allowable PN spectral density. The applicability and validity of the derived analysis are verified with extensive computer simulations.