An orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) transmitter method, consistent
with certain embodiments of the present invention arranges OFDM data symbols representing
data bits for transmission in a packet. A prescribed pattern of OFDM data symbols
are removed (212) and replaced (216) with pilot symbols. The packet
is then transmitted (220) to an OFDM receiver that receives the packet (224)
and determines a channel correction factor from the pilot pattern. The receiver
then estimates a plurality of channel correction factors, one for each of the plurality
of OFDM symbols representing data (228) and uses these correction factors
to correct the OFDM symbols representing data (232). Arbitrary data are
then inserted in place of the pilot symbols (236). The OFDM symbols representing
data along with the arbitrary data are then decoded using an error correction decoder
that corrects the errors induced by substitution of the pilot symbols for data
symbols (240).
