Reconstruction of convolutional encoders over GF(q)

Abstract

Assuming we only have the coded sequence produced by a convolutional encoder at one’s disposal, is it possible to recover all the parameters defining this encoder? The implementation of such complete reconstruction for convolutional codes of any rate is presented in this paper, for both noiseless and noisy communications. Each time, several different solutions, i.e. alleged reconstructed encoders, axe obtained, contrary to the awaited unicity. Their study yields a new characterization of convolutional codes along with some properties.