In adaptive channel equalization, transmitted symbol estimates at the equalizer output may be in error because of excessive channel noise, convergence of the equalizer to a "closed-eye" local minimum, or error propagation if the equalizer has a decision feedback structure. This paper is concerned with the detection of equalization errors (i.e., errors in transmitted symbol estimates) in a blindfolded manner whereby no direct access to the channel input is required. The detection problem is cast into a binary hypothesis testing framework. Assuming a linear communication channel that is time-invariant during the test interval, a relationship between the presence of equalization errors and time variations in the underlying linear model taking the transmitted symbol estimates to the equalizer input is established. Based on this relationship, a uniformly most powerful test is constructed to detect the presence of equalization errors in finite-length observations. Finite sample size and asymptotic detection performance of the test is studied. A method for estimating the equalization delay without direct access to the channel input is developed. The effectiveness of the test is illustrated by way of computer simulations.
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