In a convolutional decoder using partial traceback, L−1 data bits of a traceback beginning at a time step T are stored, where L is the traceback length; these L−1 data bits are the data bits corresponding to the L−1 time steps backwards from time step T. The maximum likelihood encoder state for time T is also saved. (The L-th data bit is the desired data bit as in conventional convolutional decoders.) In a subsequent partial traceback preferably beginning at time T+1 that ends at time step T, the maximum likelihood encoder state for time T determined from the partial traceback is compared with the stored encoder state for time T. If they correspond to the same encoder state, the L−1 stored data bits are designated as the last L−1 data bits of the current (partial) traceback.
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