OFDMn

OFDMn is a generalized notion used in some academic discussions to denote a family of multicarrier modulation schemes that extend orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (OFDM) by introducing a parameter n. In this sense, n is a design degree of freedom that can influence the structure of the subcarrier lattice, symbol duration, or the organization of subcarriers within blocks. Because the literature uses different interpretations of n, there is no single standardized definition for OFDMn.

Conceptually, OFDMn shares the core processing chain of OFDM: data symbols are mapped, allocated to subcarriers, transformed by an FFT/IFFT, and transmitted with a cyclic prefix to mitigate inter-symbol interference. Like OFDM, OFDMn aims to provide robust performance in frequency-selective channels and to enable efficient spectral utilization through parallel transmission. The parameter n can be used to tailor the scheme to specific channel conditions or hardware constraints.

The role of n varies by implementation. It may determine subcarrier spacing, block structure, or the dimensioning of multi-dimensional or multi-user configurations. Adjusting n offers potential trade-offs between latency, data rate, and flexibility, but can also impact computational complexity, peak-to-average power ratio, and the design of pilots and channel estimation methods.

Applications of OFDMn have appeared primarily in research contexts, where the framework is used to explore generalized multicarrier architectures, their theoretical performance, or compatibility with future wireless paradigms. It is not a standardized option in current commercial systems, and practical adoption depends on source-specific definitions and design choices.