A statistical channel model for a decode-and-forward based dual hop mixed RF/FSO relay network

In this paper, we have considered a dual branch with dual hop wireless cooperative communication system which comprises direct radio frequency path as well as indirect path with RF links and a free space optics (FSO) link through a Relay node (R) in between source (S) to destination (D). The faded channel for RF link is modelled with Nakagami-m distribution and the FSO link is modelled using double generalized Gamma fading. This proposed communication system uses the intensity modulation and direct detection technique for optical signal transmission and reception purpose, respectively in the FSO link. Further, we have employed selection combining diversity technique at the receiver during the use of both branches. Moreover, we have also derived probability density function and cummulative distribution function of the proposed communication system which is used to compute the performance metrics such as the outage probability and average bit error rate.