On higher order statistics of the Nakagami-m distribution

This paper proposes a fading model that leads to a formal, but simple metho d to obtain the exact formula of the Nakagami-m distribution for m = n/2, w ith n a nonzero integer number. Based on such a model, the joint distributi on of the envelope and its time derivative are accomplished, and exact form ulas for the level crossing rate (closed-form formula) and for the average fade duration are derived. Simulation curves and exact formulas are checked against each other and a very good agreement between them is attained. Alt hough derived for discrete values of m (m being an integer multiple of 1/2) , there are no mathematical constraints for these expressions to be used fo r any real value of m greater than or equal to 1/2.