Abstract
Given binary data transmission encoded using a
Reed-Solomon (RS) code and employing binary sync-words
(markers) for synchronization, we calculate the probability of
finding the sync-word in the codewords of the RS code as PS. We
give analytical expressions for calculating PS, which is applicable
to RS codes. Knowledge of PS can be used to calculate the
probability of finding a sync-word that is used as a marker
in RS encoded data, PT . The probability PT is called the false
acquisition probability in the synchonization of RS encoded data.