Module ENGI47915: Radio and Digital Communications

Department: Engineering

ENGI47915: Radio and Digital Communications

Prerequisites

• <If other modules, please enter module code using 'Right Click, Insert module_code' or enter module title>

Corequisites

• As specified in programme regulations.

Excluded Combination of Modules

• As specified in programme regulations.

Aims

• This module is designed solely for students studying Department of Engineering degree programmes.
• To provide an overview and describe pulse analogue modulation schemes.
• To explain the working principles of digital communication systems.
• To explain the technical aspects of cellular networks.
• To introduce and familiarise students with analytical methods of radio propagation.

Content

• Topic 1: Basic digital modulation schemes.
• Topic 2: Noise sources.
• Topic 3: Coherent and non-coherent detectors and bite error rate.
• Topic 4: Fundamentals of wireless communication systems.
• Topic 5: Propagation mechanisms.
• Topic 6: Large scale path loss models and small scale effects.

Learning Outcomes

• A knowledge of benefits and limitations of pulse analogue modulation techniques.
• An appreciation of the importance of digital communication systems.
• An understanding of the fundamentals of wireless network design.
• A knowledge of the impact of the built environment on radio signals.

• An awareness of current technology and analysis methods used in the design of wireless communication systems.
• An in-depth knowledge and understanding of cellular networks.

• Capacity for independent self-learning within the bounds of professional practice.
• Specialised numerical skills appropriate to an engineer.
• Mathematics relevant to the application of advanced engineering concepts

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

• The module content is delivered in lectures and is reinforced by self-learning sessions and formative problem sheets, equipping students with the required problem-solving capability.
• Students can make use of staff "office hours" to discuss any aspect of the module with teaching staff on a one-to-one basis. These are sign-up sessions available for one hour per week per lecture course.
• Students will be required to submit formative problem sheets throughout the academic year into the virtual learning environment to check their understanding as the course progresses.
• Students will be formed into study groups and will attend timetabled self-learning sessions (up to a maximum of two) during the Michalemas and Epiphany terms.
• A benchmark test will take place at the start of the academic year. This will be used to guage students understanding and direct them to further study as appropriate.
• A mock exam will take place in the Epiphany term. This will be used to provide students with an exam type experience in a formative setting and allow them to discuss their performance with a member of academic staff.
• Written timed examinations are appropriate because of the wide range of analytical, in-depth material covered in this module and allow students to demonstrate the ability to solve advanced problems independently.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

Formative assessment is provided by means of formative problem sheets, benchmark test and mock examinations.

■ Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University