431-460 Digital Communications

431-327 Communication Systems

On completion of this subject, students should have a good understanding of the modern principles of digital communications.

Topics include source coding, rate distortion and quantisation theory; noisy channels; linear block codes, parity check codes; convolutional codes, the Viterbi algorithm; fundamental limits (entropy; mutual information and Shannon bounds); characterisation of signal waveforms; modulation and demodulation for AWGN channel; modulation schemes, signal constellations, probability of symbol error; digital signalling over band-limited channels; Nyquist criterion, pulse shaping, equalisation.

All concepts are illustrated by examples from engineering practice.

• ability to apply knowledge of basic science and engineering fundamentals

• in-depth technical competence in at least one engineering discipline

• ability to undertake problem identification, formulation and solution

• ability to utilise a systems approach to design and operational performance

• ability to function effectively as an individual and in multi-disciplinary and multi-cultural teams, with the capacity to be a leader or manager as well as an effective team member

• expectation of the need to undertake lifelong learning, capacity to do so

• capacity for independent critical thought, rational inquiry and self-directed learning

• intellectual curiosity and creativity, including understanding of the philosophical and methodological bases of research activity

• openness to new ideas and unconventional critiques of received wisdom

• profound respect for truth and intellectual integrity, and for the ethics of scholarship

One written 3-hour examination 70%, 2 laboratory reports (15% each) not exceeding 25 pages.