Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment & IT

Technology for tomorrow

Learner Guide
Department of Mechatronics North Campus

Communication Systems 3
CS3

Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Information Technology Department of Mechatronics Syllabus Guide for Communication Systems 3

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PREREQUISITE SUBJECTS/MODULES Electronics 2, Digital Systems 2 A PURPOSE STATEMENT / OBJECTIVES

The objective of the course is to introduce the circuits and systems that comprise electronic communication systems, and ways of implementing them to solve engineering problems. Analog and digital systems will be introduced. The skills acquired will enable the engineer to evaluate, select or design the appropriate solution to problems encountered where signals must be transmitted and/or received by transmission lines, radio frequency or microwave. After completing this module, the student should be able to:

Describe the essential elements of a communication system Explain the need for modulation in communication systems Distinguish between baseband, carrier and modulated signals and give examples of each Analyze Radio Frequency circuits and choose the correct configuration for a given application Write time-domain equation for radio signals and describe how the equation relates to the signal Analyse full-carrier, suppressed-carrier, and single-sideband suppressed-carrier AM signals in both the time and frequency domains Describe and explain the differences between amplitude and angle modulation schemes and the advantages and disadvantages of each Discuss the requirements and specifications of transmitters and determine whether a given transmitter is suitable for a particular application Describe the basic superheterodyne system and explain why it is the preferred design for most receivers Distinguish between single- and multiple-conversion receivers and decide which would be more suitable for a given application Analyse specifications for receivers and use them to determine suitability for a given application Analyse a circuit diagram for a receiver or transceiver to determine the function of each stage Discuss the requirements and specifications of transmitters and determine whether a given transmitter is suitable for a particular application Draw block diagrams for several types of transmitters and explain their operation Analyse the operation of transmitter circuits Compare analogue and digital communication techniques and discuss the appropriate use of each Describe and compare FSK, PSK and QAM and perform simple calculations with each Describe the nature and behaviour of radio waves and compare them with other forms of electromagnetic radiation Describe the most common methods of terrestrial propagation, decide on the most suitable method for a given frequency and distance, and perform the necessary calculations to determine the communication range Calculate the dimensions of simple practical antenna for a given frequency Identify, explain the operation of, and sketch the approximate radiation patterns for common types of antennas and antenna arrays

Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Information Technology Department of Mechatronics Syllabus Guide for Communication Systems 3

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ESSENTIAL CONTENT The following aspects of communication systems are integral to this course: Elements of communication systems Radio Frequency circuits Amplitude Modulation Frequency Modulation Transmitters Receivers Digital Communication Digital Modulation and Modems Transmission Lines Radio wave propagation Antennas

These will be evaluated against the objectives /outcomes provided in Section C. Summary of credits: This module is at NQF level 6 and is equivalent to 12 NQF credits (120 notional hours). This module includes a substantial amount of Engineering Science and to a lesser extent Design. In the process of modelling, analysis and design, engineering systems are represented through the use of Matlab-Simulink.

Maths 0

Basic Sciences 0

Credits per Knowledge Area Engineering Computing Design Science & IT 11 0 1

Complementary Studies 0

Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Information Technology Department of Mechatronics Syllabus Guide for Communication Systems 3

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The notional hours allocated to this module are summarized in the following table.
Conventional face-to-face contact Conventional tutorials (with tutor/lecturer) Other contact (eg satellite transmission, e-mail) chat room) Laboratory work Other practical work Internships, field trips, placements Group work Reading Preparation for contact sessions Self-study with learning resource material Written assignments Other exercises or assignments (eg oral presentations) Written assignments (during term/semester) Written assignments Other exercises Other assessments (during term/semester) Formal assessments TOTAL NOTIONAL LEARNING HOURS 35 8 12 5

10 30 10

10 120

LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS AM CDMA EIRP FDMA FM FSK PCM PSK QAM TDM Amplitude Modulation Code Division Multiplexed Access Effective Isotropic Radiated Power Frequency Division Multiplexed Access Frequency Modulation Frequency Shift Keying Pulse Code Modulation Phase Shift Keying Quadrature Amplitude Modulation Time Division Multiplexing

Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Information Technology Department of Mechatronics Syllabus Guide for Communication Systems 3

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SYLLABUS The following syllabus describes the scope of the work to be covered in this course. Learning outcomes Content Related Topics Considered
After completing this unit, learners will be able to: Describe the essential elements of a communication system Explain the need for modulation in communication systems Distinguish between baseband, carrier and modulated signals and give examples of each Write the equation for a modulated signal Describe time-division and frequencydivision multiplexing Explain the relationship between channel bandwidth, baseband bandwidth and transmission time Use frequency-domain representation of signals and convert signals between time and frequency domain Describe several types of noise and calculate the noise power and and voltage for thermal noise Calculate signal-to-noise ratio, noise figure, and noise temperature for single and cascaded stages Use the spectrum analyzer for for frequency, power and signal-to-noise ratio measurements

Reference/s

Assessment

Expected duration

Summative and Formative

Introduction to Communication Systems

Elements of a communication system Time and frequency domains Noise and communications Spectrum analysis

Chapter 1

MATLAB: Simulation of implementation of a full-wave rectified sine wave using Fourier series approach

Week 1 3.5h (lec)

Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Information Technology Department of Mechatronics Syllabus Guide for Communication Systems 3

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Learning outcomes Content Related Topics Considered

After completing this unit, learners will be able to: Describe the characteristics of Class A, B and C amplifiers and decide which type is the most suitable for a given application Analyze Radio Frequency circuits and choose the correct configuration for a given application Describe, draw circuits for, and analyse the most common types of radiofrequency circuits and discuss their relative stability Explain the operation of varactor-tuned voltage-controlled oscillators Describe the operation of crystalcontrolled oscillators and explain their advantages and disadvantages compared with LC oscillators; perform frequencystability calculations for crystal oscillators Describe the function of a mixer and analyse several types of circuits, explaining how and where they are used and calculating output frequencies Analyze frequency synthesizers employing phase-locked-loops Explain the uses of integrated circuits in radio frequency systems

Reference/s

Assessment

Expected duration

Radio Frequency Circuits

Radio frequency amplifiers High Frequency Effects Radio frequency oscillators Mixers Frequency synthesizers

Chapter 2

Summative and Formative. Tutorial No 1

Week 2 3.5h (lec)

Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Information Technology Department of Mechatronics Syllabus Guide for Communication Systems 3

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Learning outcomes Content Related Topics Considered

After completing this unit, learners will be able to: Write time-domain equation for an AM signal and describe how the equation relates to the signal Define the modulation index, calculate it and measure it using a spectrum analyser or an oscilloscope Describe the effects of over-modulation and explain why it must be avoided Calculate the bandwidth of an AM signal and explain why bandwidth is an important factor in a communications system Calculate power and voltage for an AM signal and for each of its components Calculate the improvements in signal-tonoise ratio that result from the use of suppressed-carrier and single-sideband techniques Analyse full-carrier, suppressed-carrier, and single-sideband suppressed-carrier AM signals in both the time and frequency domains

Reference/s

Assessment

Expected duration

Summative and Formative

Week 3 3.5h (lec)

Amplitude Modulation

Full Carrier AM: Time domain Full Carrier AM: Frequency domain Quadrature AM and AM Stereo Suppressed-Carrier AM

Chapter 3

MATLAB: Simulation: Implementation of an AM wave

Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Information Technology Department of Mechatronics Syllabus Guide for Communication Systems 3

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Learning outcomes Content Related Topics Considered

After completing this unit, learners will be able to: Describe and explain the differences between amplitude and angle modulation schemes and the advantages and disadvantages of each Describe and explain the differences between frequency and phase modulation and show the relationship between the two Calculate bandwidth, sideband frequencies, carrier and sideband voltage and power levels, and modulation index for frequencyand phase-modulated signals Explain the capture effect and noise threshold level for FM signals and calculate the signal-to-noise ratio for simple situations Relate deviation, bandwidth, and signal-tonoise improvement for FM systems Explain the use of pre-emphasis and deemphasis in FM systems and calculate component values for pre-emphasis and de-emphasis circuits Describe the system used for FM stereo broadcasting and draw a diagram showing the spectrum of an FM stereo signal Perform measurements on FM signals using a spectrum analyser

Reference/s

Assessment

Expected duration

Summative and Formative Tutorial No 2 Chapter 4 MATLAB: Simulation: Implementation of an FM wave Week 4 3,5h (lec)

Angle Modulation

Frequency Modulation Phase Modulation The Angle Modulation Spectrum FM and Noise FM Stereo

Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Information Technology Department of Mechatronics Syllabus Guide for Communication Systems 3

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Learning outcomes Content

Related Topics Considered

Transmitter requirements Transmitter topologies Full-Carrier AM transmitters Single-Sideband AM transmitters FM transmitters Transmitter Power measurements

Transmitters

Receivers

Receiver topologies Receiver characteristics Demodulators Receiver variations Communications receivers/transceivers Receiver measurements

After completing this unit, learners will be able to: Discuss the requirements and specifications of transmitters and determine whether a given transmitter is suitable for a particular application Draw block diagrams for several types of transmitters and explain their operation Analyse the operation of transmitter circuits Perform measurements on transmitters Describe the basic superheterodyne system and explain why it is the preferred design for most receivers Distinguish between single- and multipleconversion receivers and decide which would be more suitable for a given application Choose suitable intermediate frequencies and calculate image rejection for a receiver Explain the requirements for each stage in a receiver and suggest suitable types of circuits to fulfil the requirements Test and troubleshoot receivers Analyse specifications for receivers and use them to determine suitability for a given application Analyse a circuit diagram for a receiver or transceiver to determine the function of each stage

Reference/s

Assessment
Summative and Formative

Expected duration

Chapter 5

Tutorial No 3 Tutorial 5

Week 5 3,5h (lec)

Summative and Formative MATLAB: Demonstrate the demodulation of a DSBSC signal using a product detector in MATLAB Lab No 1

Chapter 6

Week 6 3.5 h (lec)

Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Information Technology Department of Mechatronics Syllabus Guide for Communication Systems 3

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Learning outcomes Content Related Topics Considered

After completing this unit, learners will be able to: Compare analogue and digital communication techniques and discuss the appropriate use of each Calculate the information capacity of a channel Calculate the minimum sampling rate for a signal and explain the necessity for sampling at that rate or above Describe the common types of analogue pulse modulation Describe pulse-code modulation and calculate the number of quantizing levels, the bit rate, and the dynamic range for PCM systems Perform calculations to show the effect of compression on a PCM signal Describe the coding and decoding of a PCM signal Describe Delta modulation and explain the advantages of adaptive delta modulation Describe and compare line codes in terms of frequency components and clockinformation content Show how time-division-multiplexing can be used to send multiple digital signals over a single channel Describe the operation of vocoders Explain the need for, and describe the use of, data compression techniques

Reference/s

Assessment

Expected duration

Summative and Formative

Digital
Communications

Pulse Modulation Pulse-Code Modulation Delta Modulation Line Codes Time-Division-Modulation Vocoders and Data Compression

MATLAB: Chapter 7 Demonstrate the operation of both a mu-law coder and decoder in MATLAB

Week 7 3,5h (lec)

Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Information Technology Department of Mechatronics Syllabus Guide for Communication Systems 3

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Learning outcomes Content Related Topics Considered

After completing this unit, learners will be able to: Describe the basic types of digital modulation Calculate the maximum data rate for a channel with given modulation scheme and signal-to-noise ratio Explain the use of eye diagrams and constellation diagrams Explain the difference between bit rate and baud rate and calculate both for typical digital modulation systems Describe and compare FSK, PSK and QAM and perform simple calculations with each Describe the operation of telephone modems and configure them using the AT command language

Reference/s

Assessment

Expected duration

Digital Modulation and Modems

Frequency-Shift Keying Phase-Shift Keying Quadrature Amplitude Modulation Telephone Modems Modem-to-Computer Connections Cable Modems and Digital Subscriber Lines

Summative and Formative Chapter 12 MATLAB: Demostration of the operation of a FSK system in Simulink Week 8 3,5h (lec)

Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Information Technology Department of Mechatronics Syllabus Guide for Communication Systems 3

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Learning outcomes Content Related Topics Considered

After completing this unit, learners will be able to: Explain the differences between multiplexing and multiple access Explain and compare the three major types of multiplexing and multiple access Calculate the number of signals that can be transmitted in a given channel using FDM and TDM techniques Describe the principles of spread-spectrum communications and distinguish between frequency-hopping and direct-sequence systems Calculate the spreading gain and signal-tonoise ration for spread-spectrum sequence systems Describe code-division multiple access and compare with FDMA and TDMA

Reference/s

Assessment

Expected duration

Summative and Formative Week 9 3,5h h (lec)

Multiplexing and Multiple Access Techniques

Frequency Division Multiplexing and Multiple Access Time-Division and Multiple Access Spread-Spectrum Systems Code-Division Multiple Access

Chapter 13

MATLAB: Demonstrate the operation of a TDM system in Simulink

Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Information Technology Department of Mechatronics Syllabus Guide for Communication Systems 3

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Learning outcomes Content Related Topics Considered

After completing this unit, learners will be able to: Give several examples of transmission lines and explain what parameters of a transmission line must be considered as the frequency increases Define characteristic impedance and calculate the impedance of a coaxial or open-wire transmission line Describe the responses of a matched and a mismatched transmission line to a step or pulse input Define reflection coefficient and standingwave ration and calculate them in practical situations Explain the importance of impedance matching with respect ot transmission lines and describe several methods of matching lines Perform the necessary calculations to achieve an impedance match Describe the function and use of several types of transmission-line test equipment

Reference/s

Assessment

Expected duration

Summative and Formative MATLAB: Display the impedance variation on a lossless line, given the line length, frequency, velocity factor characteristic impedance and load impedance

Transmission Lines

Electrical Model of a Transmission Line Step and Pulse Response of Lines Wave Propagation on Lines Transmission Line Losses Impedance Matching Transmission Line Measurements

Chapter 14

Week 10 3,5h (lec)

Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Information Technology Department of Mechatronics Syllabus Guide for Communication Systems 3

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Learning outcomes Content Related Topics Considered

After completing this unit, learners will be able to: Describe the nature and behaviour of radio waves and compare them with other forms of electromagnetic radiation Calculate power density and electric and magnetic field intensity for waves propagating in free space Explain the meaning of wave polarisation and differentiate between vertical, horizontal, circular, and elliptical polarisation Calculate free space attenuation Describe reflection, refraction and diffraction and calculate angles of reflection and refraction Describe the most common methods of terrestrial propagation, decide on the most suitable method for a given frequency and distance, and perform the necessary calculations to determine the communication range Describe the differences in propagation conditions in a mobile environment and calculate path loss in these conditions Explain the advantages of the use of repeaters and cellular systems for mobile communications, and perform typical calculations with these systems

Reference/s

Assessment

Expected duration

Radio Wave Propagation

Electromagnetic Waves Free-Space Propagation Reflection, Refraction and Diffraction Ground-wave Propagation Ionospheric Propagation Line-of Sight Propagation Propagation in a Mobile/Portable medium Repeaters and Cellular Systems Other Propagation modes

Chapter 15

Summative and Formative

Week 11 3,5h (lec)

Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Information Technology Department of Mechatronics Syllabus Guide for Communication Systems 3

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Learning outcomes Content Related Topics Considered

After completing this unit, learners will be able to: Explain the basic principles of operation of antenna systems Define radiation resistance and use it to calculate the efficiency of an antenna Define antenna gain, beamwidth, and frontto-back ratio, and determine them from a plot of an antennas radiation pattern Convert between antenna gains given in dBi and dBd, and use either to calculate effective isotropic radiated power (EIRP) and effective radiated power (ERP) for an antenna-transmitter combination Calculate the dimensions of simple practical antenna for a given frequency Identify, explain the operation of, and sketch the approximate radiation patterns for common types of antennas and antenna arrays Explain the use of diversity and downtilt in cellular base station antennas

Reference/s

Assessment

Expected duration

Antennas

Simple Antennas Antenna Characteristics Other Simple Antennas Antenna Matching Antenna Arrays Reflectors Cellular and PCS Antennas Antenna Test Equipment

Chapter 16

Summative and Formative

Week 12 3,5h (lec)

Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Information Technology Department of Mechatronics Syllabus Guide for Communication Systems 3

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D 1.

EVALUATION FORMATIVE ASSESSMENT Formative assessment does not contribute directly to the final course mark, but instead is for the purpose of feedback to the lecturer and for learners to gauge their competence in the various sections of work. Learners will be given tutorial exercises which are not required to be submitted. Students will be able to obtain assistance from the lecturer for these tutorials. Another form of formative assessment is by verbal feedback in class, by which the lecturer ascertains whether the learners comprehend the work.

2.

SUMMATIVE ASSESSMENT 2.1 TUTORIALS Learners will be given tutorial exercises that need to be submitted and it will be assessed by lecturer/student assistant. Immediate feedback will be provided on an individual level through a solution sheet indicating assessment. Tutorials will be drawn from exercises and problems in the textbook. 2.2 MATLAB LABORATORY The textbook makes use of Matlab throughout, and the student is expected to utilise Matlab to demonstrate his/her understanding in the application of Communication Theory fundamentals. The student will be provided with a session outlining the tasks that need to be completed. The learner must demonstrate his/her proficiency in using Matlab commands to generate visual responses in the process of analysis of communication systems. It is expected that the learner perform a certain amount of self-study to advance his/her own working knowledge of Matlab. 2.3 LABORATORY / PRACTICAL ASSIGNMENTS The purpose of this assessment is to reconcile practice with theory. The attainment of the specific outcomes will be assessed by observation of the practical demonstrations performed in the laboratory and the project submitted. This laboratory practical assessment is closed-book, and therefore the application of the various engineering concepts is practised from memory. Note: It is the learners responsibility to ensure that he/she reaches a high level of competency before being assessed. The learner should therefore consult the laboratory technician/assistant for additional access to the laboratory if required.

Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Information Technology Department of Mechatronics Syllabus Guide for Communication Systems 3

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2.4 THEORETICAL ASSESSMENT The purpose of this assessment is to ascertain whether or not an individual has achieved the specific outcomes. Students write a minimum of two theoretical assessments individually. The attainment of the specific outcomes will be assessed by the application of the assessment criteria supplied with each unit of learning and detailed for each assessment task. This assessment is closed-book and therefore the application of the various engineering concepts is written from memory. 2.5 COURSE MARK The course mark for Communication Systems 3 consists of a class mark (40%) and final examination (60%). The class mark constitutes 40% of the final mark, which may consist of tests, assignments, practical work and project, with the weighting at the discretion of the lecturer. The weighted average of the test marks will constitute 60% of the class mark. Tutorials 1 to 5 will be assessed based on the criteria and mark allocation provided on the assessment sheets and will constitute 10% (best 2 marks @ 5%) of the class mark. Matlab laboratories 1 and 2 will be assessed based on the criteria and mark allocation provided on the assessment sheets and will constitute 10% (2 assignment marks @ 5%). This component has sub-minimum of 40%. Laboratories 1 and 2 will be assessed based on a practical examination and will constitute 10% (2 x 5%) of the class mark. The project submitted will constitute 10% of the course mark. This component has sub-minimum of 40%. The final written examination constitutes 60% of the final mark (the examination is internally evaluated and moderated). The student must complete all the tutorials/ laboratory / practicals and write two tests to gain entry to the final written examination and The student must acquire a subminimum of 40% for the class mark to gain entry to the final written examination.

Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Information Technology Department of Mechatronics Syllabus Guide for Communication Systems 3

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FINAL ASSESSMENT (EXAM) Final assessment is done in the form of a 3 hour examination. The purpose of this assessment is to ascertain whether or not the key theoretical and practical concepts pertaining to the specific outcomes have been synthesized and integrated for this module by the individual. Learners do the final assessment individually at the end of the module. This assessment is closed-book and therefore the theoretical and practical application of the engineering concepts is created from memory. E E1 F F1 G G1 I ICT COMPONENT (software) Matlab-Simulink Toolbox. SCHEDULE OF WORK TESTS Test 1: Test 2: Notes: 1. The order in which the syllabus is covered may change and is at the discretion of the lecturer. 2. A minimum of 2 tests shall be written. TUTORIALS Tutorial 1: Chapters 1 & 2 Tutoria 2: Chapters 3 & 4 Tutoria 3: Chapters 5 & 6 Tutoria 4: Chapters 7, 12 & 13 Tutoria 5: Chapters 14, 15 & 16 Date: _____________ Date: _____________ Date: _____________ Date: _____________ Date: _____________ Date: ______________ Date: ______________ REFERENCES (Prescribed) R Blake; Electronic Communication Systems 2nd Edition, Delmar, 2002. OTHER REFERENCES

Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Information Technology Department of Mechatronics Syllabus Guide for Communication Systems 3

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MATLAB LABORATORY WORK MATLAB1: Amplitude Modulated Signals MATLAB2: Frequency Modulated Signals Date: _____________ Date: _____________

LABORATORY WORK LAB1: Measurement and analysis of AM RF signals LAB2: Measurement and analysis of FM RF signals Date: _____________ Date: _____________

PROJECT Submission of FM radio Receiver Project Date: _____________

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Tutorial Work
The following tutorials must be handed in to the lecturer at the commencement of the first lecture period for the week shown. The questions are found at the end of each chapter in the prescribed textbook.

Tutorial

Chapters

Questions

Due

1&2

2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 22, 24, 26, 32, 44

Third week

3&4

2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 22, 24, 26, 32, 44

Fifth week

5&6

2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 22, 24, 26, 32, 44

Seventh week

7, 12 & 13

2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 22, 24, 26, 32, 44

Tenth week

14, 15 & 16

2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 22, 24, 26, 32, 44

Thirteenth week

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Matlab Assignments
The following Matlab assignments must be submitted on the dates indicated.

Matlab Assignment 1 Due: Commencement of Week 5

Refer to Textbook Chapter 3 p 128

Implement the AM wave in Matlab with the following parameters: Ec = 20 mV Em = 5 mV fc = 100 kHz fm = 15 kHz

Print the Matlab sheet and give an explanation all that it contains.

Matlab Assignment 2 Due: Commencement of Week 7

Refer to Textbook Chapter 4 p 166

Implement the FM wave in Matlab with the following parameters: Ec = 60 mV Em = 10 mV fc = 250 kHz fm = 20 kHz = 60 kHz

Print the Matlab sheet and give an explanation all that it contains.

Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Information Technology Department of Mechatronics Syllabus Guide for Communication Systems 3

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FM Radio Receiver Project

You are required to build an FM Radio Receiver. A basic kit is provided containing most of the components required, including the TDA7000 IC. You will have to source and obtain any components not included in the component kit. You must access and obtain information from one of the many internet sites containing application notes for the TDA7000. Marks will be allocated for Design and layout of circuit Workmanship Operation Manual Specifications } Diagrams } Explanations } 30% 15% 30% 25% ___ 100%

THIS IS NOT A GROUP PROJECT AND ALL WORK SUBMITTED MUST BE YOUR OWN WORK. DO NOT SHARE YOUR WORK WITH ANY OTHER STUDENTS.

See the assessment sheet for details of assessment. Due Date:

Work handed in late will penalized in the following way:

1 day late: 2 or more days late

15% deducted from the mark earned by the student 15% deducted from the mark earned by the student for each days delay

Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Information Technology Department of Mechatronics Syllabus Guide for Communication Systems 3

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Name

...

Semester

Student No. ..

RADIO PROJECT
Layout and Construction 20

Soldering

10

Clarity of Audio

10

Range of stations received (4 marks per station)

20

Ease of operation

10

Report

30

TOTAL

100

PRACTICAL TEST
AM 50

FM

50

TOTAL

100

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Practical Test
Measure and calculate the following radio signal parameters and write the answer in the block. Make sure that you use the correct units. Maximum time allowed: 30 minutes

Name
Amplitude Modulation Measure Carrier Voltage Vc

Student No. Answer Marks

/10 /10 /10 /10 /10

Measure Carrier Frequency fc Measure Modulating Signal Voltage Vm Measure Modulating Signal Frequency fm Draw the frequency spectrum chart

Total

/50

Frequency Modulation Measure Maximum Carrier Frequency fcmax Measure Minimum Carrier Frequency fcmin Measure Carrier Frequency fc Measure Modulating Signal Frequency f m Draw the frequency spectrum chart

Answer

Marks
/10 /10 /10 /10 /10

Total
Draw Frequency Spectrum Charts Overleaf

/50

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Marking Rubric for Practical Test

AM
Carrier voltage Vc

Too Low

Correct reading

Too High

4
Carrier Frequency fc Modulating Voltage Vm Modulating Frequency fm

10

10

10

10

FM
Maximum Carrier Frequency fcmax

4
Minimum Carrier Frequency fcmin

10

4
Carrier Frequency fc

10

4
Modulating Signal Frequency f m

10

10

Final Practical Assessment Mark

(Average of the Project and the Practical Test)

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TESTS Test 1 Test 2

WEIGHTING 30% 30%

It is essential to obtain an average of 40% for these two tests in order to write the Final Exam

PRACTICAL WORK Radio Project Practical Test 10% 10%

It is essential to obtain an average of 40% for these two practical components in order to write the Final Exam

TUTORIALS Tutorial A Tutorial B MATLAB Assignment A Assignment B

TOTAL:

5% 5%

Tutorials A and B are the two tutorials that earned the best marks

5% 5%
100%

NB: If you do not obtain the 40% subminimum mark for both the Tests and the
Laboratory Work, then your Course Mark will automatically be 39%

Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Information Technology Department of Mechatronics Syllabus Guide for Communication Systems 3 J ASSESSMENT OF ELOs

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Note: The candidates are exposed to the following ELOs in this module. ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
The candidate applies in a number of varied instances, a systematic problem solving method including: 1. Analyses and defines the problem, and identifies the criteria for an acceptable solution; 2. Identifies necessary applicable engineering, knowledge and skills; information, and other

EXIT LEVEL OUTCOME

ELO 1: Problem solving Learning outcome: Demonstrate competence to identify, assess, formulate and solve convergent and divergent engineering problems creatively and innovatively. Range Statement: Problems require identification and analysis. Some cases occur in unfamiliar contexts. Problems are both concrete and abstract and may involve uncertainty. Solutions are based on theory and evidence, together with judgement, where necessary.

EXPOSED/ASSESSED
The systematic approach to problem solving in communication systems engineering is covered throughout this module and is required to be demonstrated in solutions presented in the assessments. This is however limited to fairly well defined problems which are required to be solved.

SATISFACTORY LEVEL
A final mark of 50% for the module.

3. Generates and formulates possible approaches to the solution of the problem; 4. Models and analyses possible solution(s); 5. Evaluates possible solutions and selects the best solution; 6. Formulates and presents the solution in an appropriate form.

Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Information Technology Department of Mechatronics Syllabus Guide for Communication Systems 3 EXIT LEVEL OUTCOME
ELO 2: Application of scientific and engineering knowledge Learning outcome: Demonstrate competence to apply knowledge of mathematics, basic science and engineering sciences from first principles to solve engineering problems. Range Statement: Knowledge is coherent and systematically organized, covering the fundamentals of the discipline, with depth in limited specialist area(s), informed by current developments. A coherent and critical understanding of the fundamental principles and theories of a discipline is required. An understanding of emerging issues in specialist area(s). Application of knowledge requires recognition of boundaries and limitations of disciplines.

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ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

The candidate: 1. Brings mathematical and numerical analytical methods to bear on engineering problems by using an appropriate mix of: a) Formal analysis and modelling of engineering components, systems or processes; b) Communicating concepts, ideas and theories with the aid of mathematics; c) Reasoning about and conceptualising engineering components, systems or processes using mathematical concepts; d) Dealing with uncertainty and risk through the use of probability and statistics. 2. Uses physical laws and knowledge of the physical world as a foundation for the engineering sciences and the solution of engineering problems by an appropriate mix of: a) Formal analysis and modelling of engineering components, systems or processes using principles and knowledge of the basic sciences; b) Reasoning about and conceptualising engineering problems, components, systems or processes using principles of the basic sciences.

EXPOSED/ASSESSED
Generally, complex-variable theory, differential equations are used extensively in the modelling, analysis and design of communication systems. Engineering problem solving and analysis is incorporated into this process to enable communication systems to meet overall performance specifications.

SATISFACTORY LEVEL
A final mark of 40% for the module.

The tutorials expose the learner to the modelling, solving and analysis of communications systems. Physical laws of systems and their dynamics are used in solving and analysing communications systems.

Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Information Technology Department of Mechatronics Syllabus Guide for Communication Systems 3 EXIT LEVEL OUTCOME
3.

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CS3 0 TVN & AS

ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

Uses the techniques, principles and laws of engineering science at a fundamental level and in at least one specialist area to: a) Identify and solve open-ended engineering problems; b) Identify and pursue engineering applications; c) Work across engineering disciplinary boundaries through cross disciplinary literacy and shared fundamental knowledge.

EXPOSED/ASSESSED

SATISFACTORY LEVEL

Note: Problems used for assessment may provide evidence in the application of one, two or all three categories of knowledge listed above.

ELO 5: Engineering methods, skills and tools, including Information Technology

The candidate identifies and deals with an appropriate combination of issues in: 1. Discipline-specific tools, processes or procedures; Computer packages for computation, modelling, simulation, and information handling; Computers and networks and information infrastructures for accessing, processing, managing, and storing information to

The laboratory work exposes the learner to measurement and analysis of communications signals. The project exposes the student to the practical problems associated with design, layout and assembly of highfrequency RF circuits. Optimal performance will require troubleshooting and faultfinding which give invaluable hands-on experience. Matlab is an integral part of the course

Learning outcome: Demonstrate competence to use appropriate engineering methods, 2. skills and tools, including those based on information technology. 3. Range Statement: A range of methods, skills and tools

The learner must obtain A final mark of 40% for the module.

Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Information Technology Department of Mechatronics Syllabus Guide for Communication Systems 3 EXIT LEVEL OUTCOME
appropriate to the disciplinary designation of the program. 4.

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CS3 0 TVN & AS

ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

enhance personal teamwork; productivity and

EXPOSED/ASSESSED
and extensively used in the analysis and design of communication systems.

SATISFACTORY LEVEL

Basic techniques for economics, business management, and health, safety and environmental protection.

In Matlab assignments 1 and 2 the student uses software functions and the programming capability of Matlab to perform time-domain and frequencydomain analysis of simulated communication systems. It is expected that the student perform independent learning into the simulation and analysis features of Matlab, as no specific lectures will be offered.