Modern digital communications: a hands-on approach

Summary

This course complements the theoretical knowledge learned in PDC with more advanced topics such as OFDM, MIMO, fading channels, and GPS positioning. This knowledge is put into practice with hands-on exercises based on Matlab or Python (at choice) and on a software-defined radio platform.

Content

Keywords

Wireless, OFDM, Diversity, Coding, GPS, CDMA,  MMSE, Rayleigh fading, software-defined radio, channel estimation. 

Learning Prerequisites

Required courses

COM-302 Principles of Digital Communications (PDC) or equivalent.

Important concepts to start the course

Solid understanding of linear algebra and probability as well as real and complex analysis.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, the student must be able to:

• Design and implement an advanced digital communication system (data rate, spectral bandwidth, energy requirements, error probability, implementation complexity).
• Model the physical properties of wired and wireless communication channels.
• Implement various parts of a "physical-layer" digital communication system.
• Understand what software-defined radio is all about.

Teaching methods

Ex cathedra lectures and small projects.

Expected student activities

Follow lectures; guided as well as independent work on projects.

Assessment methods

Written and practical midterm and final exam during the semester.

40% midterm exam, 60% final exam.

Supervision

Resources

Notes/Handbook

Lecture notes

Moodle Link

• https://go.epfl.ch/COM-430