MSc Communications and Signal Processing

Brief Description of the Unit

1. Antenna and Propagation (9 credit)
General introduction to antennas systems and propagation in free space.
Antenna parameters: Antenna gain, beamwidth, bandwidth, efficiency and size.
Polarisation: Polarisation-linear, circular and elliptic, multipath effects.
Antenna Radiation: Near field and far fields radiation and basic antenna measurements.
Antenna types: Multiple antennas forming arrays and array factor. Feed structures.
Antenna modelling: High-frequency methods, FDTD, MoM.
Propagation: Radio wave propagation and electromagnetics

2. RF Systems (6 credits)
Transmission line theory, Telegrapher’s equations. The Smith Chart, ABCD parameters and S-parameters. VSWR and reflection coefficient. Circuit analysis of lumped RF and distributed microwave components. Analysis of lossless reciprocal and non-reciprocal networks. Unitary condition. Worked examples – simple matching networks quarter-wave and lumped LC. Basics of the Smith Chart.

The programme unit aims to: Develop an understanding of the fundamental principles of antenna function and characteristics.  An understanding of the key parameters affecting the propagation of electromagnetic waves in free-space will be developed. Develop awareness and understanding of the available methods used to model antenna systems. Examine the basic analysis techniques for RF and microwave network analysis. Show how Smith Chart is used to analyse a circuit and to undertake some basic matching.

On successful completion of the course, a student will be able to:

ILO 1: Differentiate and apply the effect of antenna gain, beam width, polarisation and the nearfield & farfield radiation.

ILO 2: Apply the key parameters when addressing the performance of antennas and the theory behind it.

ILO 3: Ability to do measurement procedures and use the equipment needed for Antennas and RF circuits.

ILO 4: Ability to use main modelling techniques available to model antenna performance.

ILO 5: Use and the Smith Chart effectively for antenna matching.

ILO 6: Describe and differentiate the materials and processes involved in antenna production, including their environmental and social impacts, while addressing energy-efficient and sustainable design strategies, case studies on performance optimisation, and ethical considerations such as accessibility, privacy, and the digital divide.

ILO 7: Apply the new understanding of transmission line theory, loading and discrete modelling.

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