MSc Communications and Signal Processing

Introduction to the basics of digital communication systems including signals spectrum characterisation, Nyquist signalling and intersymbol interference analysis.

Various binary and non-binary baseband signalling techniques: coherent and differential, detection technique using matched filtering and correlation.

Bandpass modulation: binary and non binary PSK, ASK, FSK and QAM. Signal generation and demodulation, performance comparisons.

Synchronisation and Equalisation techniques: parameter estimation for equalisation, maximum likelihood sequence estimation, linear equalisation, feedback equalisation.

Information theory: various entropy definitions and uses, channel capacity, source coding Hoffman and Lemple-ziv.

Channel coding: coding and decoding method for various channel coding techniques including automatic repeat request, linear block codes, convolutional codes.

To develop an understanding of basic and advanced principles in digital Communication systems. The unit addresses the issues in the generation and detection of digital signals in physical layer including modulation, detection, synchronisation and equalisation aspects. Channel coding and decoding techniques will be covered with particular focus on fundamental methods for coding and decoding techniques in block coding and convolutional codes. The fundamental aspects of information theory including channel capacity and source coding techniques will be covered.

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

ILO 1: Apply various fundamental concepts in digital baseband communication systems.

ILO 2: Design various types of bandpass modulation techniques.

ILO 3: Design basic forms of frequency, time and code division multiple access techniques.

ILO 4: Describe various types of source coding and decoding techniques.

ILO 5: Describe fundamental types of channel coding and decoding techniques.

ILO 6: Discuss and communicate individual technical work effectively, and evaluate team working effectiveness. 

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• Digital communications: fundamentals and applications by Sklar. Bernard, Prentice Hall, 2017.
• Digital communications: fundamentals and applications by Sklar. Bernard, Pearson, 2021.
• Digital communications by Glover, Ian. Pearson Prentice Hall, 2009.
• Digital communications by Proakis, John G. McGraw-Hill Higher Education, 2008.
• Digital communications by Haykin, S. S. Wiley, 1988. 
• An introduction to digital communications by Kurzweil, Jack. Wiley, 2000.