Unit name | RF Subsystems and Satellite Communications |
---|---|
Unit code | EENGM5200 |
Credit points | 10 |
Level of study | M/7 |
Teaching block(s) |
Teaching Block 2 (weeks 13 - 24) |
Unit director | Dr. Warr |
Open unit status | Not open |
Pre-requisites |
E2, E3, E5 |
Co-requisites |
None |
School/department | Department of Electrical & Electronic Engineering |
Faculty | Faculty of Engineering |
RF Subsystems:
This half-unit presents important concepts and techniques used in modern radio transceiver design. The topics covered include practical microwave frequency design considerations, signal mixing circuits and systems, oscillators and frequency synthesisers.
Satellite Communications:
This half-unit gives an overview of regulations and elements that make up Satellite Communications Systems, with the main emphasis on the communications link and the factors that affect system performance. For the space segment of a satellite system, the course considers satellite orbits, the location of a satellite from the earth, and satellite control. Examples of different kinds of satellite are given, together with the functions of subsystems, such as power generation, attitude control, transponders and antennas. The ground segment includes examples of earth stations, their antenna configuration and tracking requirements. For the design of the communications link between the satellite and the earth station, the signal to noise performance of the system needs to be determined. This section of the course includes the influence of the atmosphere (for instance scintillation and absorption) and the antenna and receiver characteristics. The course finishes with a brief description of modulation techniques and multiple access schemes used with satellite systems.
Elements:
RF Subsystems Dr P.A. Warr
Satellite Communications Dr G.S. Hilton
RF Subsystems
The subject, when taken with RF and Microwave Techniques and Antennas and Electromagnetic Compatibility will give the student the core knowledge required to practice as a radio engineer. The student will gain knowledge of the frequency translation of signals and the continuous wave signal sources. By the end of the course, students will be familiar with radio frequency design considerations, frequency translation, CW signal sources and will have undertaken an RF equipment case study on the spectrum analyzer, which is considered the most useful tool of RF designers.
Satellite Communications
Having completed this module, the students should be aware of all the components that should be considered when designing for a satellite communication system. Their understanding should be such that they can apply their knowledge to the design of a satellite communications link for a specific application.
Combination of lectures and laboratory sessions
Terminal Exam 100% 2hrs
RF Subsystems
Background reading and a reference list will be handed out in lectures
Satellite Communications
Pratt, Bostian Alnutt, Satellite Communications, J. Wiley, 1986, 2nd edition, ISBN 0 471 429120 (TK 5104 PRA) Highly Recommended