Module Descriptors
ADVANCED COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS
ELEC63071
Key Facts
Digital, Technology, Innovation and Business
Level 6
20 credits
Contact
Leader: Alison Griffiths
Hours of Study
Scheduled Learning and Teaching Activities: 26
Independent Study Hours: 26
Total Learning Hours: 52
Pattern of Delivery
  • Occurrence A, Stoke Campus, UG Semester 2 to UG Semester 3
  • Occurrence B, Stoke Campus, UG Semester 3
Sites
  • Stoke Campus
Assessment
  • REPORT - 2500 WORDS weighted at 60%
  • EXAM - 1.5 HOURS weighted at 40%
Module Details
INDICATIVE CONTENT
This module will provide you with a systematic understanding of Wired and Wireless Telecommunication Systems and Networks, including Long Term Evolution (LTE) and Multimedia traffic and relevant protocols. You will create a complex model of the communication channel and simulate the methods employed to overcome this harsh environment, these include equalisation, diversity, Smart Antennae and Forward Error Correction. The module will discuss the use of modern communication methods in a diverse range of real-world applications. At the end of the module, you will prepare a formal report based on your solution to a real-life problem.
ADDITIONAL ASSESSMENT DETAILS
1. A 2500 words individual report weighted at 60%, and assessing learning outcomes 3 and 4. You will design and simulate a communication system to a solve complex problem. The report will include a study on the environmental impact that electromagnetic waves have on the environment and address ethical issues on this matter. Meeting AHEP 4 Outcomes C3, C4, C7 and C8.
2. A 1.5-hour examination weighted at 40%, and assessing learning outcomes 1 and 2 by posing several questions to be answered covering topics included in the module to demonstrate deep knowledge and understanding of computational methods and analysis techniques applicable to communication systems. Meeting AHEP 4 Outcomes C1 and C2.

Professional Body requirements mean that a minimum overall score of 40% is required to pass a module, with each element of assessment requiring a minimum mark of 30% unless otherwise stated.
LEARNING STRATEGIES
This module will enable students to gain understanding, apply knowledge, analyse and evaluate problems and create solutions through a variety of activities, including problem-based lectures, tutorials, laboratories and independent study.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
Demonstrate a systematic understanding and detailed knowledge of the advanced communication principles that are at the forefront of this discipline. (AHEP 4: C1)
Knowledge and Understanding

Apply and extend appropriate analytical techniques to design and use decision making in complex contexts, evaluate the outcomes of a robust Advanced Communication System. (AHEP 4: C2)
Analysis
Application
Reflection

Use simulation techniques and key analytical skills to evaluate arguments and assumptions for relating results to theory whilst recognising the limitations of the simulation models employed (AHEP 4: C3, C4) Analysis
Problem Solving
Application

Evaluate, identify and minimise the environmental impact of electromagnetic waves used in advanced communication networks and analyse ethical concerns informed by professional codes of conduct. (AHEP 4: C7, C8)
Analysis
Communication
TEXTS
Choi, K. and Liu, H. (2016) Problem-based learning in communication systems using MATLAB and Simulink.
Leis, J.W. (2018) Communication Systems Principles Using MATLAB. 1st edn. Newark: Wiley. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1002/9781119470663.
Maier, M. (2023) 6G and onward to next G¿: the road to the multiverse. Hoboken, New Jersey: John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Mishra, A.R. and India, E. (2018) Fundamentals of network planning and optimisation 2G/3G/4G¿: evolution to 5G. Second edition. Hoboken, NJ, USA: Wiley.
Proakis, J. G.and Salehi, M., 2014. 2/E Fundamentals of Communication Systems, Global Edition, Pearson
Sklar, B. 2017 3/E. Digital communications fundamentals and applications. Prentice Hall, USA.
Wilamowski, B.M. and Irwin, J.D.(2018) Industrial communication systems. 2nd ed. Boca Raton: CRC Press.
RESOURCES
Telecommunications lab hardware and software, including:
TIMS equipment
Scopes and signal generators
MATLAB
Relevant telecommunications hardware, microcontrollers, sensors
Blackboard VLE
WEB DECSRIPTOR
This module will provide you with a systematic understanding of Wired and Wireless Telecommunication Systems and Networks, including Long Term Evolution (LTE) and Multimedia traffic and relevant protocols. You will create a complex model of the communication channel and simulate the methods employed to overcome this harsh environment, these include equalisation, diversity, Smart Antennae and Forward Error Correction. The module will discuss the use of modern communication methods in a diverse range of real-world applications. At the end of the module, you will prepare a formal report based on your solution to a real-life problem.