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Communication Systems

Key information

  • Module code:

    6CCE3COS

  • Level:

    6

  • Semester:

      Autumn

  • Credit value:

    15

Module description

This module will introduce the fundamentals of digital communication systems. Specifically the module elaborates on fundamentals of data modulation and demodulation; vector-space interpretation of the modulated waveforms; discrete data detection; decision regions; irrelevant components of channel output; optimum detection in additive white Gaussian noise (AWGN) channel; probability of error analysis in AWGN channels; union bounding; nearest neighbour union bound; general classes of constellations and modulation; fair comparisons of communication systems; the gap concept; pass-band signal representations; complex base-band analysis of pass-band signals; base-band noise characterisation; base-band demodulator; band-limited channels and inter-symbol interference (ISI); complex base-band ISI channel model; The matched-filter bound; ISI measures; Nyquist theorem and pulses; vestigial symmetry; raised cosine pulses and their square-root splitting; linear equalisation concept

Assessment details

Written examination & Coursework 

Educational aims & objectives

To introduce the fundamental concepts of digital communication systems, including data modulation and demodulation, discrete data detection, constellations, passband system analysis, intersymbol interference analysis and equalization concept. 

Learning outcomes

  • will be familiar with discrete vector representation of analog signals

  • will understand noise modelling and its statistical analysis in baseband and pass-band communication systems

  • will be able to find the optimum detector for an additive white Gaussian noise (AWGN) channel

  • will be experienced in calculating the average probability of error and its upper bounds for an AWGN channel

  • will understand signal constellations and several popular modulation schemes.

  • will be familiar with baseband equivalent modelling and converting real passband channel to a complex baseband equivalent

  • will have good understanding of modelling Inter-Symbol Interference (ISI) between successive transmissions and will understand the desired types of channel characteristics to eliminate ISI

  • will be experienced in ISI mitigation and understand the basic concept of linear equalisation

Module description disclaimer

King’s College London reviews the modules offered on a regular basis to provide up-to-date, innovative and relevant programmes of study. Therefore, modules offered may change. We suggest you keep an eye on the course finder on our website for updates.

Please note that modules with a practical component will be capped due to educational requirements, which may mean that we cannot guarantee a place to all students who elect to study this module.

Please note that the module descriptions above are related to the current academic year and are subject to change.