Module overview
This course is intended to give students an outline of how wireless communication and computer networks work "above the physical layer". This includes the interoperability of wireless networks such as WiMax/GPRS and WiFi to provide WiFi on trains etc. How wireless sensor networks gather and report physical parameters including body sensor networks. We also look at the evolution of cell phone networks from 2G to 5G and beyond.
Linked modules
Pre-requisites: MATH2047 AND ELEC1201
Aims and Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Knowledge and Understanding
Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
- Radio propogation - how it is helped and hindered by the environment
- How wireless resources can be allocated
- Protocols that allow the through routing of data out of a network of sensors
Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Evaluate the operation of existing and next generation wireless networks.
- Design network simulators using Matlab or OMNeT++ software.
Transferable and Generic Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Read and understand a technical specification and understand why things are done as they are
- Present work orally and as a written report
Syllabus
- To locate source material, read specifications and present material.
- An introduction to existing and next generation networks.
- Bluetooth/ Bluetooth Low Energy/ Profiles/ security/ Service discovery.
- Wireless sensor networks, Zigbee, time synchronised networks.
- Wireless Resource Allocation.
- Protocols.
- Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO) system.
Learning and Teaching
Type | Hours |
---|---|
Preparation for scheduled sessions | 12 |
Follow-up work | 12 |
Completion of assessment task | 62 |
Tutorial | 12 |
Lecture | 24 |
Wider reading or practice | 28 |
Total study time | 150 |
Resources & Reading list
General Resources
Sources will be given on the notes page of the course and as specific directed reading. There is no set text..
Assessment
Summative
This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.
Method | Percentage contribution |
---|---|
Continuous Assessment | 100% |
Referral
This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.
Method | Percentage contribution |
---|---|
Set Task | 100% |
Repeat
An internal repeat is where you take all of your modules again, including any you passed. An external repeat is where you only re-take the modules you failed.
Method | Percentage contribution |
---|---|
Set Task | 100% |
Repeat Information
Repeat type: Internal & External