Applications in Microwave Communications

We focus on the study/design of communications systems that operate within microwave frequencies (1-300 GHz). We review transmission/reception of TEM waves in various mediums, transmission lines, PCB’s and waveguides. We look at RF components including oscillators, amplifiers, filters, tuners, frequency converters and antenna systems. We also measure system performance in terms of dynamic range, noise figure and power delivery. Once these foundations are set, we look at the End-2-End system design for Radio/TV, Radar, WIFI, 5G-Mobile, Satellites, and fiber optic networks. We also look at high-speed circuits used throughout the packet switched Internet. We look at practical design approaches for high-availability design with guest industry experts. We augment class lectures with biweekly P-sets and hands-on lab experiments, both with instrumentation and SW simulation. The class has 2 mid-terms, a class field trip, and final design project from class concepts.