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Payam Heydari

The second course in this seven-course series focuses on the fundamentals of communication theory. OF particular importance is the concept of modulation and demodulation. We will learn that the information that is being transmitted and received by a communication device often occupies frequencies from DC to a few megahertz (gigahertz in the case of data). Effective communication over a long distance often requires frequency-upconversion of the information, which is called baseband signal, to high frequency using another signal called carrier. The information can be featuring different attributes of the carrier such as its amplitude, phase, or frequency. Placing the information on the amplitude of the carrier leads to the notion of amplitude modulation (AM). Likewise, in the case that the phase or frequency of the carrier varies by the baseband signal, we will achieve phase modulation (PM) and frequency modulation (FM).  Modern communication systems all employ digital modulation. Digital modulation allows the use of digital signal processing techniques to vastly improve spectral efficiency during signal transmission. To more efficiently use the spectrum to transmit data, thus increasing the information rate, the information bits can be formed into "symbols." Each symbol is comprised of several bits. The symbol transmission allows for sending more information bit at specific instances of time. The symbol formation together with frequency upconversion constitutes the digital modulation. In this course, we will learn about different digital modulation techniques including amplitude, phase, and frequency shift keying, and quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM). Widely used advanced techniques such as orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) will also be discussed in this course.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • The second course in the seven course series on rf circuits and systems provides an easy-to-uderstand overview of communication theory.
  • The main focus of this course would be on analog and digital modulation techniques being adopted in m modern communication standards.
  • The participants will get insight into modulation/demodulation, and performance parameters such as bit-error rate (ber), and error-vector magnitude (evm)
  • The participants will learn topics such as orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (ofdm), widely used in practice.

Syllabus

Fundamental of Communication Theory
Introduction to the Course

1. Basics of modulation

2- Benefits of employing modulation in a communication system



Read more
Fundemantal of Communication Theory

Modulated signals are bandpass, and thus, the RF radio handling them exhibits bandpass frequency response. In this lecture, we will learn how to represent a bandpass RF signal, and why to fully characterize an RF signal, we must know both its in-phase and quadrature components.

An overview of

1. amplitude modulation (AM),

2. phase modulation (PM), and

3. frequency modulation (FM)

This lecture provides examples of

1. an AM modulator circuit;

2. a non-coherent AM demodulator circuit;

3. an FM modulator circuit; and

4. an FM demodulator circuit



This lecture describes the fundamentals of

- baseband digital transmission;

- pulse amplitude modulation (PAM); and

- return-to-zero (RZ) vs. non-return-to-zero (NRZ)



This lecture goes over the following crucial concepts:

- Intersymbol interference (ISI)

- Eye diagram

- Nyquist condition for zero-ISI and ideal Nyquist channel



The following important topics will be covered in this lecture:

- Nyquist condition for zero ISI

- Practical problems with ideal Nyquist channel

- Pulse shaping

- Raised cosine pulses

In this lecture, we learn the basics of quadrature representation of bandpass digital modulation signals and will get ourselves familiar with digital modulation techniques

This lecture will go over some of the widely used digital modulation techniques:

- Binary phase-shift keying (BPSK) modulation and constellation

- Spectral efficiency

- Quadrature PSK (QPSK) modulation and constellation

- M-ary PSK modulation and constellation

- Quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM)

In this lecture, we will learn important topics in wireless communication, such as

- Multi-path propagation

- Orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM)

- FDM vs. OFDM

- Advantages and disadvantages of OFDM



The following concepts will be introduced:

- BER definition

- BER comparison of different modulation schemes

- EVM definition

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Teaches analog and digital modulation, which are fundamentals of communication systems
Covers orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM), widely used in practice
Taught by Payam Heydari, recognized for their work in RF circuits and systems
Builds on previous knowledge, so it's suitable for learners with some background in communication theory
Provides examples of modulation/demodulation circuits, making the concepts more tangible
Covers both theoretical concepts and practical applications, making it relevant for industry professionals

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Reviews summary

Praised rf circuits course

Learners say this engaging course is an excellent fit for beginners who want to learn the basics of RF circuits and communication theory. With well-structured lessons, clear explanations, and useful examples, students find the course easy to follow and informative.
The instructor's expertise shines through in the course content.
"knowledgeable and easy to understand"
"Mark always delivers! I love his courses!"
"I am using it as a template for a copywriting course ."
"Very good match, but not finished with the course completely."
"Excellent for getting new/extra ideas if already in the business."
Provides a solid foundation for students new to RF circuits and communication theory.
"It’s very engaging so far"
"Easy to understand for beginners."
"Clear, instructive, straightforward!"
"Loved the course. It was easy to learn as Iam beginner"
"The course is interesting!!! The Instructor is GREAT!!!"
The course is presented in a captivating and interactive manner.
"Very clearly explained 👌"
"It’s very engaging so far"
"Very interesting. Already learned alot"
"Easy to understand and lots of examples"
"I like the way the course is set up."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in RF Circuits and Systems - Basics of Communication Theory with these activities:
Understanding Fourier Transforms
Ensure you have a foundational understanding of Fourier Transforms prior to the course.
Browse courses on Fourier Transforms
Show steps
  • Review prerequisite materials on Fourier Transforms
  • Practice solving Fourier Transform problems
Review essential communication theory concepts
Reviewing this book will provide you with a foundation in communication theory concepts prior to starting the course.
View Melania on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read Introduction, Chapter 1: Introduction to Communication Theory
  • Review Chapter 2: Noise and Capacity
  • Complete Chapters 3-5: Modulation, Demodulation and Transmission
  • Do practice problems at the end of each chapter
Compile Resources on Communication Theory
Organize and curate valuable resources to support your learning journey.
Browse courses on Communication Theory
Show steps
  • Search for relevant papers, articles, and websites
  • Categorize and organize the materials by topic
  • Create an annotated bibliography or resource guide
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Explore Practical Modulation Techniques
Familiarize yourself with practical modulation techniques used in communication systems.
Browse courses on Modulation
Show steps
  • Follow a video tutorial on basic modulation techniques
  • Research and explore different modulation schemes
  • Read an article on real-world applications of modulation and demodulation
Explore Modern Digital Modulation Techniques
Expand your knowledge of digital modulation techniques through this acclaimed book.
Show steps
  • Read Chapter 3: Baseband Transmission of Digital Data
  • Review Chapter 4: Bandpass Transmission of Digital Data
  • Complete Chapter 5: Multicarrier Modulation Techniques
  • Summarize the main concepts and applications
Solve Modulation and Demodulation Problems
Test your understanding by solving problems related to modulation and demodulation.
Browse courses on Modulation
Show steps
  • Solve textbook problems on modulation techniques
  • Complete online quizzes or exercises on demodulation
  • Practice applying these concepts in simulated communication scenarios
Attend a Workshop on Advanced Modulation Techniques
Gain practical knowledge and insights from industry experts by attending a related workshop.
Browse courses on Modulation
Show steps
  • Research upcoming workshops on advanced modulation techniques
  • Register and attend the workshop
  • Engage with speakers and fellow attendees
Design a Modulation and Demodulation Module
Enhance your understanding and creativity by designing a module on modulation and demodulation.
Browse courses on Modulation
Show steps
  • Choose a specific modulation and demodulation technique
  • Research and understand the theory and implementation details
  • Design a flowchart or block diagram for the module
  • Write a report summarizing your design and implementation

Career center

Learners who complete RF Circuits and Systems - Basics of Communication Theory will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Communications Engineer
The role of a Communications Engineer is to design, install, operate, and maintain communication systems. This course provides essential knowledge and theory of communication systems. It will teach the fundamentals of communication theory, including digital modulation techniques, performance parameters, and advanced techniques such as orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM). By understanding the key concepts covered in this course, Communications Engineers can develop a strong foundation for their career in designing and optimizing communication systems.
RF Engineer
RF Engineers design, test, and maintain radio frequency systems. This course will provide the fundamentals of communication theory and RF circuits and systems. The course covers topics such as modulation and demodulation, which are critical for designing and testing RF systems. By completing this course, RF Engineers can gain a deeper understanding of the theory behind RF systems and how to apply it to their work.
Telecommunications Engineer
Telecommunications Engineers design, develop, and maintain telecommunications networks. This course will provide the fundamentals of communication theory and RF circuits and systems, which are essential for understanding the operation of telecommunications networks. By completing this course, Telecommunications Engineers can gain a deeper understanding of the theory behind telecommunications networks and how to apply it to their work.
Wireless Communications Engineer
Wireless Communications Engineers design, develop, and maintain wireless communications systems. This course will provide the fundamentals of communication theory and RF circuits and systems, which are essential for understanding the operation of wireless communications systems. By completing this course, Wireless Communications Engineers can gain a deeper understanding of the theory behind wireless communications systems and how to apply it to their work.
Digital Circuit Designer
Digital Circuit Designers design, develop, and test digital circuits. This course will provide the fundamentals of communication theory and RF circuits and systems, which are essential for understanding the operation of digital circuits. By completing this course, Digital Circuit Designers can gain a deeper understanding of the theory behind digital circuits and how to apply it to their work.
Systems Engineer
Systems Engineers design, develop, and test systems. This course will provide the fundamentals of communication theory and RF circuits and systems, which are essential for understanding the operation of systems. By completing this course, Systems Engineers can gain a deeper understanding of the theory behind systems and how to apply it to their work.
Embedded Systems Engineer
Embedded Systems Engineers design, develop, and test embedded systems. This course will provide the fundamentals of communication theory and RF circuits and systems, which are essential for understanding the operation of embedded systems. By completing this course, Embedded Systems Engineers can gain a deeper understanding of the theory behind embedded systems and how to apply it to their work.
Analog Circuit Designer
Analog Circuit Designers design, develop, and test analog circuits. This course will provide the fundamentals of communication theory and RF circuits and systems, which are essential for understanding the operation of analog circuits. By completing this course, Analog Circuit Designers can gain a deeper understanding of the theory behind analog circuits and how to apply it to their work.
Network Engineer
Network Engineers design, develop, and maintain computer networks. This course will provide the fundamentals of communication theory and RF circuits and systems, which are essential for understanding the operation of computer networks. By completing this course, Network Engineers can gain a deeper understanding of the theory behind computer networks and how to apply it to their work.
Product Manager
Product Managers develop and manage products. This course may provide some useful knowledge and theory of communication systems, such as modulation and demodulation techniques, performance parameters, and advanced techniques such as orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM).
Software Engineer
Software Engineers design, develop, and test software. This course may provide some useful knowledge and theory of communication systems, such as modulation and demodulation techniques, performance parameters, and advanced techniques such as orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM).
Project Manager
Project Managers plan and manage projects. This course may provide some useful knowledge and theory of communication systems, such as modulation and demodulation techniques, performance parameters, and advanced techniques such as orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM).
Technical Writer
Technical Writers create documentation for technical products. This course may provide some useful knowledge and theory of communication systems, such as modulation and demodulation techniques, performance parameters, and advanced techniques such as orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM).
Data Scientist
Data Scientists collect, analyze, and interpret data. This course may provide some useful knowledge and theory of communication systems, such as modulation and demodulation techniques, performance parameters, and advanced techniques such as orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM).
Business Analyst
Business Analysts analyze business needs and develop solutions. This course may provide some useful knowledge and theory of communication systems, such as modulation and demodulation techniques, performance parameters, and advanced techniques such as orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM).

Reading list

We've selected 11 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in RF Circuits and Systems - Basics of Communication Theory.
Classic text on communication theory with significant content devoted to analog and digital modulation. It is an excellent, widely-used textbook for advanced undergrad or graduate students.
A classic in the field. is very similar to Lathi in scope and level and is another widely-used textbook for undergraduate and graduate courses in communication theory.
A textbook for undergrad and grad students with a focus on digital communication systems. Strong on information theory and coding.
A textbook that focuses more on the theoretical underpinnings of wireless communication systems, particularly in the context of information theory. An excellent resource, but may be too theoretical for this course.
Widely regarded as one of the best textbooks on communication systems. Very comprehensive and mathematically rigorous. More valuable as a reference than as a primary textbook for this course.
A textbook on wireless communications that covers modulation and communication theory as a part of a more general treatment of the topic. May be of use as additional reading for those who want more context.
A widely-used undergraduate textbook that provides good coverage of the basics of analog and digital communication systems. It may be a bit too basic for this course and more valuable as a background reference than as a primary textbook.
A classic book on information theory. Most of the book is fairly mathematical and requires a solid foundation in probability theory to fully appreciate, but Chapter 1 and Chapter 2 contain valuable background information on modulation and communication theory that may be of use.
A detailed guide to the design and implementation of RF and microwave transmitters. While it covers modulation techniques, it is much more focused on hardware.
Classic textbook on coding theory. It will be of value primarily to students looking to take their understanding of communication systems to advanced levels.

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