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A System View of Communications

From Signals to Packets (Part 1)

4.5 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Half star
Based on 8 ratings
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Bertram Shi and Shenghui Song

Have you ever wondered how information is transmitted using your mobile phone or a WiFi hotspot? This introductory course seeks to enable you to understand the basic engineering tools used and tradeoffs encountered in the design of these communication systems.

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Have you ever wondered how information is transmitted using your mobile phone or a WiFi hotspot? This introductory course seeks to enable you to understand the basic engineering tools used and tradeoffs encountered in the design of these communication systems.

This course is divided into three parts. In Part 1, we examine the point-to-point link, which communicates information from a single transmitter to a single receiver. Part 2 examines how multiple transmitters can share the same physical channel. Part 3 discusses how information can be transmitted reliably from one station to another over a network that connects multiple stations. Online interactive exercises are included to help build your intuition.

This course was inspired by and built upon the course 6.02 Digital Communication Systems developed at MIT, which Prof Bertram Shi worked on during his sabbatical in 2009.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Learn the point-to-point link which communicates information from a single transmitter to a single receiver.
  • Gain a basic understanding of the engineering tools used and tradeoffs faced in designing digital communications systems.
  • Discuss effective solutions to overcome these challenges and develop intuitive, useful systems.
  • In this course, you will:

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores concepts in digital communication systems, which is a foundational topic in telecommunications
Well-suited for those seeking a background in the fundamentals of digital communication systems

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Reviews summary

Deep theoretical foundation in digital communications

According to learners, this course provides a strong theoretical foundation in digital communications, essential for understanding modern systems. Many students found the material challenging, emphasizing that it requires a solid background in mathematics and signal processing to fully grasp. While the instructor's expertise is widely acknowledged, some learners felt the pace was fast and the explanations occasionally dense. The assignments and quizzes are frequently mentioned as good practice, though some wished for more hands-on or practical applications. Overall, it is considered a valuable introductory course for those prepared for its rigor, laying crucial groundwork for subsequent parts.
Needs strong math/signal processing background.
"Highly recommend having a solid foundation in linear algebra and probability..."
"Struggled without a strong signal processing background."
"If you're not comfortable with math, this course will be tough going."
"Prior knowledge of Fourier transforms is very helpful."
Instructor is knowledgeable.
"The professor clearly knows the subject matter deeply."
"Instructor is an expert in the field."
"Lectures contain valuable insights from an experienced academic."
Reinforces concepts effectively.
"The assignments were very helpful for practicing the concepts."
"Quizzes test understanding well, though sometimes tricky."
"Good practice problems to solidify what was taught in lectures."
Offers a strong theoretical grounding.
"Provides a strong theoretical understanding of signal processing..."
"Deep dive into the mathematical underpinnings..."
"Covers the necessary theory in detail, which is exactly what I needed for a solid base."
"Learned the core concepts and models from a rigorous perspective."
Content is demanding and requires effort.
"This course is quite challenging, especially the math parts..."
"Found it difficult to keep up at times due to the complexity."
"Requires significant time commitment to understand the concepts fully."

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 A System View of Communications: From Signals to Packets (Part 1) with these activities:
Review 'Introduction to Digital Communication' by Rodger E. Ziemer and William H. Tranter
Gain a deeper understanding of digital communication principles through a comprehensive review of a foundational textbook.
Show steps
  • Purchase or borrow a copy of the book.
  • Read each chapter thoroughly, taking notes and highlighting key concepts.
  • Complete the exercises and problems at the end of each chapter to test your understanding.
Review linear algebra concepts
Refresh your linear algebra skills to strengthen your foundation for understanding digital communication systems.
Browse courses on Linear Algebra
Show steps
  • Review your lecture notes or textbooks on linear algebra.
  • Practice solving problems involving matrices, vectors, and linear transformations.
  • Take an online quiz or assessment to test your understanding.
Practice decoding binary signals
Engage in hands-on practice to enhance your ability to decode binary signals, a fundamental skill in digital communication.
Browse courses on Signal Processing
Show steps
  • Find online platforms or resources that provide binary decoding exercises.
  • Attempt the exercises, focusing on accuracy and efficiency.
  • Review your results and identify areas for improvement.
Three other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all six activities
Practice Probability Problems
Enhance your understanding of probability theory and strengthen your problem-solving skills.
Browse courses on Probability
Show steps
  • Solve probability problems from textbooks or online resources.
  • Create your own probability problems and solve them.
Explore online tutorials on Shannon's Theorem
Explore interactive tutorials to grasp the significance and applications of Shannon's Theorem in digital communication.
Show steps
  • Search for relevant tutorials on platforms like Coursera or edX.
  • Follow the tutorials, taking notes on key concepts and examples.
  • Complete any interactive exercises or quizzes to test your understanding.
Build a simple digital communication system using Arduino
Apply your knowledge by designing and implementing a basic digital communication system using Arduino, reinforcing your understanding of practical applications.
Show steps
  • Purchase the necessary components, including an Arduino board, sensors, and communication modules.
  • Design the system architecture and write the Arduino code.
  • Test and debug the system, ensuring reliable data transmission and reception.
  • Document your project and share your findings.

Career center

Learners who complete A System View of Communications: From Signals to Packets (Part 1) will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Communications Engineer
The engineering tools taught in the course, A System View of Communications: From Signals to Packets (Part 1), such as modulation, error correction coding, channel equalization, and multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) techniques, will equip you with valuable knowledge and skills that are highly sought after by employers in the telecommunications industry. With a solid understanding of these fundamentals, you will be well-prepared to contribute to designing and developing innovative communication systems that ensure reliable and efficient transmission of information over various channels.
See salaries and explore the career path for Communications Engineer
Networking Engineer
As a Networking Engineer, having a strong foundation in communications principles gained from A System View of Communications: From Signals to Packets (Part 1) will be crucial. This foundation will empower you to design, implement, and maintain robust and scalable networks that can handle the increasing demands of data traffic in today's digital world. You will be able to optimize network performance, troubleshoot complex issues, and ensure seamless connectivity for various applications.
See salaries and explore the career path for Networking Engineer
Signal Processing Engineer
A System View of Communications: From Signals to Packets (Part 1) provides Signal Processing Engineers with a comprehensive understanding of the signal processing techniques used in communication systems. By delving into topics such as modulation, demodulation, filtering, equalization, and synchronization, you will gain the skills necessary to design and implement signal processing algorithms that enhance the performance of communication systems. This knowledge will be invaluable as you work on developing cutting-edge technologies in fields such as wireless communications, radar, and image processing.
See salaries and explore the career path for Signal Processing Engineer
Wireless Communications Engineer
The course, A System View of Communications: From Signals to Packets (Part 1), will provide you with a strong foundation in the principles of wireless communications. You will learn about the fundamentals of cellular networks, multiple-access techniques, modulation schemes, and antenna systems. This knowledge will be essential for you to design, develop, and optimize wireless communication systems that can deliver high-speed data rates, reliable coverage, and low latency. As the demand for wireless connectivity continues to grow, this course will equip you with the skills to be at the forefront of this exciting field.
See salaries and explore the career path for Wireless Communications Engineer
Data Scientist
The course A System View of Communications: From Signals to Packets (Part 1) provides essential knowledge for aspiring Data Scientists. It covers fundamental concepts in data transmission and signal processing, such as modulation, error correction, and equalization, which are critical for understanding and working with large datasets. By gaining an understanding of these principles, you will be better equipped to develop algorithms and models that can effectively handle and analyze complex data, leading to valuable insights and decision-making in various fields.
See salaries and explore the career path for Data Scientist
Telecommunications Analyst
A System View of Communications: From Signals to Packets (Part 1) will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the fundamentals of telecommunications. This knowledge will empower you to analyze and evaluate the performance of communication systems, identify potential issues, and develop solutions to optimize network efficiency. You will be able to make informed decisions on network design, resource allocation, and technology upgrades, ensuring the smooth operation and continuous improvement of telecommunications networks.
See salaries and explore the career path for Telecommunications Analyst
Network Architect
By taking the course A System View of Communications: From Signals to Packets (Part 1), you will acquire a solid understanding of the fundamental concepts and technologies used in designing and implementing computer networks. This knowledge will enable you to effectively design, configure, and manage complex networks that meet the evolving demands of businesses and organizations. You will be able to optimize network performance, ensure reliability, and implement security measures, ensuring the smooth operation and efficiency of network infrastructure.
See salaries and explore the career path for Network Architect
Software Engineer
A System View of Communications: From Signals to Packets (Part 1) provides Software Engineers with a solid foundation in the principles of communication systems. This understanding will enable you to develop software applications that efficiently transmit, receive, and process data over various communication channels. You will be able to design and implement software components for network protocols, data compression algorithms, and signal processing applications, ensuring reliable and high-performance software solutions.
See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer
Hardware Engineer
The course A System View of Communications: From Signals to Packets (Part 1) will equip you with a deep understanding of the hardware components used in communication systems. You will learn about the design and implementation of analog and digital circuits, including modulators, demodulators, filters, and amplifiers. This knowledge will enable you to develop and optimize hardware systems that can effectively transmit, receive, and process signals in various communication applications.
See salaries and explore the career path for Hardware Engineer
Information Security Analyst
A System View of Communications: From Signals to Packets (Part 1) can be a valuable addition to your skill set as an Information Security Analyst. By understanding the fundamentals of communication systems, you will be better equipped to analyze and mitigate security vulnerabilities in network protocols and applications. You will be able to identify and address potential threats, such as eavesdropping, data manipulation, and denial-of-service attacks, enhancing the security and integrity of information systems.
See salaries and explore the career path for Information Security Analyst
Project Manager
The course A System View of Communications: From Signals to Packets (Part 1) may provide you with a broader understanding of the technical aspects of communication systems, which can be beneficial in managing projects related to network infrastructure, telecommunications, or software development. By having a foundational knowledge of the underlying technologies, you will be better equipped to communicate with technical teams, assess project feasibility, and make informed decisions that contribute to project success.
See salaries and explore the career path for Project Manager
Technical Writer
A System View of Communications: From Signals to Packets (Part 1) can enhance your skills as a Technical Writer specializing in the telecommunications industry or related fields. By gaining a deeper understanding of the technical concepts and principles involved in communication systems, you will be able to more effectively convey complex information to non-technical audiences. You will be able to write clear and concise documentation, user manuals, and training materials that accurately explain the functionality and applications of communication technologies.
See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Writer
Educator
The course A System View of Communications: From Signals to Packets (Part 1) can be a valuable resource for Educators teaching courses in telecommunications, computer science, or related fields. By gaining a deeper understanding of the fundamental concepts and technologies in communication systems, you will be better equipped to prepare your students for careers in these industries. You will be able to provide your students with a comprehensive overview of the field and inspire them to pursue further studies and research in this exciting domain.
See salaries and explore the career path for Educator
Consultant
The course A System View of Communications: From Signals to Packets (Part 1) may provide you with a foundational understanding of communication systems, which could be beneficial if you are considering a career as a Consultant in the telecommunications or IT industry. By gaining knowledge of the underlying technologies and principles, you will be better equipped to advise clients on network design, technology implementation, and troubleshooting. You will be able to provide valuable insights and recommendations that help organizations optimize their communication systems and achieve their business objectives.
See salaries and explore the career path for Consultant
Researcher
The course A System View of Communications: From Signals to Packets (Part 1) can provide you with a strong foundation for pursuing research in the field of communications. By gaining a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental concepts and techniques, you will be well-equipped to explore advanced topics and contribute to the development of new technologies. You will be able to conduct research in areas such as wireless communications, network optimization, and signal processing, contributing to the advancement of knowledge and innovation in the field.
See salaries and explore the career path for Researcher

Reading list

We've selected 13 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 A System View of Communications: From Signals to Packets (Part 1).
Cover image
Digital Communication Systems: First Edition
Save
This textbook comprehensive treatment of digital communication systems. It covers a wide range of topics, from basic concepts to advanced techniques.
Digital Communication Systems: First Edition: A...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
Computer Networks
Save
This classic textbook provides a comprehensive overview of computer networks, covering topics such as network architecture, protocols, and applications. It valuable resource for students and professionals alike.
Computer Networks
Paperback
Check
Computer Networks
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Digital Communications
Save
This textbook comprehensive treatment of communication systems engineering. It covers a wide range of topics, from basic concepts to advanced techniques.
Digital Communications
Paperback
$$$
Cover image
Probability, Random Variables, and Stochastic...
Save
This textbook provides a comprehensive treatment of probability, random variables, and stochastic processes. It covers a wide range of topics, from basic concepts to advanced techniques.
Probability, random variables, and stochastic...
Paperback
$$$
Wireless Communications
Save
This textbook provides a clear and concise introduction to wireless communications. It covers a wide range of topics, from basic concepts to advanced techniques.
Wireless Communications
Hardcover
$$$
Machine Learning and Wireless Communications
Hardcover
$$$
MIMO Wireless Communications
Paperback
$$$
Wireless Communications
Kindle Edition
$$$
Machine Learning and Wireless Communications
Kindle Edition
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MIMO Wireless Communications
Kindle Edition
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Data Communications and Networking
Save
This textbook provides a clear and concise introduction to data communications and networking. It covers a wide range of topics, from basic concepts to advanced technologies.
Data Communications and Networking with TCPIP...
Paperback
$$
Cover image
Matrix Analysis and Applied Linear Algebra
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This textbook provides a comprehensive treatment of matrix analysis and applied linear algebra. It covers a wide range of topics, from basic concepts to advanced techniques.
Matrix Analysis and Applied Linear Algebra, Second...
Paperback
$$$
Cover image
Introduction to Communication Systems
Save
This textbook provides a clear and concise introduction to digital communication. It covers a wide range of topics, from basic concepts to advanced techniques.
Introduction to Communication Systems
Hardcover
$$$
Introduction to Communication Systems
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
An Introduction to Analog and Digital...
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This textbook provides a clear and comprehensive introduction to communication systems. It covers a wide range of topics, from basic concepts to advanced techniques.
An Introduction to Analog and Digital...
Hardcover
$$$$
Cover image
The Mechanisms of Reactions Influencing Atmospheric...
Save
This textbook provides a comprehensive treatment of numerical analysis. It covers a wide range of topics, from basic concepts to advanced techniques.
The Mechanisms of Reactions Influencing Atmospheric...
Kindle Edition
$$$$
Cover image
Convex Analysis and Variational Problems
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This textbook provides a comprehensive treatment of calculus of variations. It covers a wide range of topics, from basic concepts to advanced techniques.
Convex Analysis and Variational Problems (Classics...
Paperback
$$$
Cover image
Partial Differential Equations
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This textbook provides a comprehensive treatment of partial differential equations. It covers a wide range of topics, from basic concepts to advanced techniques.
Partial Differential Equations (The Graduate...
Paperback
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Calculus of Variations and Nonlinear Partial...
Kindle Edition
$$$
PARTIAL DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS (2ND EDN) (English)
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Weak Convergence Methods for Nonlinear Partial...
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Partial Differential Equations
Hardcover
$$$
Cover image
Introduction to Communication Systems
Save
This textbook provides a clear and concise introduction to communication systems. It covers a wide range of topics, from basic concepts to advanced techniques.
Introduction to Communication Systems
Hardcover
$$$
Introduction to Communication Systems
Kindle Edition
$$$

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Course image
Rating
4.5 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Half star
Effort
4 to 6 hours per week for 7 weeks
Level
Introductory
Via
edX
Institution
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Instructors
Bertram Shi
Shenghui Song
Language
English
Transcript
English
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores concepts in digital communication systems, which is a foundational topic in telecommunications
Well-suited for those seeking a background in the fundamentals of digital communication systems
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