RF and millimeter-Wave Circuit Design from Coursera

This unique Master-level course offered by the Center for Wireless Technology Eindhoven (CWT/e) of the Eindhoven University of Technology, The Netherlands, provides students with in-depth knowledge and hands-on experience on RF and mmWave circuit design.

The course covers the topics on how to derive the RF wireless systems specifications, and how to design the main building blocks of a transceiver, i.e., low noise amplifier, power amplifier, RF mixers, oscillators, and PLL frequency synthesizers. It is divided into two parts: (1) theoretical lectures will cover the basis of RF and mmWave Circuit Design; and (2) design labs will include simulation and implementation of these circuits.

The design labs are completely optional for obtaining the certificate, but they are recommended because they allow students to put into practice all the acquired theoretical knowledge, and of course, implementing the circuits is where all the fun is! The students will be able to do 70% of the design labs using simulation tools, which already offers a great learning experience. The other 30% will require students to either get access to an electronics lab or to purchase a few off-the-shelf components. But ultimately, this would allow students to design and build their own transceiver at home!

The course contains theoretical video classes with examples, quizzes, and an entire set of simulation files, step-by-step procedures, recorded data of real-life circuits, and solution videos so that students can learn from and build even better circuits.

What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction to RF & mm-Wave Circuit Design Course

This module will introduce the student to the RF and mm-Wave Circuit Design course and to the topic of wireless systems. It will present the learning objectives, grading system, supporting material, introductory class, and design labs. Besides, it will show the student how to use the simulation tools and the equipment used in the design labs.

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Read about what's good

what should give you pause

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Prerequisites are recommended but not required

Provides students with in-depth knowledge and hands-on experience on RF and mmWave circuit design

Taught by Carlos Mendes, Jr. and Peter Baltus, recognized experts in the field

Developed by the Center for Wireless Technology Eindhoven (CWT/e) of the Eindhoven University of Technology

Provides an entire set of simulation files, step-by-step procedures, recorded data of real-life circuits, and solution videos for hands-on learning

The course covers the topics on how to derive the RF wireless systems specifications, and how to design the main building blocks of a transceiver

Reviews summary

Comprehensive rf and mmwave circuit design

According to students, this is a comprehensive Master-level course that provides an in-depth theoretical foundation in RF and mmWave circuit design. Learners consistently praise the practical simulation labs, which are described as highly valuable for applying theoretical knowledge. The instructor's expertise and clarity in lectures are also frequently highlighted. While the course covers key transceiver building blocks extensively, a significant number of reviews indicate that it assumes a strong prior background in electrical engineering, making it challenging for beginners. The optional hardware labs are seen as enriching but may require external resources or dedicated lab access.

Hardware labs are conceptual but may face practical implementation barriers.

"While the hardware part was challenging to procure components for, the simulation labs are gold."

"The optional hardware labs are a nice touch, but for most people, they are impractical without dedicated lab access or significant investment."

"The hardware labs were a good idea conceptually but not feasible for me."

Course has been updated, addressing earlier minor issues.

"Some older reviews mentioned minor issues with files, but I found everything to be in order, suggesting the course has been updated."

"The course has improved over time based on what I've heard from peers who took it earlier."

Instructor demonstrates deep expertise and clear explanation.

"The instructor's expertise shines through in every lecture, making complex topics digestible."

"The lectures are detailed and the instructor clearly knows his stuff."

"The instructor is very clear and knowledgeable."

Offers excellent hands-on experience through practical simulation exercises.

"What truly sets it apart are the design labs. While the hardware part was challenging... the simulation labs are gold."

"The design labs are the highlight, offering real hands-on experience with simulation."

"The simulation exercises cemented my understanding."

Provides a thorough and in-depth understanding of core concepts.

"The theoretical foundation provided is incredibly thorough, building concepts from basic principles to complex applications."

"I found the course provides a strong foundation in RF and mmWave circuit design."

"The depth of coverage on each building block of a transceiver is impressive."

Best suited for learners with existing electrical engineering background.

"I would caution that this course is quite advanced; a strong background in electrical engineering and circuit theory is essential."

"The course assumes a high level of prior knowledge. As someone transitioning into RF, I found myself constantly needing to look up background information."

"I found the course difficult to follow without significant prior knowledge. It jumps into complex topics very quickly..."

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 and millimeter-Wave Circuit Design with these activities:

Review basic electronics concepts

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Brush up on fundamental electronics concepts to enhance your understanding in this course.

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Review basic concepts such as voltage, current, and resistance
Solve simple circuit analysis problems
Simulate basic circuits using software

Review literature on the basics of RF and mmWave Circuit Design

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Build up background knowledge of RF and mmWave fundamentals before taking the course.

View Radio Frequency System Architecture and Design... on Amazon

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Read Chapter 1, Introduction to RF/Microwave Circuit Design
Read Chapter 2, Transmission Line Basics
Read Chapter 3, Smith Chart Basics
Read Chapter 4, Matching Networks and Filters

Follow online tutorials on RF and mmWave circuit design

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Online tutorials can provide you with additional explanations and examples to help you better understand the course material.

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Identify the specific topics you need additional help with.
Find reputable online tutorials that cover those topics.
Follow the tutorials carefully and take notes.
Practice the concepts you learn in the tutorials.

Eight other activities

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Join a study group or participate in online discussions

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Discussing the course material with peers can help you reinforce your understanding and identify areas where you need additional support.

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Find a study group or online discussion forum for the course.
Participate in discussions and ask questions.
Share your knowledge and help others understand the material.

Join a study group or discussion forum

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Enhance your learning by collaborating with peers and discussing course concepts.

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Find a study group or discussion forum related to RF and mmWave circuit design
Participate in discussions and ask questions
Share your knowledge and insights with others

Design a simple RF amplifier using simulation tools

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Apply the concepts learned in the Amplifiers module by designing and simulating an RF amplifier.

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Choose a suitable RF amplifier topology
Design the amplifier circuit using simulation software
Simulate the amplifier circuit
Analyze the simulation results and optimize the design
Write a short report summarizing your design

Solve practice problems on RF and mmWave circuit design

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Practice problems will help you solidify your understanding of the concepts covered in the course and improve your problem-solving skills.

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Identify the key concepts and formulas related to the problem.
Break down the problem into smaller steps.
Apply the relevant formulas and concepts to solve the problem.
Check your answer and identify any errors.

Design and simulate an RF or mmWave circuit

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Designing and simulating a circuit will allow you to apply the concepts you learn in the course to a practical project.

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Choose a specific type of RF or mmWave circuit to design.
Research the specifications and requirements for the circuit.
Design the circuit using simulation software.
Simulate the circuit to verify its performance.
Analyze the simulation results and make any necessary adjustments to the design.

Practice oscillator design calculations

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Reinforce your understanding of oscillator design by solving practice problems.

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Find practice problems on oscillator design
Solve the practice problems
Check your answers and identify areas for improvement

Design and build a simple RF receiver

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Challenge yourself by applying everything you've learned to design and build a working RF receiver.

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Choose a suitable RF receiver architecture
Design the receiver circuit using simulation software
Build the receiver circuit on a PCB
Test and debug the receiver circuit
Write a detailed report on your project

Volunteer at a local electronics lab or maker space

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Gain practical experience in RF and mmWave circuit design by volunteering.

Browse courses on Circuit Design

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Find a local electronics lab or maker space
Contact the lab or maker space and inquire about volunteer opportunities
Assist with projects and tasks related to RF and mmWave circuit design
Network with other electronics enthusiasts and professionals

Career center

Learners who complete RF and millimeter-Wave Circuit Design will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

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Microwave Engineer

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Radio Frequency Engineer

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Hardware Design Engineer

A Hardware Design Engineer designs and develops electronic hardware. They may work on a wide range of applications, from consumer electronics to medical devices. This course can help you build a foundation in hardware design, which is essential for success in this role. You will learn about the basic principles of hardware design, as well as how to design and simulate hardware using industry-standard tools.

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Analog Circuit Designer

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Electromagnetic Compatibility Engineer

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Power Electronics Engineer

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Quality Engineer

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Test Engineer

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Technical Writer

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