This module covers the basic principles of modelling signals in communications and control systems. It looks at how signals are described in both time and frequency and how translation occurs between the two. It considers how signals are manipulated by typical systems looking at applications in both communications and control. The aim of the module is to deliver a basic understanding of the principles of communications and control systems and means by which signals can be analysed, modelled and manipulated. This will include standard techniques and technologies to produce, modulate, code, demodulate and decode communications signals.

Upon completion of this module students should be able to:

Understand, and be able to apply to a range of practical situations, the basic scientific principles underlying communications and control systems, including information theory and basic means of analysing and modelling signals.
	Apply appropriate quantitative mathematical, scientific and engineering tools to the analysis of communications-related problems, for instance, calculation of signal-to-noise ratio in a satcom link.
	Analyse a range of practical communications systems, both digital and analog, determining performance and limits of operation (e.g. modulation depth, modulation speed, communications distance).
	Design circuits and systems to implement communications systems and sub-systems, such as a QAM modulator and a single-sideband mixer;
	Quantify the effects of noise in a communications system and its impact on system performance, such as bit error rate.
	Be able to analyse and design basic control systems and to have knowledge of the fundamental tools and techniques applicable to control, for instance Mason’s rule.
	Be able to minimize the environmental impact of their designs, in terms of power consumption and choice of components.
	Be proficient in the use of relevant software, in particular Matlab, for the analysis, design and simulation of communications systems and to estimate performance.