A System View of Communications: From Signals to Packets (Part 1)

About

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.

What you will learn

In this course, you will:

• 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.

Skills you learn

• Mobile Phones
• Digital Communications
• Telecommunications

Auto Summary

Embark on a fascinating journey through the intricacies of modern communication systems with "A System View of Communications: From Signals to Packets (Part 1)." This foundational course in IT & Computer Science demystifies the processes behind information transmission via mobile phones and WiFi hotspots. The first segment of a comprehensive three-part series, it focuses on the fundamentals of point-to-point communication, detailing how a single transmitter and receiver exchange information. Guided by Prof. Bertram Shi and developed from MIT's renowned 6.02 Digital Communication Systems course, this program offers a blend of theoretical insights and practical exercises to enhance your understanding of communication system design. You'll delve into the essential engineering tools and trade-offs that shape these systems, supported by interactive online exercises to solidify your learning. The course spans 48 hours and is available through the Starter subscription on edX. It's tailored for individuals at the foundation level, making it accessible to beginners eager to grasp the basics of digital communication. Whether you're a student, aspiring engineer, or tech enthusiast, this course provides a robust platform to build your knowledge and skills in the dynamic field of communications.