EECE 7398: An Experimental Approach to Wireless Communications

EECE 7398: An Experimental Approach to Wireless Communications

Brief Description

Wireless communication networks play a key role in our society, impacting the way we learn, work, entertain, and many others. In this course, students will design, implement and test wireless communication solutions through a series of experiential modules and by leveraging state-of-the-art RF equipment. Specific topics include single- and multi-carrier modulations; synchronization; channel estimation and equalization; multi-user interference and coexistence. This course will provide students with the necessary skills to contribute to the deployment and operation of today’s wireless networks and the development of future wireless communication systems.

Objectives and Expected Outcomes

By the end of the course, students will be able to:

  • Identify and describe the key building blocks of a wireless digital communication system
  • Design and implement advanced wireless digital communication networks
  • Program and operate state-of-the-art RF equipment and professional-grade instrumentation
  • Conduct reliable experimental field measurement and testing campaigns
  • Write technical documentation in support of the designed and implemented systems
  • Participate effectively in a team and assess the strengths and weaknesses of the individual team members (including themselves) and the team as a unit 

Class Meeting Times

Tuesdays and Fridays in the new labs in Hayden Hall, from 9.50 to 11.30 AM.

Prerequisites (Working knowledge of...)

There are no formal prerequisites for this course, but working knowledge of wireless communications is welcome. Ideally, students first take EECE 5576 Wireless Communication Systems and then this course.

Consider reaching out to the instructor if you are not sure you meet the requirements.

Depth/Breadth Designation

This is a depth course for the CCSP (Communications, Control, and Signal Processing) and CNWS (Computer Networks and Security) concentrations, and breadth for other concentrations.

Course Contents

  • Module 1: Revisiting the Fundamentals of Wireless (Communication) Systems
  • Module 2: Introduction to the Lab RF Equipment
  • Module 3: Cutting the Wire: A Review of Antennas
  • Module 4: Framing and Synchronization
  • Module 5: Single-carrier Modulation/Demodulation
  • Module 6: Channel Estimation and Equalization
  • Module 7: Multi-carrier Communication
  • Module 8: Interference, Spectrum Sharing, and Coexistence

Course Materials

All the course materials will be available in Canvas:

  • Class notes
  • Technical documentation and manuals
  • Additional reading materials
  • Laboratory assignments and software

Assessment

* This is a hands-on course that leverages the new wireless laboratories in Hayden Hall. In-class attendance and participation are mandatory.

  • Laboratory Assignments:
    • Seven assignments: one per module, from Module 2 to Module 8
    • To be solved in groups of 2 students
    • For each assignment, students will follow a guided document during the laboratory hours and will have to complete a report upon its completion
    • To avoid late penalty deductions, laboratory reports should be submitted on or prior to the due date.
      • There will be an automatic 10-point per day deduction for reports submitted passed the deadline
    • Students are allowed to share ideas regarding guided laboratory assignments, but each team must independently write and submit their own solution
  • Final Project:
    • Time-allowing, students will complete a wireless communication project of their choice, which could include, for example:
      • Implementation of DFT-Spread-OFDM
      • Implementation of OTFS
      • Design and implementation of a joint communications and sensing system
  • Professionalism:
    • Students are expected to act in a professional manner. Please
      • Use professional style in all communications, including email, with course faculty and teaching assistants
      • Respect: You are expected to treat your instructor and all other participants in the course with courtesy and respect. Your comments to others should be factual, constructive, and free from harassing statements. You are encouraged to disagree with other students and the instructor, but such disagreements need to be respectful and be based on facts and documentation (rather than prejudices and personalities). Falling to adhere to this expectation may result in a lower grade. Part of the learning process in this course is the respectful engagement of ideas with others.

Grading Policy

Grade Distribution:

  • Laboratory Assignments: 80%
  • Final Project: 15%
  • Professionalism (Regular Attendance Included): 5%

Academic Integrity

A commitment to the principles of academic integrity is essential to the mission of Northeastern University. The promotion of independent and original scholarship ensures that students derive the most from their educational experience and their pursuit of knowledge. Academic dishonesty violates the most fundamental values of an intellectual community and undermines the achievements of the entire University.

As members of the academic community, students must become familiar with their rights and responsibilities. In each course, they are responsible for knowing the requirements and restrictions regarding research and writing, examinations of whatever kind, collaborative work, the use of study aids, the appropriateness of assistance, and other issues. Students are responsible for learning the conventions of documentation and acknowledgment of sources in their fields. Northeastern University expects students to complete all examinations, tests, papers, creative projects, and assignments of any kind according to the highest ethical standards, as set forth either explicitly or implicitly in this Code or by the direction of instructors.

Go to http://www.northeastern.edu/osccr/academic-integrity-policy/ to access the full academic integrity policy.

Student Accommodations

Northeastern University and the Disability Resource Center (DRC) are committed to providing disability services that enable students who qualify under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA) to participate fully in the activities of the university. To receive accommodations through the DRC, students must provide appropriate documentation that demonstrates a current substantially limiting disability.

For more information, visit http://www.northeastern.edu/drc/getting-started-with-the-drc/

Diversity and Inclusion

Northeastern University is committed to equal opportunity, affirmative action, diversity and social justice while building a climate of inclusion on and beyond campus. In the classroom, members of the University community work to cultivate an inclusive environment that denounces discrimination through innovation, collaboration and an awareness of global perspectives on social justice. It is my intention that students from all backgrounds and perspectives will be well served by this course, and that the diversity that students bring to this class will be viewed as an asset. I welcome individuals of all ages, backgrounds, beliefs, ethnicities, genders, gender identities, gender expressions, national origins, religious affiliations, sexual orientations, socioeconomic background, family education level, ability – and other visible and nonvisible differences. All members of this class are expected to contribute to a respectful, welcoming and inclusive environment for every other member of the class. Your suggestions are encouraged and appreciated.

Please visit http://www.northeastern.edu/oidi/ for complete information on Diversity and Inclusion

TITLE IX

Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 protects individuals from sex or gender-based discrimination, including discrimination based on gender-identity, in educational programs and activities that receive federal financial assistance.

Northeastern’s Title IX Policy prohibits Prohibited Offenses, which are defined as sexual harassment, sexual assault, relationship or domestic violence, and stalking. The Title IX Policy applies to the entire community, including male, female, transgender students, faculty and staff.

In case of an emergency, please call 911.

Please visit www.northeastern.edu/titleix for a complete list of reporting options and resources both on- and off-campus