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Signal Processing for Communications - ELE00159M

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  • Department: Electronic Engineering
  • Credit value: 20 credits
  • Credit level: M
  • Academic year of delivery: 2023-24

Module summary

To introduce the fundamental techniques of digital signal processing relevant to telecommunications and to allow students to apply those techniques to design problems.

Module will run

Occurrence Teaching period
A Semester 2 2023-24

Module aims

The aim of this module is to provide a thorough understanding of signal processing techniques used in communication systems.

Module learning outcomes

Subject content learning outcomes

After successful completion of this module, students will be able to:

  • Explain the place of digital signal processing in communication systems.

  • Describe channel models used in design and testing of communication systems.

  • Explain elements of estimation and detection theory relevant to the channel estimation, synchronisation, and data detection.

  • Explain optimal signal processing, including the optimal detection, matching filtering, adaptive filtering, LMS, and applications.

  • Describe signal processing techniques used for the phase and timing synchronisation.

  • Describe channel estimation and equalisation techniques.

  • Explain diversity systems, including the maximal ratio combining.

  • Explain multiuser detection.

  • Describe how the signal processing techniques are used in practical communications systems.

Graduate skills learning outcomes

After successful completion of this module, students will:

  • Be able to apply theoretical knowledge to development of communication systems at the physical layer level.

Module content

The module will introduce the students to the fundamental concepts of signal processing techniques for communications, such as the channel models, optimal detection, linear modulation, matching filtering, adaptive filtering, synchronisation, equalisation, channel estimation, diversity reception, multiuser detection and how the signal processing techniques are used in practical communications systems. After successful completion of this module, students will be able to apply theoretical knowledge to development of communication systems at the physical layer level. The fundamental concepts of signal processing in communications are assessed in a closed-book examination

Indicative assessment

Task % of module mark
Closed/in-person Exam (Centrally scheduled) 100

Special assessment rules

None

Indicative reassessment

Task % of module mark
Closed/in-person Exam (Centrally scheduled) 100

Module feedback

Feedback’ at a university level can be understood as any part of the learning process which is designed to guide your progress through your degree programme. We aim to help you reflect on your own learning and help you feel more clear about your progress through clarifying what is expected of you in both formative and summative assessments. A comprehensive guide to feedback and to forms of feedback is available in the Guide to Assessment Standards, Marking and Feedback.

The School of PET aims to provide some form of feedback on all formative and summative assessments that are carried out during the degree programme. In general, feedback on any written work/assignments undertaken will be sufficient so as to indicate the nature of the changes needed in order to improve the work. The School will endeavour to return all exam feedback within the timescale set out in the University's Policy on Assessment Feedback Turnaround Time. The School would normally expect to adhere to the times given, however, it is possible that exceptional circumstances may delay feedback. The School will endeavour to keep such delays to a minimum. Please note that any marks released are subject to ratification by the Board of Examiners and Senate. Meetings at the start/end of each term provide you with an opportunity to discuss and reflect with your supervisor on your overall performance to date.

Statement of Feedback

Formative Feedback

  • Problem sheets will be provided and marked in tutorial workshops, and you will have the opportunity to discuss your progress with the course tutor.

  • Regular lab sessions will provide the opportunity to ask questions and receive verbal help and feedback about your progress in developing practical skills.

  • Questions can be asked at any time during the in-class sessions or be Email, and will be answered as soon as possible.

Summative Feedback

Individual feedback will be provided on your written assessment.

Indicative reading

  • Meyr, H, Moeneclaey, M, and Fechtel, SA, 'Digital Communication Receivers. Synchronization, Channel Estimation, and Signal Processing', John Wiley & Sons, 1998, ISBN 0-471-50275-8.

  • Verdu, S, 'Multiuser detection', Cambridge University Press, 1998. ISBN 0-521-59373-5.

  • Proakis, J.D., 'Digital Communications' New York; McGraw-Hill, 1995


The information on this page is indicative of the module that is currently on offer. The University constantly explores ways to enhance and improve its degree programmes and therefore reserves the right to make variations to the content and method of delivery of modules, and to discontinue modules, if such action is reasonably considered to be necessary. In some instances it may be appropriate for the University to notify and consult with affected students about module changes in accordance with the University's policy on the Approval of Modifications to Existing Taught Programmes of Study.