Communications and Information Policy, Spring 2006

Abstract:: This course provides an introduction to the technology and policy context of public communications networks, through critical discussion of current issues in communications policy and their historical roots. The course focuses on underlying rationales and models for government involvement and the complex dynamics introduced by co-evolving technologies, industry structure, and public policy objectives. Cases drawn from cellular, fixed-line, and Internet applications include evolution of spectrum policy and current proposals for reform; the migration to broadband and implications for universal service policies; and property rights associated with digital content. The course lays a foundation for thesis research in this domain.

High Speed Communication Circuits, Spring 2005

Abstract:: 6.776 covers circuit and system level design issues of high speed communication systems, with primary focus being placed on wireless and broadband data link applications. Specific circuit topics include transmission lines, high speed and low noise amplifiers, VCO's, and high speed digital circuits. Specific system topics include frequency synthesizers, clock and data recovery circuits, and GMSK transceivers. In addition to learning analysis skills for the above items, students will gain a significant amount of experience in simulating circuits in SPICE and systems in CppSim (a custom C++ simulator).

Abstract:: 6.976 covers system level issues of high speed communication systems and their impact on circuit requirements, with primary focus being placed on wireless and broadband data link applications. Course topics include: transistor level design techniques for high speed amplifiers, mixers, VCO's, registers and gates, and phase locked loops, and the impact of transmission line effects on circuit designs for narrowband and broadband systems. Finally, behavioral level simulation techniques are presented for phase locked loops and other communication circuits.

No Strings Attached

Abstract:: This module explains about broadband networks, an entity to be considered in future Telecommunication Networks. Modern communication services requires broadband network and from economical point of view utilising a single network for multiple services is an advantage, however understanding and controlling traffic in this situation is essential for quality of service.