OVERVIEW

The course introduces the theoretical foundations and practical applications of telecommunications, with particular emphasis on systems used in the maritime domain. It covers the principles of signal transmission, the main modulation techniques, communication channels, and wireless and satellite communication systems, with particular attention to Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS), including the Global Positioning System (GPS).

AIMS AND CONTENT

LEARNING OUTCOMES

The teaching unit aims at introducing the basics of telecommunications, from signals (sampling, modulation, frequency analysis) to computer networks (transmission media and network protocols). At the end of the teaching unit, emphasis will be given to some of the main telecommunication systems usually present onboard by analysing the technology behind RADAR, SONAR and GPS.

AIMS AND LEARNING OUTCOMES

Upon successful completion of the course, Students will be able to:

• understand the fundamental principles of information transmission and telecommunication systems;

• describe the operating principles of the main modulation techniques and communication channels;

• understand the architecture and key features of wireless and satellite communication systems;

• explain the operating principles of Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS), with particular emphasis on the Global Positioning System (GPS).

PREREQUISITES

Basic knowledge of mathematics and physics is recommended, particularly in algebra, trigonometry, introductory calculus, and the fundamental principles of electromagnetism and wave propagation.

TEACHING METHODS

The course will be delivered through face-to-face lectures, complemented by online teaching activities provided in both synchronous (live) and asynchronous (recorded) formats. Teaching will rely primarily on slide-based material, which will be made available to students. A traditional whiteboard will also be used during in-person lectures, while a virtual whiteboard will be used during online sessions to illustrate examples, provide additional explanations, and present demonstrations.

Students with a valid certification of Specific Learning Disorders (SLDs), disabilities, or other special educational needs are encouraged to contact the instructor and the School's disability support representative at the beginning of the course to discuss appropriate teaching arrangements that, while respecting the intended learning outcomes, take into account their individual learning needs and characteristics.

The contact details of the instructor and the School's disability support representative are available on the following webpage: University Committee for the Inclusion of Students with Disabilities or Specific Learning Disorders (SLDs) | University of Genoa (UniGe).

SYLLABUS/CONTENT

• Introduction to telecommunication systems: communication models, signals and information, architecture of a telecommunication system.

• Fundamentals of signals in the time and frequency domains. Bandwidth and frequency spectrum.

• Transmission media and propagation: wired and wireless communication channels, attenuation, noise, and interference.

• Analog and digital modulation techniques. Multiplexing and multiple access methods.

• Fundamentals of information theory and coding.

• Wireless communications: operating principles.

• Satellite communications: principles, architectures, and applications in the maritime domain.

• Introduction to Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS): operating principles, the GPS as a representative example, and the main sources of positioning errors.

RECOMMENDED READING/BIBLIOGRAPHY

• Instructor's Notes

• Required Textbook

  • B. Carlson, Communications Systems, McGraw-Hill.

• Recommended References

  • L. J. Ippolito Jr., Satellite Communications Systems Engineering, Academic Press–Elsevier, Burlington, MA, USA, 2009 (Chapters 1–6).

  • D. Muñoz, F. Bouchereau, C. Vargas, R. E. Caldera, Position Location Techniques and Applications, Academic Press–Elsevier, Burlington, MA, USA, 2009 (Chapter 7).

TEACHERS AND EXAM BOARD

LESSONS

LESSONS START

Please refer to the University's Easy Academy platform by clicking here.

Class schedule

The timetable for this course is available here: Portale EasyAcademy

EXAMS

EXAM DESCRIPTION

The examination consists of a written test comprising multiple-choice questions administered through the AULAWEB platform.

ASSESSMENT METHODS

The assessment is designed to verify the achievement of the course learning outcomes, with particular emphasis on the understanding of the fundamental principles of telecommunications, transmission systems, and the main communication technologies. It evaluates students' ability to understand and interpret theoretical concepts, as well as to apply the acquired knowledge to solve simple problems related to signal transmission, communication systems, and satellite navigation systems.

As described above, the assessment consists of a written test comprising multiple-choice questions, including both theoretical questions and simple application-oriented problems, administered through the AULAWEB platform. The final grade is based on the correctness of the answers, according to the assessment criteria communicated to students before the examination.

FURTHER INFORMATION

For further information or clarification, students are encouraged to contact the course instructor.