ECE 6634 - Multi-Channel Communications (3C)

In-depth study of modern multi-channel communications techniques, primarily multi-antenna systems (known as multiple-input multiple-output or MIMO) and Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM). Specifically the course examines multi-antenna techniques such as transmit and receive diversity, beamforming (including eigen-beamforming), and spatial multiplexing. Within the area of OFDM we examine modulation/demodulation, carrier bit loading, mitigating multipath, frequency-domain equilization, peak-to-average power reduction, and frequency offset mitigation. As time permits we will also investigate a third multi-channel technique know as multi-user scheduling or packet access networks.

OFDM has become ubiquitous as a technique for wireless communications. However, since it is an advanced technique we only touch on the topic in the introductory graduate level digital communications course, 5654. MIMO techniques are also fast becoming standard in wireless communications and are still the subject of substantial research. Thus, these two techniques which are introduced in earlier courses, require a more in-depth study.