Module Specification
The information contained in this module specification was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change, either during the session because of unforeseen circumstances, or following review of the module at the end of the session. Queries about the module should be directed to the member of staff with responsibility for the module.
Title Radio Propagation for Wireless Systems
Code ELEC411
Coordinator Professor Y Huang
Electrical Engineering and Electronics
Yi.Huang@liverpool.ac.uk
Year CATS Level Semester CATS Value
Session 2024-25 Level 7 FHEQ Second Semester 7.5

Aims

To develop an appreciation and understanding of radio propagation mechanisms.

To introduce and apply radio propagation models to applications.

Pre-requisites before taking this module (other modules and/or general educational/academic requirements):
 

Co-requisite modules:
 

Learning Outcomes

(LO1) Ability to solve basic radio propagation problems.

(LO2) Ability to conduct radio system coverage and planning.

(S1) On successful completion of the module, students should be able to show experience and enhancement of the following key skills: independent learning, problem solving and design skills.

(S2) On successful completion of the module, students should: be capable of calculated propagation characteristics and of performing system link calculations; be able to design radio communications circuits involving single-hop propagation via the ionosphere based on a knowledge of its key parameters.

(S3) On successful completion of the module, the student should be able to: apply their knowledge in the analysis of plane wave propagation in lossless media as well as to adapt this to situations involving reflection from complex, planar objects and refraction from the ionosphere.

(S4) After successful completion of the module, the student should be able to: demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of electromagnetic propagation in free space and in ionized media.

Syllabus
 

Introduction of radiowaves:review of Maxwell's equations and electromagnetics; the electromagnetic spectrum and radiowaves;  intrinsic impedance of materials and the effects of boundaries.

Radio propagation mechanisms:radiowave reflection, transmission, scattering and diffractions; radio propagation in various media.

Propagation prediction models and methods:the Friis formula and the radar equation;  line of sight paths;  ground reflections and multi-path propagation; diffraction and knife edges;  terrain effects.

The ionosphere: Characteristics and effects of the Sun on propagation;  Flat earth model.

Radio propagation applications: How to use the knowdge for radio system planning and deployment.

Teaching and Learning Strategies

Due to Covid-19, one or more of the following delivery methods will be implemented based on the current local conditions and the situation of registered students.
(a) Hybrid delivery, with social distancing on Campus
Teaching Method 1 - On-line asynchronous lectures
Description: Lectures to explain the material
Attendance Recorded: No
Notes: On average one per week

Teaching Method 2 - Synchronous face to face tutorials
Description: Tutorials on the Assignments and Problem Sheets
Attendance Recorded: Yes
Notes: On average one per fortnight

(b) Fully online delivery and assessment
Teaching Method 1 - On-line asynchronous lectures
Description: Lectures to explain the material
Attendance Recorded: No
Notes: On average one per week

Teaching Method 2 - On-line synchronous tutorials
Description: Tutorials on the Assignments and Problem Sheets
Attendance Recorded: Yes
Notes: On average one per fortnight

(c) Standard on-campus delivery with minimal social distancing
Teaching Method 1 - Lecture
Description: Lectures to explain the material
Attendance Recorded: Yes
Notes: On average one per week

Teaching Method 2 - Tutorial
Description: Tutorials on the Assignments and Problem Sheets
Attendance Recorded: Yes
Notes: On average one per fortnight

Teaching Schedule
  Lectures Seminars Tutorials Lab Practicals Fieldwork Placement Other TOTAL
Study Hours 12

   6

     2

 20
Timetable (if known)              
Private Study 55
TOTAL HOURS 75

Assessment
EXAM Duration Timing
(Semester)		 % of
final
mark		 Resit/resubmission
opportunity		 Penalty for late
submission		 Notes
Final exam There is a resit opportunity. Standard UoL penalty applies for late submission. Assessment Schedule (When) :Semester 2 examination period  2    100       
CONTINUOUS Duration Timing
(Semester)		 % of
final
mark		 Resit/resubmission
opportunity		 Penalty for late
submission		 Notes
             

Reading List
Reading lists are managed at readinglists.liverpool.ac.uk. Click here to access the reading lists for this module.