TCM-100 - Physical Layer Transmission

4 credits

The physical layer of every communication medium consists of the connectors, voltages, wires, optical fibers, hardware, and all the physical things that make standardized communication links possible. This course explores the way networks are built on the seven layer OSI model and then takes the student into the visible and measureable parts of the physical layer considering the basic concepts of signal, noise, bandwidth, and channel. Telecommunication systems with specific physical layers are studied, measured, and considered from the standpoint of data rate and efficiency. The modulation of signals is explored along with multiplexing, the combining of multiple signals for transmission over one channel. Methods of access are also studied as well as the basics of electromagnetic (EM) propagation of signals over wire, optical fiber, and wireless media. The study of modern telecomm networks: Cable, DSL, FIGS, WiFi, Cellular, etc. is included as well as demonstrations and experiments of the essential concepts. The course is delivered in a four credit hour lecture format.

Prerequisite(s): Senior Standing in TCM or instructor permission.

Course previously known as: TCOM-325