ECE5143 · Optical communications

Overview

Optical communication systems are the backbone of the internet and the connected services we rely on every day. This family of technologies powers everything from data centres training the latest AI models to the undersea cables that interconnect out planet. This unit divides industry-standard optical systems into their key building blocks and explores how each of these blocks works so that we can maximise their performance. The components introduced as blocks include lasers and lightwave sources, optical modulators, optical fibres, optical amplifiers, filters, multiplexers, photodiodes and optical receivers. Techniques including signal processing, performance measurement and compensation are also introduced. The utility of optical systems over the widely different scales of communication links is explored, with reference to data centres, metropolitan networks, and long-haul optical communications systems typical of an Australian commercial application.

Areas of study: E6011 Master of Professional Engineering - Specialisation: Electrical engineering E6017 Master of Advanced Engineering - Specialisation: Telecommunications engineering

Offerings

The Handbook publishes no offerings for this unit.

Assessment

The Handbook does not list a final examination among the assessment items. That is not a guarantee there is none.

Continuous assessment: 40% Final assessment: 60% This unit contains hurdle requirements that you must achieve to be able to pass the unit. You are required to achieve at least 45% in the total continuous assessment component and at least 45% in the final assessment component. The consequence of not achieving a hurdle requirement is a fail grade (NH) and a maximum mark of 45 for the unit. The assessments of this unit are designed to demonstrate the achievement of the advanced learning outcomes and standards expected of Master’s level coursework.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

Learning outcomes

1. Analyse the key components of optical communication systems, including fibre, transceivers and amplifiers, to predict optical link performance metrics.
2. Evaluate the physical phenomena that control the performance of optical components to justify system designs and common approaches taken to optimise performance.
3. Use simulation tolls (digital twins) to predict the performance of high-bandwidth optical links and optimise their designs.
4. Appraise state-of-the-art optical technologies, techniques and algorithms to evaluate their suitability for incorporation into links for short-, medium- and long-haul applications.
5. Design a long-haul communication link to meet a commercial brief, leveraging signal processing techniques and industry standards.

Workload

The minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of 3-6 hours of scheduled learning activities and 6-9 hours of independent study per week. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher-directed learning, peer-directed learning and online engagement. Independent study may include associated readings, assessment and preparation for scheduled activities.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.