Communication Networks

Subject ELEN90061 (2011)

Note: This is an archived Handbook entry from 2011.

Credit Points: 12.50
Level: 9 (Graduate/Postgraduate)
Dates & Locations:

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2011:

Semester 2, Parkville - Taught on campus.
Pre-teaching Period Start not applicable
Teaching Period not applicable
Assessment Period End not applicable
Last date to Self-Enrol not applicable
Census Date not applicable
Last date to Withdraw without fail not applicable


Timetable can be viewed here. For information about these dates, click here.
Time Commitment: Contact Hours: 36 hours of lectures and up to 24 hours of workshops
Total Time Commitment: Not available
Prerequisites: Prerequisites for this subject are:
Subject
Study Period Commencement:
Credit Points:
Corequisites: None
Recommended Background Knowledge: None
Non Allowed Subjects: Anti-requisites for this subject is :
Subject
Core Participation Requirements: For the purposes of considering request for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Students Experiencing Academic Disadvantage Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Description, Subject Objectives, Generic Skills and Assessment Requirements of this entry. The University is dedicated to provide support to those with special requirements. Further details on the disability support scheme can be found at the Disability Liaison Unit website: http://www.services.unimelb.edu.au/disability/

Contact

Email: elen-subjectenquiry@unimelb.edu.au
Subject Overview:

This subject provides an introduction to the basic principles of communication network design, the layered network architecture, and network protocols. Students will gain exposure the role of optimisation and random process modelling and undertake a network design project. Topics to be covered include:

  • Network topologies for core and access networks;
  • Voice and circuit-switched networks, packet switching and multiplexing gain;
  • The layered network architecture with a focus on physical-layer multiple access (TDM, WDM), link layer protocols and medium access control (MAC), network layer topologies, routing algorithms and protocols (IP), transport layer protocols (TCP), flow control, ARQ error control and analysis of utilisation;
  • Random process models for analysing delay, optimisation methods or network design and network reliability and quality of service issues;
  • LAN protocols, ATM, MPLS, protection and restoration.

All concepts are to be illustrated by examples from wire-line, wireless and optical telecommunication networks.

Objectives: On completing this subject the student should be able to:
  • Explain the basic principles of communication network design, the layered architecture and network protocols;
  • Quantitatively analyse the performance of simple communication networks;
  • Design simple communication networks to achieve performance objectives.
Assessment:
  • One written examination, not exceeding three hours at the end of semester, worth 70%;
  • Continuous assessment of submitted project work, not exceeding 30 pages over the semester, worth 30%.
Prescribed Texts: TBA
Breadth Options:

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.
Fees Information: Subject EFTSL, Level, Discipline & Census Date
Generic Skills:
  • Ability to apply knowledge of basic science and engineering fundamentals
  • In-depth technical competence in at least one engineering discipline
  • Ability to undertake problem identification, formulation and solution
  • Ability to utilise a systems approach to design and operational performance
  • Capacity for independent critical thought, rational inquiry and self-directed learning
  • Ability to communicate effectively, with the engineering team and with the community at large
Related Course(s): Bachelor of Engineering (Computer Engineering)
Bachelor of Engineering (Electrical Engineering)
Bachelor of Engineering (Electrical) and Bachelor of Arts
Bachelor of Engineering (Electrical) and Bachelor of Commerce
Bachelor of Engineering (EngineeringManagement) Electrical
Postgraduate Certificate in Engineering
Related Majors/Minors/Specialisations: B-ENG Electrical Engineering stream
Master of Engineering (Electrical)
Master of Engineering (Mechatronics)

Download PDF version.