Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/rf-mmwave-circuit-design
In the ever-evolving landscape of wireless communication, understanding the intricacies of RF and millimeter-wave (mmWave) circuit design is paramount. For those looking to gain in-depth knowledge and practical experience in this specialized field, the “RF and millimeter-Wave Circuit Design” course offered by the Eindhoven University of Technology on Coursera is an exceptional choice.
This Master-level course, brought to you by the Center for Wireless Technology Eindhoven (CWT/e), is meticulously crafted to equip students with the essential skills needed to navigate the complexities of modern wireless systems. The curriculum begins with a foundational module that introduces the core concepts of RF and mmWave circuit design, outlining learning objectives, the grading system, and essential supporting materials. Crucially, it provides hands-on guidance on utilizing simulation tools and laboratory equipment, setting a solid groundwork for practical application.
The course then delves into the critical aspects of wireless system design, tracing the history of wireless technologies and exploring RF system specifications. Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of transceivers, including concepts like path loss, interference signals, receiver sensitivity, and transmitter output power. The first design lab, focused on a “Wireless Tin Can Telephone,” offers an engaging introduction to system design principles.
Key building blocks of a transceiver are thoroughly covered in dedicated modules. The “Amplifiers” section introduces basic concepts, power gain types, and common amplifier topologies, with a specific focus on low-noise amplifiers (LNAs) and power amplifiers (PAs). The second design lab provides hands-on experience in designing these crucial components.
Moving on to “Mixers,” the course elucidates their working principles, differentiating between active and passive mixers, and detailing the pros and cons of balanced versus unbalanced configurations. The impact of mixer noise performance is also highlighted, culminating in a design lab focused on up and down-conversion mixers.
The “Oscillators” module explores the fundamental principles of frequency oscillators, including the conditions for sustained oscillation, various topologies, tuning mechanisms, and the critical impact of noise. The influence of output buffering and breakdown voltage is also discussed, followed by a design lab on Voltage Controlled Oscillators (VCOs).
Finally, the “Synthesizers” module tackles the vital role of frequency synthesizers in modern wireless communications. Students will learn about Phase-Locked Loop (PLL) types, the advantages and disadvantages of All-Digital PLLs, and the effect of PLL frequency synthesizers on signal noise performance. The module concludes with an in-depth look at fractional-N PLL frequency synthesizers and a final design lab covering frequency dividers and phase detectors.
Overall, “RF and millimeter-Wave Circuit Design” is a robust and comprehensive course that strikes an excellent balance between theoretical knowledge and practical application. The inclusion of design labs using industry-standard tools makes it an invaluable resource for students and professionals alike looking to excel in the dynamic field of wireless communication.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/rf-mmwave-circuit-design