ELC 236 Analog Electronics III

This course is an advanced study of electronic communications systems that includes signal analysis and synthesis of electrical noise, Fourier series, modulation and demodulation, transmission and reception of amplitude modulated (AM) and frequency modulated (FM) signals, transmission lines, wave propagation, antenna theory, microwaves, lasers, and fiber optics.

Credits

4

Prerequisite

Prerequisite: ELC 226

See Course Syllabus

Course Number and Title:

ELC 236 Analog Electronics III

Campus Location

  • Dover
  • Georgetown
  • Stanton

Effective Date

202651

Prerequisites

Prerequisite: ELC 226

Course Credits and Hours

4 credit(s)

3 lecture hours/week

3 lab hours/week

Course Description

This course is an advanced study of electronic communications systems that includes signal analysis and synthesis of electrical noise, Fourier series, modulation and demodulation, transmission and reception of amplitude modulated (AM) and frequency modulated (FM) signals, transmission lines, wave propagation, antenna theory, microwaves, lasers, and fiber optics.

Additional Materials

Required: Electronics Parts Kit

Recommended: Digital Multimeter, TI-84+ or TI-89 Calculator

Required Text(s)

Obtain current textbook information by viewing the campus bookstore - https://www.dtcc.edu/bookstores online or visit a campus bookstore. Check your course schedule for the course number and section.

Disclaimer

None

Core Course Performance Objectives (CCPOs)

  1. Analyze the components of electronic communications systems and explain how modulation and multiplexing enable signal transmission. (CCC 2, 5, 6; PGC 1, 2, 3, 5)
  2. Analyze the characteristics of the electromagnetic (EM) spectrum. (CCC 2, 5, 6; PGC 1, 2, 3, 5)
  3. Evaluate different domains of electrical signals, noise sources, noise reduction techniques, and signal-to-noise ratios for communications systems. (CCC 2, 5, 6; PGC 1, 2, 3, 5)
  4. Describe the technique of amplitude and frequency modulation, including domain analysis, power, efficiency, and spectrum analyzer measures. (CCC 2, 5, 6; PGC 1, 2, 3, 5)
  5. Characterize wave propagation, transmission lines, and antennas. (CCC 2, 5, 6; PGC 1, 2, 3, 5)
  6. Describe the applications for fiber-optics and laser technology in communications systems. (CCC 2, 5, 6; PGC 1, 2, 3, 5)
  7. Analyze the key features and operational principles of digital communication systems to understand their role in modern data transmission.(CCC 2, 5, 6; PGC 1, 2, 3, 5)

See Core Curriculum Competencies and Program Graduate Competencies at the end of the syllabus. CCPOs are linked to every competency they develop.

Measurable Performance Objectives (MPOs)

Upon completion of this course, the student will:

  1. Analyze the components of electronic communications systems and explain how modulation and multiplexing enable signal transmission.
    1. Describe the components of an electronic communications receiver and transmitter.
    2. Analyze the functions of modulation and multiplexing in enabling efficient signal transmission.
  2. Analyze the characteristics of the electromagnetic (EM) spectrum.
    1. Differentiate between audio frequency (AF) and radio frequency (RF).
    2. Discuss the EM spectrum and explain signal characteristics and applications for each segment.
    3. Analyze the relationship among frequency range, bandwidth, and wavelength.
  3. Evaluate different domains of electrical signals, noise sources, noise reduction techniques, and signal-to-noise ratios for communications systems.
    1. Examine the characteristics of electrical signals as defined within the time domain and frequency domain system.
    2. Investigate sources of electrical noise and evaluate methods for its reduction.
    3. Calculate and test the signal-to-noise characteristics of an electrical communications system.
  4. Describe the technique of amplitude and frequency modulation, including domain analysis, power, efficiency, and spectrum analyzer measures.
    1. Characterize the components of an amplitude and frequency modulation systems.
    2. Conduct frequency domain analysis of amplitude and frequency modulated waveform.
    3. Calculate power and efficiency.
    4. Analyze amplitude and frequency modulated waveform with various modulation indexes.
    5. Identify the components of a super-heterodyne receiver and quantify its performance.
  5. Characterize wave propagation, transmission lines, and antennas.
    1. Describe the characteristics of a radio wave.
    2. Evaluate the operation of basic antenna types, including ground plane, dipole, and Yagi, by analyzing their characteristics and applications.
  6. Describe the applications for fiber-optics and laser technology in communications systems.
    1. Describe the construction of fiber optic cable.
    2. Explain the propagation modes of fiber optic cable.
  7. Analyze the key features and operational principles of digital communication systems to understand their role in modern data transmission.
    1. Examine methods and characteristics of pulse modulation, demodulation, and multiplexing.
    2. Describe principles of coding, sampling rate, Nyquist frequency, error correction, and basic digital signal processing (DSP).
    3. Explain the interrelationships among system optimization, noise performance, spectral efficiency, bandwidth, and filtering.
    4. Research modulation and demodulation techniques used in the digital communication systems and present findings.

Evaluation Criteria/Policies

The grade will be determined using the Delaware Tech grading system:

90-100 = A
80-89 = B
70-79 = C
0-69 = F
Students should refer to the Catalog/Student Handbook for information on the Academic Standing Policy, the Academic Integrity Policy, Student Rights and Responsibilities, and other policies relevant to their academic progress.

Final Course Grade

Calculated using the following weighted average

Evaluation Measure

Percentage of final grade

Summative Assessments

3 - 4 exams (equally weighted)

50%

6 - 8 Laboratory Experiments (equally weighted)

30%

Formative Assessments

Homework (equally weighted)

10%

Quizzes (equally weighted)

10%

TOTAL

100%

Program Graduate Competencies (PGCs are the competencies every graduate will develop specific to his or her major)

  1. Apply practical knowledge of mathematics, science, engineering, and technology to electronics engineering technology problems. 
  2. Conduct, analyze, and interpret experiments using analysis tools and troubleshooting methods. 
  3. Demonstrate the ability to read and interpret electrical wiring, schematics and technical documentation. 
  4. Utilize programming concepts to develop solutions for electronics engineering technology problems. 
  5. Operate, integrate, and configure electronic components, ensuring proper functionality and adherence to safety and design specifications. 

Core Curriculum Competencies (CCCs are the competencies every graduate will develop)

  1. Apply clear and effective communication skills.
  2. Use critical thinking to solve problems.
  3. Collaborate to achieve a common goal.
  4. Demonstrate professional and ethical conduct.
  5. Use information literacy for effective vocational and/or academic research.
  6. Apply quantitative reasoning and/or scientific inquiry to solve practical problems.

Students in Need of Accommodations Due to a Disability

We value all individuals and provide an inclusive environment that fosters equity and student success. The College is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities. Students are encouraged to schedule an appointment with the campus Disabilities Support Counselor to request an accommodation needed due to a disability. The College's policy on accommodations for persons with disabilities can be found in the College's Guide to Requesting Academic Accommodations and/or Auxiliary Aids Students may also access the Guide and contact information for Disabilities Support Counselors through the Student Resources web page under Disabilities Support Services, or visit the campus Advising Center.

Minimum Technology Requirements

Minimum technology requirements for online, hybrid, video conferencing and web conferencing courses.