Course content

The course describes various technologies used in access and transport networks. It is shown by examples where the different technologies are used.
- Introduction: the general composition of telecommunications networks with emphasis on the evolution from intelligent to stupid networks, interconnection of administrative and technological domains, overlay access, heterogeneity, real-time requirements, and backward compatibility
- Synchronization: definitions, phase-locked loops, clock hierarchies and hierarchical device synchronization, and synchronization methods used in various systems (ATM, mobile systems, wireless local area networks, satellite systems) where the emphasis is on how particular problems are solved.
- Multiplexing: frequency division, time division and statistical multiplexing. Digital synchronous hierarchy (SDH).
- Multiple access: frequency, time, slow frequency hopping, code and space division multiple access. Random access based on aloha and carrier sense techniques. Load control and stability management of random access systems.
- Switching: basic switching theory for connection-oriented and connectionless systems including numbering, routing and signalling. Principles of time, space and statistical switching. Clos-Benes networks, binary switching elements and label routing, and Banyan networks.
- Protocol theory: basic principles of protocol design and layering. Particular features of protocols used in the internet, signalling system number 7, and GSM/3G networks.
- Land mobile networks using GSM, GPRS and UMTS as examples: cells and radio propagation, architecture of mobile networks, channel coding, signalling, handover, location management, and security.
- Line-of-sight systems: the principles behind WiMAX, radio relay systems, and satellite systems. Some details of satellite systems are given: orbits, station keeping, system design, link budgets, and examples of trade-offs (weight, size, performance, and dependability). Intercontinental systems, VSAT, the INMARSAT systems are used as examples of satellite systems.
- Optical communication: fibres, splitters, couplers, filters, lasers, modulators, detectors, and switching elements.

Learning outcome

A. Knowledge:
1) To understand which components, functions and principles are required for the realization of access and transport networks.
2) To gain deep insight into the main principles of network synchronization, multiplexing, multiple access, switching and protocol design.
3) To understand how these components, technologies and principle are applied when constructing new telecommunications system.

B. Skills:
1) To be able to design and model new networks.
2) To be able to reuse ideas, technologies and components of previous systems to build new systems.

C. General competency:
To understand the design of the telecommunications network and which motives lie behind particular technological choices.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures and mandatory exercises. If there is a re-sit examination, the examination form may be changed from written to oral.

Compulsory assignments

• Exercises

Recommended previous knowledge

Course TTM4100 Communication - Services and Networks.

Course materials

Jan A Audestad: Technologies and Systems for Access and Transport Networks, Artech House, 2008.

Credit reductions