1
1
Transmitted Received
signal signal
Transmitter Channel Receiver
Distortion
Fig. 1: Communication System & Noise
Introduction
● Components of Communication System
q The source: originates a message (e.g., human voice, a television picture or data) - If
message is non-electrical, it converts it using the input transducer into electrical
waveform referred to as baseband signal or message signal.
q The transmitter: modifies the baseband signal for efficient transmission (more
discussion later)
Ø All electrical systems contain energy-storage elements and stored energy cannot be
changed- instantaneously. Consequently, communication system has a finite
bandwidth B that limits the rate of signal variation.
Ø Lack of sufficient transmission bandwidth to accommodate signal spectrum results in
distortion. E.g. Bandwidth of several MHz is needed for a TV video signal while a
few kHz is needed for voice
Introduction
Fundamental Limitations
The time required to transmit a given amount of information is inversely proportional
to bandwidth B
� = � ��� 1 + � � (1)
�� = � � ��� 1 + � � (2)
where � is the duration of transmisson.
Introduction
● Modulation
o Operation performed at transmitter to achieve efficient and reliable transmission
o Involves two waveforms: a modulating signal/intelligent message and a carrier wave
that suits the particular application
o Pulse modulation (discuss later), does not result in frequency translation needed for
effiecient signal transmission
Introduction
● Modulation Benefits and Applications
Primary purpose is to generate a modulated signal suited to the characteristics of the
transmission channel.
v Table 1 shows the electromagnetic spectrum divided into frequencies and wavelength
ranges on logarithmic scale. The term ‘microwave’ is somewhat nebulous and
imprecise, it could mean electromagnetic waves above a frequency of 1 GHz, and all
the way up to the lower limit of infrared band, encompassing UHF, SHF, EHF, and
mm-wave regions.
v Frequencies below the VLF range are seldom used for wireless transmission
because: (1) Huge antennas would be needed for efficient radiation
(2) Very low data rate only possible at these low frequencies.