Communication Networks (ELEN90061)

Graduate courseworkPoints: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)

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Overview

Availability
Semester 2
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AIMS

This subject provides an introduction to the basic principles, analysis, and design of communication networks. It will cover analytical tools, the layered network architecture, and network protocols.

Analytical tools from queueing, optimisation, control, and graph theories will be used to develop an in-depth understanding of basic principles and the role they play in network design. Queueing theory will be emphasised as the primary methodological framework for analysing network delay which is one of the most important performance measures in data networks.

The concepts taught in this subject will allow a better understanding of the Internet as well as emerging communication paradigms such as Machine-to-Machine communication, Internet of Things, smart grid, and social networks.

INDICATIVE CONTENT

Topics covered may include:

  • The layered network architecture with a focus on physical-layer multiple access (TDM, FDM, WDM), link layer protocols and medium access control (MAC), network layer topologies, least-cost routing algorithms and protocols, transport layer protocols and the principles and techniques of practical reliable transport;
  • LAN protocols, Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and serial communications;
  • The Internet's network layer including the Internet Protocol (IP) and routing protocols including an introduction to BGP and the operation of forwarding tables in routers and shortest prefix routing;
  • The Internet's transport layer protocols UDP and TCP, including the flow and congestion control algorithms;
  • Network security, application layer, cloud and fog computing, Machine-to-Machine communication, and Internet of Things;
  • Queuing theory: basics, birth-death processes, M/M/x and Markovian queues, networks of queues;
  • Basics of graph theory and social network analysis relevant to communication networks.

Intended learning outcomes

INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOMES (ILOs)


Having completed this unit the student should be able to:



  • Quantitatively analyse the performance of simple queueing systems and communication networks
  • Explain the basic principles of communication network design, the layered architecture and network protocols
  • Design simple communication networks to achieve performance objectives

Generic skills

On completing this subject, students will have developed the following 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.

Last updated: 3 November 2022

Eligibility and requirements

Prerequisites

Prerequisites for this subject are:

Code Name Teaching period Credit Points
ELEN30010 Digital System Design
Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville)
 12.5
ELEN90054 Probability and Random Models
Semester 2 (On Campus - Parkville)
Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville)
 12.5

Corequisites

None

Non-allowed subjects

The anti-requisite for this subject is:

ELEN40005

Inherent requirements (core participation requirements)

The University of Melbourne is committed to providing students with reasonable adjustments to assessment and participation under the Disability Standards for Education (2005), and the Assessment and Results Policy (MPF1326). Students are expected to meet the core participation requirements for their course. These can be viewed under Entry and Participation Requirements for the course outlines in the Handbook.

Further details on how to seek academic adjustments can be found on the Student Equity and Disability Support website: http://services.unimelb.edu.au/student-equity/home

Last updated: 3 November 2022

Assessment

Additional details

  • One written examination, not exceeding three hours at the end of semester, worth 60%;
  • Continuous assessment of submitted project work completed in small groups (2-3 students), not exceeding 20 pages over the semester (approximately 40-45 hours of work per student), worth 30%;
  • A one-hour mid-semester test, worth 10%.

Hurdle requirement: Students must pass the written exam to pass the subject.

Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) 1 to 3 are assessed in the final written examination, the mid-semester test, and submitted reports.

Last updated: 3 November 2022

Dates & times

  • Semester 2
    Principal coordinatorTansu Alpcan
    Mode of deliveryOn Campus (Parkville)
    Contact hours36 hours of lectures and up to 24 hours of workshops
    Total time commitment200 hours
    Teaching period29 July 2019 to 27 October 2019
    Last self-enrol date 9 August 2019
    Census date31 August 2019
    Last date to withdraw without fail27 September 2019
    Assessment period ends22 November 2019

    Semester 2 contact information

    Email: tansu.alpcan@unimelb.edu.au

Time commitment details

200 hours

Last updated: 3 November 2022

Further information

  • Texts

    Prescribed texts

    TBA

    Recommended texts and other resources

    • Computer Networking: A Top Down Approach Featuring the Internet, 6th edition. Jim Kurose, Keith Ross, Addison-Wesley, 2012
    • Computer Networks, 5th edition. Andrew S. Tanenbaum , David J. Wetherall, Prentice Hall, 2010
    • Data Networks: 2nd edition. Dimitri Bertsekas, Robert Gallager, Prentice-Hall, 1992
    • Queuing Theory: Volume 1: Theory and Volume 2: Computer Applications, Leonard Kleinrock, John Wiley and Sons, 1975
  • Subject notes

    LEARNING AND TEACHING METHODS

    The subject is delivered through lectures and workshop classes that combine both tutorial and hands-on laboratory activities.

    INDICATIVE KEY LEARNING RESOURCES

    Students are provided with lecture slides, tutorial worksheets and solutions, workshop notes, and reference text lists.

    CAREERS / INDUSTRY LINKS

    Exposure to networking standards and protocols used by industry throughout the world.

    Exposure to industry standard engineering design automation tools through laboratory activities.

  • Related Handbook entries

    This subject contributes to the following:

    TypeName
    Specialisation (formal)Electrical with Business
    Specialisation (formal)Electrical
  • Available through the Community Access Program

    About the Community Access Program (CAP)

    This subject is available through the Community Access Program (also called Single Subject Studies) which allows you to enrol in single subjects offered by the University of Melbourne, without the commitment required to complete a whole degree.

    Please note Single Subject Studies via Community Access Program is not available to student visa holders or applicants

    Entry requirements including prerequisites may apply. Please refer to the CAP applications page for further information.

    Additional information for this subject

    Subject coordinator approval required

  • Available to Study Abroad and/or Study Exchange Students

    This subject is available to students studying at the University from eligible overseas institutions on exchange and study abroad. Students are required to satisfy any listed requirements, such as pre- and co-requisites, for enrolment in the subject.

Last updated: 3 November 2022