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Communication Networks (ELEN90061)
Graduate courseworkPoints: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)
About this subject
- Overview
- Eligibility and requirements
- Assessment
- Dates and times
- Further information
- Timetable (login required)(opens in new window)
Contact information
Semester 2
Overview
| Availability | Semester 2 |
|---|---|
| Fees | Look up fees |
AIMS
This subject introduces the basic principles, analysis, and design of communication networks. It covers relevant analytical methods, the layered network architecture of the Internet, and a multitude of network protocols.
Analytical tools from queueing, optimisation, and graph theories are used to develop an in-depth understanding of basic principles and the role they play in network design. Specifically, queueing and graph theories are emphasised as methodological frameworks for communication network delay and structure analysis.
The concepts taught in this subject lead to a better understanding of the Internet as well as modern communication paradigms such as Software-Defined Networks, Machine-to-Machine communication, Internet of Things, 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
Having completed this unit the student should be able to:
- Analyse, design, and simulate modern communication networks by drawing upon cognitive, technical, and creative skills
- Quantitatively analyse and synthesise modern communication networks by applying fundamental engineering modelling methods
- Demonstrate mastery of theoretical knowledge on basic concepts related to communication network design, the layered architecture, and relevant network protocols, and their relationship and to reflect critically on their theory and professional practice
- Apply fundamental techniques from communication networks to address problems associated with engineering systems and use numerical and simulation tools when appropriate while working in a small team
- Demonstrate technical research skills on communication networks to justify and interpret related engineering solutions, methodologies, conclusions, and professional decisions
- Communicate effectively with specialist audiences as well as professionals across different engineering disciplines, through media such as concise technical reports and informational videos or live presentations
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: 31 January 2024
Eligibility and requirements
Prerequisites
| Code | Name | Teaching period | Credit Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| ELEN90054 | Probability and Random Models | Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville) |
12.5 |
Corequisites
None
Non-allowed subjects
ELEN40005 Communication Networks
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: 31 January 2024
Assessment
| Description | Timing | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
A one-hour progress test
| From Week 4 to Week 6 | 10% |
A one-hour progress test
| From Week 10 to Week 12 | 10% |
Continuous individual assessment of project work, including peer assessment, not exceeding 50 pages per student over the semester. Approximately 50 hours of work per student
| Throughout the teaching period | 55% |
Submission of a final team report not exceeding 30 pages, including an individual contribution statement. Approximately 30 hours of work per team (3-4 students)
| During the examination period | 25% |
Additional details
Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) 1 to 6 are assessed in the two one-hour progress tests, continuous individual assessments during the semester, and submitted reports
Last updated: 31 January 2024
Dates & times
- Semester 2
Principal coordinators Tansu Alpcan and William Shieh Mode of delivery On Campus (Parkville) Contact hours 36 hours of lectures and up to 24 hours of workshops Total time commitment 200 hours Teaching period 22 July 2024 to 20 October 2024 Last self-enrol date 2 August 2024 Census date 2 September 2024 Last date to withdraw without fail 20 September 2024 Assessment period ends 15 November 2024 Semester 2 contact information
Time commitment details
200 hours
What do these dates mean
Visit this webpage to find out about these key dates, including how they impact on:
- Your tuition fees, academic transcript and statements.
- And for Commonwealth Supported students, your:
- Student Learning Entitlement. This applies to all students enrolled in a Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP).
Subjects withdrawn after the census date (including up to the ‘last day to withdraw without fail’) count toward the Student Learning Entitlement.
Last updated: 31 January 2024
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:
Type Name Course Master of Electrical Engineering Course Master of Digital Infrastructure Engineering 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.
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: 31 January 2024