The aim of this course is to give an up-to-date overview of modern wireless access technologies, including both terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks. In addition to covering the main concepts behind modern Wi-Fi systems and cellular 5G NR, we will address forthcoming topics including near-field propagation, different wavefront formations, and scheduling. The course will be supplemented with assignments centered around COMSOL Multiphysics.
Course contents
Modern technologies covered:
- IEEE Wi-Fi (principles + recent enhancements)
- 3GPP 5G NR
- DECT NR+
- NTN NB-IoT
Unique/future concepts introduced:
- Scheduling in 4G/5G cellular systems, including MU-MIMO
- Near-field communications
- Beamfocusing
- Commercial mesh networking (DECT NR+ and 5G IAB)
- Non-diffractive wavefronts (Bessel/Airy beams)
- Enhancements needed for NTN cellular technologies
Learning outcomes
After passing the course, the student is able to:
- Describe the main mechanisms and recent enhancements for Wi-Fi WLANs
- Describe the critical differences between 4G LTE and 5G NR
- Explain the changes needed for NTN support in 5G systems
- Predict and explain future evolution steps for cellular technologies
- Outline 6G trends
- Model wavefronts in COMSOL Multiphysics
Course material
Lecture notes, slides, assignments, and other complementary materials.
Completion methods
Laboratory work and exam. For FITech students, flexible completion options are provided.
More information in the Tampere University study guide.
You can get a digital badge after completing this course.