Advanced Coding and Modulation for Digital Communications,
ECE 259C, is the third part of the graduate-level course
sequence on coding theory and practice.
This quarter, we focus on coding techniques for bandwidth-
limited channels, with an emphasis upon coding with multi-
level/multi-phase signals, to which the term trellis-coded
modulation or TCM is often applied. This includes classical
Ungerboeck codes and pragmatic TCM, as well as codes based
upon multi-dimensional lattice partitions (coset codes),
energy-efficient constellation shaping methods, and precoding
techniques for intersymbol interference channels.
As time permits, we will also look at applications of coded-
modulation to binary partial-response channels for digital
recording (TCPR), TCM for wireless communication over fading
channels, and space-time codes for multiple antenna (MIMO)
systems.
The technical material is complementary to that taught in
Algebraic Coding, ECE 259A. It builds upon the topics covered
in Probabilistic Coding, ECE 259B, where we studied binary
coding techniques for power-limited channels, including:
convolutional codes with trellis-based decoding; concatenated
coding with turbo decoding; and low-density parity-check
(LDPC) codes with graph-based iterative decoding.
As in ECE 259B, you will experience first-hand the excitement
of approaching the limits on reliable communication that
Shannon established over 60 years ago, this time in the
context of bandwidth-limited channels. You will also see that
interesting, important, and challenging research problems in
theory and applications remain to be tackled.
You are encouraged to visit this web site regularly. You will
find homework assignments, homework solutions, and course
announcements online, as well as links to reference materials
in the electronic reserves.
Historically, most students taking the course have enjoyed
learning the theory that underlies these state-of-the-art
coding technologies. They have found value in working the
problem sets, reading key journal articles, and solidifying
their understanding of specific aspects of the subject by
researching and preparing their projects.
I hope you, too, will have a worthwhile experience.
Welcome to Advanced Coding and Modulation for Digital Communications.
-- Paul H. Siegel
