FIK3511 Practical Radio Communication 4.0 credits

The course consists of a number of lectures/seminars on the fundamentals of radio electronics and communication (amplifiers, transmitter/receiver design, antennas and radio propagation), tools and measurement techniques for amplifier and antenna design, tools for propagation prediction and  on  international and national spectrum regulation and traffic procedures. The focus lies with practical implementation. The participants are given the opportunity to apply their knowledge in a number of practical laboratory exercises in amplifier and antenna design,  radio propagation and traffic procedures.

Radio communication fundamentals

1. Radio electronics – amplifier, transmitter and receiver designs
2. Antennas and feeeders
3. Radio propagation, link budget

Radio Spectrum Regulation

1. International conventions, ITU, WARC, RR
2. National Regulation, PTS

Trafic procedures

Practical exercises

1. RF-power amplifier design and performance measurements
2. Antennas and feeders –tools and measurement techniques for design and impedance matching
3. Propagation on HF – prediction tools and measurements
4. Traffic procedures

After completing the course the participants should, through practical exercises, be able to explain the fundamental principles of radio propagation and the components of a radio system. 

Further, the participants should be able to design and perform measurements on simple amplifiers and antennas and be able to practically assemble a radio system consisting och transmitters, receivers and antennas. 

The participants should be able to follow the rules and regulations regarding the resource efficient use of the radio spectrum and traffic procedures.* 

After completing the course, the participants should be able to conduct experimental work in radio electronics and radio systems under their own responsibility

* Considering that our radio spectrum is a finite resource, this is a learning outcome that contributes to sustainable development

Basic courses in Electrical Circuits, Electronics

Basic courses in Circuits & Systems, Electronics

Course notes, Journal articles, Video lectures, On-line material

If the course is discontinued, students may request to be examined during the following two academic years.

• EXA1 - Examination, 4.0 credits, grading scale: P, F

Based on recommendation from KTH’s coordinator for disabilities, the examiner will decide how to adapt an examination for students with documented disability.

The examiner may apply another examination format when re-examining individual students.

The homework assignments are performed individually and are submitted for grading.

The lab exercises are performed in group, but an individual report must be submitted where the participant analyses the outcome.

An individually written report should be submitted on sustainability aspects on the use of the radio spectrum.

For a passing grade it is required that all homework is passed, and that both the lab report and the report on use of radio spectrum is passed.

Jens Zander

• All members of a group are responsible for the group's work.
• In any assessment, every student shall honestly disclose any help received and sources used.
• In an oral assessment, every student shall be able to present and answer questions about the entire assignment and solution.

After the course, the participants are provided the opportunity to take the exam for a (HAREC) amateur radio certificate necessary for conducting experimental works under their own responsability.