RF Principles and Applications
EE-40137
Master the Fundamentals of RF Systems: From Theory to Practical Design
In the world of modern communication, Radio Frequency (RF) systems are at the core of many technologies we use daily. From smartphones to satellite communications, understanding RF principles is essential for designing efficient systems. This course provides a comprehensive introduction to RF theory and RF system design principles, helping you navigate the fundamentals of RF circuits, hardware architecture, and more.
Whether you are an engineering student aiming to specialize in RF systems or a professional looking to expand your expertise, this course will give you the knowledge you need to confidently tackle more advanced concepts in RF Engineering.
You will explore a range of topics including electromagnetic theory, antennas, modulation theory, hardware design of RF equipment, and more, ensuring a strong foundation in both theory and practical applications. This course provide non-RF engineers with basic knowledge of the field and prepares them for more advanced courses in the RF Engineering certificate program.
Course Highlights
- RF Wave Propagation: Understand the behavior of radio waves in different environments.
- Antennas: Explore antenna types, functionalities, and their role in RF systems.
- Transmission Lines and Analysis: Dive into transmission line theory and wave/line analysis.
- Modulation Theory: Learn about primary modulation techniques and their characteristics.
- RF Amplifiers: Examine the types and classes of RF amplifiers and their roles in RF systems.
- Oscillators in RF Systems: Gain insight into RF oscillators and their characteristics.
- RF Receivers and System Links: Understand the architecture of RF receivers and perform power budget calculations for system links.
Course Benefits
- Grasp the basics of electromagnetic wave propagation and its effects on RF signals.
- Familiarize yourself with various antenna types, their modes of operation, and functionalities.
- Perform transmission line analysis and understand the role of RF transmission lines.
- Differentiate between major modulation techniques and their practical applications.
- Learn about RF amplifiers—their types, classes, and performance characteristics.
- Understand the workings of RF oscillators and their significance in RF systems.
- Explore the architecture of RF receivers and perform power budget calculations to assess system link performance.
Whether you are a seasoned professional or just starting in the field, RF Principles and Applications offers essential knowledge and skills to thrive in today’s rapidly evolving technology landscape. Here’s why this course is a must:
- Comprehensive Foundation: You will gain a thorough understanding of RF systems, covering everything from wave propagation and modulation theory to amplifiers and receivers, ensuring you have the knowledge to advance in RF engineering.
- Hands-On Learning: The course provides practical, real-world examples and exercises to help you apply RF concepts to actual design challenges.
- Industry-Relevant Skills: RF technology plays a critical role in numerous industries—from telecommunications to aerospace. Completing this course will give you the tools to contribute to cutting-edge innovations.
- Versatility in Application: The skills learned here can be applied across a variety of sectors, including telecommunications, defense, satellite communications, and wireless networking.
- Expert Instructors: You will learn from seasoned professionals with extensive experience in the RF field, ensuring you receive top-tier education.
- Step Toward Specialization: This course is a stepping stone toward more advanced RF engineering topics and specializations, helping you grow your expertise and career opportunities.
Course Details and Next Steps
- Course Typically Offered: Online during Fall and Spring quarter.
- Required Prerequisites: Basic knowledge of Electrical Engineering circuits and devices with ability to perform simple circuit analysis, or an equivalent college level Engineering degree in a professional Engineering field supported by a transcript if asked to prove. Fundamental knowledge of mathematics (College Algebra and basic Calculus) is essential.
- Next steps: Upon completion of this course, consider taking other courses in the RF Engineering Certificate.
- More information: Contact unexengr@ucsd.edu to learn more about RF Engineering and course offerings.
Who Should Take This Course?
- Engineering Students and professionals who want to gain a deeper understanding of RF systems and their design principles.
- Engineers who are new to RF circuits and systems or want to transition into the RF Engineering field.
- Technicians and technologists looking to expand their knowledge in RF systems.
- Anyone with a background in electronics, electrical engineering, or telecommunications, seeking to learn the fundamentals of RF technology.
Course Information
Course sessions
Section ID:
Class type:
This course is entirely web-based and to be completed asynchronously between the published course start and end dates. Synchronous attendance is NOT required.
You will have access to your online course on the published start date OR 1 business day after your enrollment is confirmed if you enroll on or after the published start date.
Textbooks:
No textbook required.
Policies:
- No refunds after: 4/7/2025
Schedule:
Instructor:
Tony Babaian, P.E.
Assistant Director, Engineering Programs, UCSD Extension
Tony Babaian, P.E. is state licensed Electrical Engineer. He has 23 years of higher education experience in engineering and mathematics. He has previously worked as an electrical engineer for 14 years in various companies, and is experienced in RF/microwave, avionics system design and integration, power system control and medical electronics. Mr. Babaian is also IEEE San Diego past Chapter Chair for the MTT/AP/ED/SSC/CS societies (2010-2018)
