Abstract:

Conventional upper level Electrical Engineering courses signals and systems and communication systems use lecture and readings to explain the theory and assign paper-based problem sets of theory and math, possibly supplemented with simulation labs, such as using Matlab. Software based simulation studies are a useful learning tool. However, computer simulations cannot model all aspects of the behavior of actual systems.

Telecommunication Instructional Modelling System (TIMS) is an advanced system for telecommunications training. TIMS is a rack and module system, in which hardware modules perform basic signal processing or communication functions on actual analog signals in hardware. For example, there are adders, multipliers, filters, samplers, and signal generators. Modules can be plugged into each of the twelve slots in the rack and then connected with other modules to create a variety of systems. Several permanent modules are located in the lower part of the rack. TIMS provides students with an easy way of prototyping signal processing and communication systems in the laboratory that helps understanding.

TIMS provides a more "real world" and hands-on experience in courses that involve signals and communication compared with only software simulations for students. Fourier series analyzer, spectrum analysis of signals, and sampling and aliasing labs were developed in signals and systems class. Amplitude modulation/demodulation, frequency modulation/demodulation, ASK generation/demodulation, BPSK generation/demodulation, FSK generation/demodulation labs were developed in engineering communication systems class.

Evaluations were based on student surveys (course evaluations) and student work (assigned homework, labs and exams) over the last seven year utilization of the TIMS system. 85% of signals and systems class students “agree” or “strongly agree” that the TIMS laboratory exercises helped them to better learn the course content. 83% “of the students agree” or “strongly agree” that laboratory exercises increased their interest in the subject. 93% of engineering communication systems students “agree” or “strongly agree” that TIMS helped them to better learn the course content. 87% of students “agree” or “strongly agree” that TIMS increased their interest in the subject.

Keywords:

Engineering, TIMS, hands-on.