BTE3232 – Com System Design – Oscillators

 

 

 

Hellloo BTE3232 Students,

Welcome back to UMPSA. Than you for registering into this course BTE 3232 Communication System Design Laboratory.

I hope this message finds you well and thriving in your exploration of the fascinating world of communication system design. Today, we’ll kick off with  Lab No. 1, where we embark on a journey to understand the details of the Colpitt and Hartley Oscillators – crucial components in the superheterodyne radio receivers.

Colpitt Oscillator: A Stable Foundation for RF Systems

As we venture into the heart of this laboratory exercise, let’s first look the concept of the Colpitt Oscillator. Named after its inventor Edwin Colpitts, this oscillator plays a pivotal role in generating the desired frequency for radio frequency applications, making it an indispensable element in communication systems.

As you may have seen the lab instructions, the Colpitts Oscillator takes center stage due to its ability to provide a stable and tunable output frequency – an essential characteristic for effective communication. Its configuration, comprising a transistor, capacitors, and inductors, allows it to produce a continuous oscillation that we can harness for various communication purposes.

Hartley Oscillator: A Harmonious Alternative

Now, let’s introduce the Hartley Oscillator, an alternative configuration, named after its inventor Ralph Hartley, this oscillator also contributes significantly to communication system design.

The Hartley Oscillator, like the Colpitts, is commonly employed for its stability and frequency-tuning capabilities. However, its distinctive feature lies in the use of a tapped inductor, creating a center tap that allows for enhanced coupling between the inductor and the capacitor, promoting a more efficient oscillation.

Comparing Colpitts and Hartley Oscillators:

To better understand the nuances of these two oscillators, let’s delve into a table comparison:

Feature Colpitts Oscillator Hartley Oscillator
Configuration Single inductor, single capacitor Tapped inductor, single capacitor
Tuning Range Narrow Wide
Frequency Stability Good Excellent
Amplitude Stability Moderate Good
Common Applications RF applications, low-frequency VCO RF applications, audio oscillators

Understanding the Significance of Capacitance and Inductance:

In the context of both the Colpitts and Hartley Oscillators, capacitance and inductance values are crucial parameters that significantly influence the frequency of oscillation, stability, and overall performance. As you engage in Lab 1, experiment with different values for capacitors and inductors in both oscillator configurations to observe their effects on frequency, stability, and amplitude.

This hands-on experience will not only reinforce theoretical concepts but also sharpen your skills in communication system design. Remember, a deep understanding of the Colpitts and Hartley Oscillators empowers you to engineer communication systems with precision and finesse.

Please submit your lab report by Friday March 8th, 2024 – hardcopy. And upload on Kalam.

Nurul – March 3rd, 2024

Robot Literacy 24/1

*UMP STEM Lab Robot Literacy – Introduction to Robot and Robotics can be found here.

40 teachers and school children from Kuantan, Pahang had participated in this program. Students have gone through activities including robot anatomy, actuators and sensors.

Thank you Dr Irene for coordinating the communication between STEM Lab and the participants.

 

 

Movie Review 2024/2 – Wild Life

Last night, I watched the docufilm “Wild Life.” So much so, that I hit the play button for a second round, back-to-back. That immediate decision to dive back in describe how this film’s exceptional storytelling, which seamlessly weaves together the past, present, and the awe-inspiring landscapes of Patagonia.

Directed by Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi and Jimmy Chin, “Wild Life” made its mark at the 2023 South by Southwest Film Festival and has since been enchanting audiences. The film explores the incredible journey of conservationist, philanthropist, Kris Tompkins and her husband, entrepreneur philanthropist Douglas Tompkins, taking us through decades of entrepreneurial success, personal loss, and an unparalleled commitment to preserving the planet.

From the very beginning, as Kris embarks on her journey with Doug to establish The North Face, I found myself hooked. The nostalgic connection kicked in as I reminisced about my first winter clothing purchase during a Boxing Day sale in Edinburgh—a North Face jacket that has seen many adventures since.

The narrative unfolds through various timelines, showcasing the couple’s entrepreneurial endeavors, Doug’s tragic demise in a kayak accident (marked by a poignant funeral scene), and Kris’s closure hike to the highest mountain in Patagonia. The emotional rollercoaster of loss, resilience, and passion for conservation is masterfully depicted.

For me, The North Face wasn’t just a brand; it was the gateway to a world of exploration. Watching the film, my personal connection to that iconic brand added a layer of resonance to the unfolding story. It’s a reminder of how seemingly small choices, like buying a jacket, can connect us to a larger narrative.

Kris and Doug Tompkins, the protagonists of this real-life docu, are portrayed with depth and authenticity. They bought land – 12 mil hectare and advocate it to conservation. The film’s narration by Yvon, a mutual friend, adds a personal touch, guiding us through Doug’s entrepreneurial successes—from North Face to Patagonia to ESPRIT. The storytelling skillfully celebrates their achievements while staying true to the challenges and losses they faced.

Wild Life isn’t just a documentary; it’s a testament to the indomitable human spirit. Kris’s journey after Doug’s passing is nothing short of inspiring. The film beautifully captures her dedication to conservation and the legacy they built together. Doug’s symbolic gesture of naming a mountain after Kris, affectionately known as Birdie, speaks volumes about their profound connection.

Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi and Jimmy Chin have crafted a visually stunning masterpiece. The seamless blending of archival footage, interviews, and breathtaking shots of Patagonia not only enhances the storytelling but also elevates the emotional impact of the film. It’s a testament to their directorial prowess.

Wild Life is more than a documentary; it’s a profound exploration of life’s journey, love, loss, and the enduring impact one couple can have on the world. I encourage everyone to experience this emotionally stirring and visually captivating film that not only pays tribute to Kris and Doug Tompkins but also serves as a call to action for conservation.