2026/27 Undergraduate Module Catalogue

ELEC3101 Radio-Frequency (RF) and Microwave Systems

20 Credits Class Size: 120

Module manager: Dr Tim Amsdon
Email: T.J.Amsdon@leeds.ac.uk

Taught: Semesters 1 & 2 (Sep to Jun) View Timetable

Year running 2026/27

Module replaces

ELEC2140 High Frequency Electronics and ELEC3360 RF and Microwave Engineering

This module is not approved as a discovery module

Module summary

This module focuses on building a comprehensive foundation on RF and microwave engineering for various applications such as wireless communications, radar systems and mobile communications.

Objectives

This module has the following objectives:

- To learn the theory and practice of modern radio-frequency (RF) and microwave circuit design.
- To introduce practical learning outcomes with real-world lab works and design assignments using an industrial standard software design systems.
- To provide an opportunity to experience sophisticated RF and microwave measurement equipment such as vector network analysers, spectrum analysers and RF signal generators.

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following learning outcomes:

1. Apply knowledge of mathematics, statistics, natural science and engineering principles to the solution of complex RF and microwave engineering problems. Some of the knowledge will be at the forefront of RF and microwave engineering.

2. Analyse complex RF and microwave engineering problems to reach substantiated conclusions using first principles of mathematics, statistics, natural science and engineering principles.

3. Select and apply appropriate computational and analytical techniques to model complex RF and microwave engineering problems, recognising the limitations of the techniques employed.

4. Select and evaluate technical literature and other sources of information to address complex RF and microwave engineering problems.

5. Design solutions for complex RF and microwave engineering problems that meet a combination of societal, user, business and customer needs as appropriate. This will involve consideration of applicable health and safety, diversity, inclusion, cultural, societal, environmental and commercial matters, codes of practice and industry standards.

6. Apply an integrated or systems approach to the solution of complex RF and microwave engineering problems.

7. Identify and analyse ethical concerns and make reasoned ethical choices informed by professional codes of conduct.

8. Use practical laboratory and workshop skills to investigate complex RF and microwave engineering problems.

9. Select and apply appropriate materials, equipment, engineering technologies and processes, recognising their limitations.

10. Communicate effectively on complex engineering matters with technical and non-technical audiences.

Skills Outcomes

On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following skills:

a) Application of science, mathematics and/or engineering principles
b) Problem analysis
c) Application of computational and analytical techniques
d) Searching and using technical literature
e) Design skills
f) Integrated systems approach
g) Professional ethics practice
h) Practical and workshop skills
i) Technical awareness of engineering materials, equipment, technologies, and processes
j) Communication

Syllabus

• Design of passive and active components including matching networks, amplifiers and filters
• Realisation in various transmission media including microstrip and coplanar MIC's, coaxial and rectangular waveguides
• Use of microwave CAD tools, for designing RF and microwave components for group project

Teaching Methods

Delivery type Number Length hours Student hours
Examples Class 7 1 7
Lecture 22 1 22
Practical 8 2 16
Independent online learning hours 55
Private study hours 100
Total Contact hours 45
Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) 200

Opportunities for Formative Feedback

Students studying ELEC modules will receive formative feedback in a variety of ways, including the use of self-test quizzes on Minerva, practice questions/worked examples and (where appropriate) through verbal interaction with teaching staff and/or post-graduate demonstrators.

Reading List

Check the module area in Minerva for your reading list

Last updated: 30/04/2026

Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team