Table of contents

The course is connected to the following study programs

Teaching language

English

Recommended previous knowledge

MA-430-G Probability Theory and Stochastic Processes. Algebra and Calculus for Engineers, Basic programming skills, Basic knowledge of Computer Networks.

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of this course, the students should be able to:

- understand the essential theoretical tools (communications, networking protocols, optimization, signal processing and control) that are necessary to cope with Wireless Embedded Systems and Sensor Networks

- provide the basic understanding and engineering criteria about how to design, implement (programming) and deploy practical wireless sensor networks (WSNs) for different applications

- understand the advantages and limitations of different technologies used in the design and implementation of WSNs

Contents

The course covers the following topics: Introduction, motivation and applications of WSNs, node architecture, hardware platforms, operating systems, characteristics of MAC protocols for WSNs, contention-based MAC protocols, contention-free MAC protocols, routing protocols for WSNs (datacentric routing, proactive routing, on-demand routing), power management schemes, time synchronization protocols, collaborative data gathering, cooperative in-network data processing, iterative methods for distributed computation and inference (e.g. decentralized estimation, detection, control, learning), consensus and gossip self-organized algorithms, cross-layer design, application of network optimization tools, sensor network programming, node-centric programming, dynamic wireless re-programming, introduction to middleware and WSN management. Some of the concepts will be illustrated with practical examples drawn from state-of-the-art standards and implementation on real mote devices.

Teaching and learning methods

Lectures, laboratory assignments, self-study and group work.

The work load for the average student is approximately 200 hours.

Examinations

The evaluation will consist of two parts: a) final written exam of 3 hours (60 %), b) Portfolio with homework and laboratory assignments (40 %). Graded assessment. Information about the portfolio will be given in LMS at the startup of the course.

Student evaluation

The person responsible for the course decides, in cooperation with student representative, the form of student evaluation and whether the course is to have a midway or end of course evaluation in accordance with the quality system for education, chapter 4.1.

Reduction of Credits

This course’s contents overlap with the following courses. A reduction of credits will occur if one of these courses is taken in addition:

Course Reduction of Credits
IKT432 – Wireless Embedded Systems and Sensor Networks. 5
Last updated from FS (Felles studentsystem) Oct. 15, 2026 8:23:28 AM