Brief description
The purpose of this module is to present an introduction to the problems encountered and the methods used in modern computer based communications systems.

Aims
This module aims to give an introduction to the area of Computer Communications and Telematics. The two main aims of the module are to:

• provide sufficient foundation for students wishing to study this thread at a higher level;
• provide sufficient experience of the subject matter to allow students to make an informed choice of their subsequent study.

Learning outcomes
Upon successful completion of this module students should have:

• an appreciation of the history and evolution of modern computer based communication systems;
• an understanding of the critical importance of standards;
• an understanding of the basic terminology and techniques of computer communications;
• a sound grasp of the problems and features of communication protocols;
• an awareness of the typical features of Local Area Networks;
• a knowledge of the common facilities available from network operators;
• an understanding of the requirement for security.

Syllabus
1. Introduction - 1 Lecture

2. History of Communications - 3 Lectures
A brief history of the development of both the technology and regulation of communication systems. Common Carriers; UK carriers: British Telecom, Mercury, Kingston and the new market entrants. Internet and its history and evolution. The UK academic network and its development, regulation and operation.

3. Telematic Applications - 3 Lectures
The range of applications, their characteristics, requirements and usage.

4. Basics of Data Communication - 4 Lectures
Analogue and digital data transmission; Synchronous and Asynchronous transmission; Parallel and Serial transmission; Modems and the PSTN, concentrators, multiplexors; Co-ax, twisted pair, fibre optic media; Speed, distance, error rates of various transmission media.

5. Local Area Networks - 2 Lectures
Bus, Ring, Star topologies; Cost of attaching devices to networks; Media access and sharing strategies.

6. Wide Area Network technologies and services - 4 Lectures
Public Switched Networks and private lines; Kilostream, Megastream and similar services; N-ISDN; Examples of WANs.

7. Standards - 2 Lectures
The needs for standards and the area they cover; Standards setting process; Standards setting bodies; BSI, ISO, ANSI, IEEE, CCITT, IAB; IETF; De facto standards.

8.An Introduction to Internet and Other protocols - 3 Lectures
ISO Model, IP, TCP, UDP, FTP, Telnet.

9. Security of Information Systems - 1 Lecture
Need for security and its cost; Risk assessment; Simple techniques; Passwords and Badge readers; Deficiencies of simple approaches; The Orange Book standard.