An Internet-based computer laboratory for DSP courses

In this paper, an Internet-based laboratory for an introductory digital signal processing (DSP) class is presented. The laboratory consists of five exercises covering topics like discrete- and continuous-time convolution, Z-transform, pole-zero plots, filter design and fast Fourier transform (FFT). The software includes webpages which describe the laboratory exercises and supporting Java programs. The Java programs enable visualization of complicated mathematical concepts and allow students to design active simulations of DSP systems. This virtual laboratory has the advantage that students can perform the exercises from remote locations. The paper presents the different programs which were developed for this laboratory and describes several exercises that involve interactive DSP simulations in a user-friendly object oriented environment. The software has been used at Arizona State University (USA) for a senior/graduate level digital signal processing (DSP) course. The paper presents experiences gained by using this innovative software in a class setting and provides information compiled from student evaluations.