Radio Telecommunications and Microwave Laboratory ITB: From National Defense to Student Innovation
By Syabina Er Said - Mahasiswa Teknik Dirgantara, 2020
Editor M. Naufal Hafizh, S.S.
BANDUNG, itb.ac.id — The Radio Telecommunications and Microwave Laboratory, part of the Telecommunication Engineering Research Group at the School of Electrical Engineering and Informatics (SEEI) of Institut Teknologi Bandung (ITB), continues to innovate in radar system research and development. This laboratory serves as a research hub for developing practical radar technology applicable to various fields, from weather monitoring to autonomous vehicle navigation.
Previously, this laboratory showcased radar technology for detecting aircraft at the 19th Dies Natalis SEEI Innovation Exhibition, guided by Ahmad Izzuddin, S.T., M.T., a professional lecturer in radar technology at ITB.
During the demonstration session, he showcased how radar works to detect moving objects in the air, particularly aircraft. This technology holds significant relevance in aviation, defense, and disaster mitigation. “Radar is not just about detecting objects, but also about understanding the characteristics of the received signals and processing them into accurate information,” he stated.
The radar developed in this laboratory relies on digital signal processing technology using software such as MATLAB and LabView, as well as various hardware platforms, including microprocessors, antennas, and actuators, to enhance detection accuracy. Its implementation has already been applied in various research projects and industrial applications, including navigation system development and air security.
Ahmad Izzuddin, S.T., M.T. is also involved in developing laboratory course modules related to signal processing in the Telecommunications Engineering program. One of the ongoing laboratory courses at LTRGM is ET3109 Telecommunications Laboratory V: Discrete-Time Signal Processing. This practical course introduces students to concepts such as signal filtering, sinusoidal signal generation, and digital device utilization. Students use the Digital Signal Processing (DSP) Starter Kit TMS320C6713 to process signals in real-time.
According to Yasmin Fathanah Zakiyyah (Telecommunications Engineering, 2022), the laboratory course is highly engaging as it allows students to experiment with new concepts through trial and error. “We get to see firsthand how the theories learned in class are applied in real-world scenarios. The results aren’t always predictable, but that’s where the challenge lies,” said Yasmin on Tuesday (11/3/2025).
In addition to using MATLAB for signal analysis, students also learn how to design and integrate systems using hardware components such as microcontrollers and electronic circuits. One of the most interesting experiments is signal filtering, where students observe how low-frequency signals can be attenuated while high-frequency signals pass through using various filter configurations.
Radar technology is an ever-evolving field. The ability to design, integrate, and analyze radar systems is crucial for the future of communication and remote sensing technologies. This is where laboratories like LTRGM ITB play a vital role. The hope is that LTRGM ITB will continue advancing research on AI-based radar systems and integrating radar with Internet of Things (IoT) systems for broader applications, including smart transportation and environmental monitoring.
LTRGM ITB continues to offer opportunities for students and researchers to contribute to the advancement of radar technology. “We want to ensure that the research conducted here can be widely applied, whether in navigation systems, weather monitoring, or defense technology development,” said Izzuddin. Through various experiments and research projects, this laboratory plays a key role in shaping radar experts who are ready to tackle future industry challenges and technological innovations.
Reporter: Syabina Er Said (Teknik Dirgantara, 2021)
Translator: Indira Akmalia Hendri
