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  • 8:37 PM, Thursday, 24 Jul 2025

Department of Avionics

The laboratories/research facilities are established under Department of Avionics Engineering. Various experimental setups are developed in these labs to crater to the need of undergraduate and post graduate programs. In addition, several research facilities are also developed to support the research activities under the Department

 

 

Soldering and Wiring Lab

The Soldering and Wiring Lab provides hands-on training to B.Tech students in essential electronics skills, focusing on soldering techniques, wire harnessing, and circuit assembly. Students are trained to solder various types of components on PCB to build functional circuits. Basic training on designing and implementation of an electrical power distribution system, covering different aspects like the selection of components, sizing of conductors etc. is imparted in this lab. In general, this lab equips the students with practical knowledge required for building reliable electronic systems used in engineering projects.

 

 

Control Systems Lab

Overview

An essential part of the engineering curriculum at IIST is the Control Systems Lab, which focuses on the real-world implementation of control theory and systems engineering. Students can gain practical experience in building, evaluating, and implementing control systems in this lab. Control systems are essential in many fields, such as industrial automation, robotics, and aerospace.

Goals

The Control Systems Laboratory's main goals are to:

  • Know Control Theory: Introduce pupils to important ideas including feedback, stability, and control algorithms.
  • Practical Implementation: Provide students with the tools—hardware and software—to design and test control systems.
  • Analyze system responses and validate theoretical models through experimentation.
  • Research and Development: Promote creativity and the ability to solve problems in practical contexts.

Tools and Equipment:

The laboratory is furnished with an array of instruments and technologies, comprising:

  • Simulation software: Programs for modeling and simulating control systems, such as MATLAB and Simulink.
  • Microcontrollers: Development boards used to develop embedded control systems, such as Arduino and Raspberry Pi.
  • Actuators and sensors are devices that carry out control actions and measure system variables.
  • Systems for gathering and evaluating experimental data are known as data acquisition systems.

Major equipments in this lab includes

  • Inverted pendulum.
  • Double inverted pendulum
  • Magnetic levitation
  • Servo Trainer kit
  • Precision servo system
  • 3D Gyro
  • Hexapod
  • Unmanned Arial Vehicle systems
  • Couple tank systems
  • Active mass spring suspension systems
  • Twin rotor MIMO systems
  • Torsional plant
  • Rectilinear Plant

 

 

Systems and Networks Lab

The Systems and Networks Lab (SysNet Lab) at the Department of Avionics, Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology, is a research laboratory specializing in networked systems as well as next-generation computer networks. The lab’s key research areas include Mobile Ad-hoc Networks (MANETs), Wireless Mesh Networks (WMNs), Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs), Delay Tolerant Networks (DTNs), Software Defined Networks (SDNs), Internet of Things (IoT), satellite networking, Satellite Edge Computing (SEC), 5G/6G satellite integration, 5G/6G testbed development, CubeSat development, Space-Based Hosting Service (SBHS), quantum computing, Brain-Computer Interface (BCI), complex networks, and graph signal processing..

5G/6G Satellite Experiments

The 5G testbed is based on the SrSRAN and Open5GS framework and focuses on the development and integration of 5G/6G technologies. Further, simulation testbed enables experimentation with low-latency communications, as well as testing satellite-terrestrial network integration, handover, and edge computing capabilities.

Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) testbed

The BCI testbed creates BCI datasets for various Indian languages, utilizing OpenBCI hardware. These datasets are used for research in multilingual BCI systems and the development of machine learning and deep learning algorithms that recognize and process brain signals for neuromuscular disorders.

Space-Based Hosting Service (SBHS) hardware and software testbed

The SBHS testbeds provide a platform for deploying and testing databases on satellite and high-altitude balloon platforms. This enables researchers to explore novel architectures and communication protocols for space-based hosting services and edge computing services for remote and rural regions of the world.

Wireless Mesh Network testbed

Additionally, the lab has set up the Wireless Mesh Network (WMN) testbed, "IIST MeshNet," covering D2 and D4, to study the behavior of wireless multihop networks. SDN capabilities have been integrated into the mesh routers for granular network control and enhanced performance analysis.

The lab is equipped with a variety of hardware and software tools, including:

Hardware

  • SrSRAN-based 5G testbed
  • OpenBCI board-based BCI testbed
  • CubeSat/balloon-based SBHS testbed
  • Wireless Sensor Network testbeds and platforms
  • Wireless Mesh Network testbeds
  • Software Defined Network testbed
  • Alix3d3 board-based wireless mesh routers
  • Inforce IFC 6410 board-based wireless router platform
  • Raspberry Pi boards
  • Intel Galileo GEN 2 for IoT applications
  • IRIS motes and sensors

 

 

Software

  • NetSim Simulator
  • Matlab, Simulink, KiCad
  • Wireless Sensor Network testbeds and platforms
  • Satellite network simulator
  • Network Simulator Software (e.g., Ns-2, Ns-3, GloMoSim, Stanford Enhanced GloMoSim, OMNET++)
  • Sensor Simulator Software (e.g., MoteView, MoteConfig, TinyOS)
  • Mesh Network Simulator Software (e.g., Voyage Linux OS, MadWiFi Driver, OLSR/DSR/AODV routing protocols)
  • Urban Delay Tolerant Network Simulator (UDTNSim v0.1), developed in-house for DTN simulations.

 

 

Power Electronics Instruction Lab

The Advanced Power Electronics Lab at the Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST) provides students with a platform to explore and gain hands-on experience with the latest developments in power electronics. The lab offers students an opportunity to engage in practical experiments, such as designing and implementing key power converter topologies like Buck, Boost, Flyback. By working in this advanced lab, students at IIST are equipped with the technical skills, practical knowledge, and innovative thinking required to succeed in this dynamic industry.

 

 

E-CAD Lab

E-CAD Lab E-CAD lab in the department that deals with computed aided design of various analog circuit and digital circuits, PCB design tools, Network design tools and simulation software such as MATLAB, Verilog, Cad software such as vivado, LT spice etc. Students are familiarized with various state of the art software packages required for basic and advanced circuit design.

This lab is being utilized by UG/PG/Projects students.

 

 

DSP VLSI Design Research Lab

This research lab focusses on designing and implementing efficient hardware accelerators for signal/image processing techniques and deploying it for real time applications. Scholars who are doing research in VLSI signal processing are utilizing this lab for the research purpose which is furnished with most of the latest Digital IC design tools, FPGA design tools and related software required for simulations and comparisons.

Major equipments

  • IRNSS Simulator,
  • VCK190 Deep Learning Unit Board,
  • 3 VCK 5000 data centre acceleration versal card and software,
  • FPGA boards for signal processing applications,
  • High end PCs and Workstations.

 

 

VLSI Design Lab

This lab was established to support the Post Graduate program VLSI and Microsystems introduced in the year 2013 and research activities in the areas of VLSI. Modelling, design and simulation tools for MEMS devices, Micro/Nanoelectronics devices and systems. (High end workstations, Coventorware and MEMS+ from Coventor, Silvaco ATLAS and ATHENA TCAD,Sentaures TCAD 3D Process and Device TCAD from Synopsis,COMSOL Multiphysics etc.)

Major equipments

    Analog and Digital IC design Tools from Cadence, Synopsys, Mentor Graphics, FPGA design tools and boards, MEMS software, TCAD software, Logic Analyzer, High end PCs.

 

 

Digital Signal Processing Lab

Digital Signal Processing Lab is developed for UG, PG and Research Students to carry out experiments in 1D/2D signal processing to perform both simulation and real time signal processing task.

Major equipments

  • DSP Boards and related software
  • FPGA boards and related software
  • CRO/Signal Generators
  • MATLAB
  • Jetson Nano Boards and related software
  • Desktop computers.

 

 

Digital Electronics and Microprocessor Lab

Digital electronics and Microprocessor Lab is developed for UG, and PG to carry out hands on experiments in Digital circuits and to learn C programs to be program in microprocessor/microcontroller boards to get knowledge in microprocessor/microcontroller architecture, programming and its applications.

Major equipments

  • Digital Trainer Kits
  • Microprocessors, Microcontroller evaluation Boards with Peripherals
  • Desktop PCS

 

 

Analog Electronics Circuits Lab

Analog electronics form the backbone of various modern electronic devices and systems. For undergraduate engineering students, particularly those pursuing degrees in Electronics Engineering (EEE) or related fields, a solid understanding of analog electronics is crucial. The Analog Electronics Lab provides a hands-on learning experience that complements theoretical knowledge, fostering a deeper understanding of the subject. The lab enables students to apply theoretical concepts learned in lectures. Students gain proficiency in using various laboratory instruments such as oscilloscopes, function generators, multimeters, and power supplies. They learn to design, build, and test analog circuits, fostering skills in troubleshooting and problem-solving.

Existing Hardware Tools

  • Digital Oscilloscopes
  • Power Supplies
  • Waveform Generators
  • Multimeters
  • TI Analog Lab Experiment kit

 

 

RF and Microwave Lab

RF and Microwave Lab of the department is equipped with various facilities to perform both classical and modern experiments. Apart from Waveguide test-bench based experiments, facilities like transmission line trainer kit, antenna radiation pattern measurement set up, characterization of microwave network and antennas using spectrum and network analyzer are existing in this lab. The lab is also equipped with various advanced electromagnetic CAD softwares like HFSS, CST, Feko, ADS etc. extremely useful for state of the art research in this domain.

Major facilities of this lab includes:

  • Microwave Test Bench Set-up
  • Transmission Line Trainer Kit
  • Spectrum Analyzer
  • Vector Network Analyzer
  • Microwave Signal Generator
  • Antenna Measurement Set-up
  • EM Simulator: HFSS, CST, FEKO, ADS
  • PCB Prototyping Machine

 

 

Instrumentation and Measurement Lab

Instrumentation and Measurement Laboratory is well-equipped for research and education in the field of sensors and associated measurement schemes, analog signal processing and virtual, bio and digital instrumentation. It houses extensive experimental and simulation facilities (important facilities are given below) for instrumentation-related laboratory courses of undergraduate (avionics and engineering physics) students of IIST. Research projects related to design and implementation and analysis of magnetic sensors and interface electronics, direct-digitizers, advanced measurement circuits, biomedical electronics and embedded systems are also carried out in this laboratory

Some of the instruments present in the lab are listed below:

  • Flow and Pressure Process Rig
  • Pressure Process Rig
  • Dead weight Tester
  • Temperature Calibrator
  • Oscilloscope (Mixed Signal, Digital Storage, Analog), Power Supplies (3-channel)
  • Function generator (Arbitrary/Programmable, Multi-channel)
  • High resolution (5.5 digit and 6.5 digit) Multimeters
  • Data Acquisition kits for Virtual Instrumentation using LABVIEW
  • Gauss Meter
  • LCR Meter
  • Instrumentation Modules & Transducer kits (optical, temperature, displacement, force, etc.)
  • Microcontroller and Embedded kits for Instrumentation

 

 

Navigation System and Sensors Lab

This lab was setup to provide hands-on training in the field of navigation Systems and sensors. Various experiments like calibration of inertial sensors such as servo accelerometers, MEMS accelerometers, Dynamically Tuned Gyroscopes, MEMS gyroscopes are performed in the lab. Navigation system level tests such as rate test, multi-position test, all attitude test, Hardware in loop tests are planned to be carried out in this lab. In addition, provision for carrying out the simulation of inertial navigation system are provided to impart training on different navigation algorithms in different navigation frames. Major equipments such as servo accelerometer check-out system, DTG check-out system, 2-axis Angular Motion Simulation set up, 3-axis dividing head setup are available in the lab. Further, Navigation System packages which are used in the PSLV, GSLV mark-3 are available for demonstration in the lab. Significantly, the lab has one of the first few deployed IRNSS receivers across the country, and two portable IRNSS receivers and ISRO-SAC in-house developed IRNSS simulator. This gives focuss on satellite navigation receiver design for GPS, IRNSS(NAVIC) etc.

 

 

Digital Communication Lab

The major objectives of the Digital Communication Lab are to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of fundamental and advanced communication concepts through hands-on experimentation. For undergraduate students, the lab aims to impart practical knowledge of modulation and demodulation techniques using kits and breadboards, bridging the gap between theory and practice. For postgraduate students, the focus is on exploring and analyzing advanced 4G communication systems and other modern technologies. The lab also seeks to develop practical skills in designing, implementing, and testing communication systems using sophisticated tools and software such as MATLAB, Python, and SDR/USRP. Expected outcomes include enhanced understanding of communication principles, proficiency in advanced tools and technologies, valuable research contributions in signal processing and radar systems, and practical experience that prepares students for careers in the communications field.

Major Equipment:

  • Spectrum Analyzer (9kHz - 18GHz)
  • Vector Signal Generator (9kHz – 3.2GHz)
  • Signal Generator (9kHz – 3.2GHz)
  • Signal Analyzer (9kHz – 3.6GHz)
  • Network Analyzer (9kHz – 3.2GHz)
  • Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR)
  • Software Defined Radio (SDR) and Universal Software Radio Peripheral (USRP)
  • NI Emona DATEx (Data Acquisition and Test Equipment)

These devices enable comprehensive exploration of modulation and demodulation techniques, as well as advanced studies in 4G communication systems, thereby enriching the lab's research and educational programs.

Existing Software Tools:

  • Matlab
  • Python

 

 

Advanced Wireless Communication Research Lab

The Advanced Wireless Communication Laboratory specializes in conducting research in the broad area of wireless communications, with a focus on signal processing within the physical layer. The primary research activities include:

  • Signal Processing for Wireless Communication Systems
  • Cognitive Radio/Dynamic Resource Allocation
  • Full-Duplex Radio/Hardware-Based Modeling and Signal Processing Techniques
  • Software Radio/USRP Experimental Implementation
  • Hybrid Beamforming for mmWave Communication
  • OFDM/OTFS System for Joint Radar and Communication System
  • MIMO OFDM System – Channel Estimation and Decoding
  • Radar Signal Processing

 

 

This lab is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and development tools designed for real-time signal processing and communication. The lab's comprehensive setup enables advanced research and development, fostering innovations that push the boundaries of current wireless communication technology.

  • Universal Software Radio Peripheral Transceivers (USRP N210) (Carrier frequency up to 6GHz and bandwidth of 20 MHz)
  • Daughter Cards (UBX 40, LFTX (DC-30MHz), LFRX (DC-30MHz))
  • OCTOCLOCK-G (8-channel clock distribution module)
  • GPS Antenna
  • VERT400 Antenna (144MHz, 400MHz, 1200MHz)
  • Log Periodic Antenna (400MHz-1GHz, 850 MHz-6.5GHz)
  • ADALM PLUTO Analog Device SDR (325MHz-3.8GHz)
  • PXB Baseband Generator and Channel Emulator N5106A
  • EXA Spectrum Analyzer (26.5GHz)
  • MXG Vector Signal Generator (6GHz)
  • RF Development Tool-AD9364 Software Development Board (AD-FMCOMMS4-EBZ)
  • Xilinx Zynq-7000 All Programmable ZC706 Evaluation SoC

 

 

Existing Software Tools:

  • Matlab Software
  • Agilent SystemVue Software
  • Agilent VSA Software

 

 

Major Objectives/Outcomes of the Lab:

The Advanced Wireless Communication Laboratory specializes in cutting-edge research in wireless communications, emphasizing signal processing within the physical layer. Its primary research activities span several critical areas, including Signal Processing for Wireless Communication Systems, which focuses on enhancing the efficiency and performance of wireless networks. The lab also explores Cognitive Radio and Dynamic Resource Allocation, which aim to optimize the use of available spectrum. Additionally, the team works on Full-Duplex Radio and Hardware-Based Modeling and Signal Processing Techniques, seeking to enable simultaneous transmission and reception on the same frequency. Software Radio and USRP Experimental Implementation are also key areas of focus, facilitating flexible and reconfigurable communication systems. The lab's research in Hybrid Beamforming for mmWave Communication aims to improve high-frequency communication capabilities, while their work on OFDM/OTFS Systems seeks to integrate radar and communication functions. Furthermore, the lab delves into MIMO OFDM Systems, focusing on Channel Estimation and Decoding, and advances in Radar Signal Processing to enhance the accuracy and reliability of radar systems.

Computer Vision and Virtual Reality Lab

The Department of Avionics has developed this lab for UG, PG, and research graduate students. This lab consists of ten entry-level workstations, a thermal imaging camera, stereo vision camera, and a 4 GigE vision high-speed camera for various image processing related activities. The lab uses both open-source platforms as well as licensed application software such as MATLAB and Visual Studio Professional 2012 for various lab-related activities. Students use this facility for labs in courses like Digital Image Processing, Video Processing, Pattern Recognition, and Computer Vision. UG and PG students also use this facility to do their final year projects in various areas such as image retrieval, speech processing, computer vision, image and video processing, soft computing, and machine learning.

Our lab is actively engaged in various research projects utilizing advanced machine learning techniques. Some of the key areas of focus include:

Epileptic Seizure Detection: Our research involves the development of deep learning models for the detection of epileptic seizures through time series analysis. By employing spatial modeling techniques using graph neural networks, we aim to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of seizure detection, contributing to improved patient outcomes.

The Department of Avionics is establishing a center of excellence in Virtual Reality for various space and scientific applications. The development is planned in three phases. The first phase consists of a desktop VR lab, which includes a high-end workstation with the latest graphic capabilities, 3D monitors, 3D vision-pro glasses, and application software such as Vizard, Blender, Google Sketch, Adobe Master Suite collection, 3ds Max, and Maya. The facility will be further upgraded by creating an immersive studio-type Virtual Reality center in phases 2 and 3. The proposed facility will be supported by advanced haptic devices, sensors, and force feedback systems for various real-life applications such as navigation, fly-throughs, etc. Some of the objectives for establishing the center of excellence in Virtual Reality at the Department of Avionics, IIST Trivandrum, are as follows:

  • Research in Space Applications
  • Planetary Exploration
  • Indigenous Software Development
  • Design of VR Test Bed Prototype
  • Virtual Prototyping of Space Shuttle
  • Virtual Walk/Fly-through

General Research Areas:

Disaster modeling and simulation, 3D VR visualization of compounds and chemicals for theoretical and nonlinear dynamical studies. Developing VR teaching simulations for better understanding of concepts in different key subjects of Avionics, aerospace, physical science, and humanities.

Every year, UG/PG students carry out their internship projects and B.Tech projects with existing facilities. Work is underway to procure several Virtual Reality peripherals to augment the existing Desktop Virtual Reality setup. These devices will be capable of being used with the Virtual Reality software development toolkit, WorldViz Vizard. They will be configured to seamlessly integrate with the existing setup and can be driven from the workstations present in the lab. As of now, one set of Virtual Reality data gloves for interaction with objects in the virtual world has been procured and added to existing facilities.

 

 

Communication Networks Lab

Communication Networks Lab (ComNet Lab) is a research laboratory in the Department of Avionics at the Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology. The lab focuses on research in the broad area of communication networks, with major research areas including mathematical performance analysis, optimization, and the design of communication and computing algorithms.

Core competencies include:

  • Probabilistic modelling of systems, signals, and data
  • Stochastic control and reinforcement learning
  • Optimization techniques
  • Data analysis
  • Mathematical software development

The research lab has enabled forty-one B.Tech and thirteen M.Tech students to complete their projects. Currently, one B.Tech, two M.Tech, and five PhD students are actively engaged in research in areas such as network design for time-slotted networks, network design for semantic communication, performance optimization of communication networks, and optimal control and co-design of networked control systems.

The ComNet Lab has contributed to around thirty-two conference publications in prestigious conferences in the area of communication systems, including COMSNETS, NCC, WiOpt, and ICC. Additionally, eleven journal publications have been produced by the lab's researchers in IEEE Transactions on Information Theory, IEEE Communications Letters, IEEE Journal on Selected Areas in Communications, IEEE Networking Letters, and IEEE Transactions on Instrumentation and Measurement. The members of the lab and the principal investigator have been involved in multiple projects.

Following are the completed Projects:

  • IIST-Fasttrack project (2018-2020 Completed) - RapidMAC: Development of a rapid prototyping software for multiple access protocols
  • DST-SERB Early Career Research Grant (2019-2022 Completed) - Wireless ReLoD - Wireless Reliable, Low Latency Networks for IIoT and Fieldbus replacement
  • Space and High Altitude Platforms based emerging Internet of Things - (co-PI) (completed)
  • Mechatronic design of adult-sized Humanoid Robot - (co-PI) (completed)
  • Contributions to the DTDI-General purpose humanoid study report in the area of reinforcement learning for robotics. (completed)
  • Development of software for ion-current modelling of ARIS payload. (completed)
  • Development of a software prototype & simulator for multi-object tracking radar - a software prototype was developed as a part of a collaboration with SDSC-SHAR. (completed)

Ongoing Projects:

  • KSCSTE (co-PI) - Remote monitoring (TSCH) for health applications (ongoing)
  • 5G use case labs projects (co-PI) (ongoing)
  • IIT Palakkad IPTIF graduate student support grant (ongoing)
  • Wireless networked system design and performance evaluation for crew modules for Indian human space missions (ongoing)

 

 

ASIC Design and Characterization Lab

The ASIC Design and Characterization Lab focuses its research on designing and developing ICs for analog, mixed-signal, and RF applications. We attempt to solve analog/RF problems in various applications and aim to develop solutions that advance the frontiers of IC design technology. This lab is also actively engaged in the mission to indigenize IC designs in India, in collaboration with different centers of research under the Department of Space, India. In addition to work on IC design, we also focus on MMICs and board-level RF designs for specific applications. This lab contributes to the Small Spacecraft and Payloads Centre (SSPACE) of IIST by developing electronic modules and boards for different payloads and nanosatellites.

Major facilities of this lab include:

Design Facilities

High-performance computers and software like Cadence, Mentor Graphics, Synopsys, and ADS for the design and verification of analog, mixed-signal, and RF ICs.

Millimeter-wave IC Testing Equipment

  • Probe station (with MEMS group) upgraded to RF probe station with probing equipment up to 40 GHz
  • Vector Signal Generator up to 44 GHz with modulation bandwidths up to 120 MHz
  • Vector Network Analyzer (with RF & Microwave group) up to 40 GHz
  • Vector Signal Analyzer with noise head (with RF & Microwave group) up to 40 GHz
  • Analog Signal Generator (with RF & Microwave group) up to 40 GHz

Analog & Mixed-Signal Testing Equipment

  • NI Modular testing equipment (10-slot chassis)
  • DC power supplies
  • Multi-function test setup - Moku:Lab by Liquid Instruments
  • Digital Storage Oscilloscope up to 6 GHz (20 Gsa/s, 10-bit ADC)

 

 

IIST - 5G Use Cases Lab

5G Use Cases Lab is under the “100 5G Use Cases Labs Initiative" of Government of India. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi formally awarded the 5G Use Cases Lab to IIST during the inauguration of Indian Mobile Congress 2023 (IMC-2023) in New Delhi. This initiative aims to foster expertise and active participation in 5G and subsequent technologies among students, educators, researchers, and the startup ecosystem. 5G Use Cases Labs program will be overseen by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Government of India.

The state-of-the-art 5G Use Cases Labs will be equipped with 5G cellular infrastructure (mid-band) SA, 5G SIMs, Dongles, IoT Gateway, Router, Application Server, and a comprehensive management dashboard. It consists of compact 5G networks and use case devices such as drones, AR-VR test kit, startup testing kit, to develop use case applications related to education, health, agriculture and other sectors. The lab can act as testing cum breeding grounds for upskilling innovations such as students and startups and aid in developing use case applications according to India’s needs.

Engineering institutions in and around south India can collaborate with IIST in order to utilise the 5G Use Cases Labs for research and education. The 5G use cases labs also promise to seamlessly integrate IIST into the expansive global digital development ecosystem. This can help to design, develop and deploy 5G & 6G technologies and also will enable high-end research in 5G and upcoming 6G technologies. This allows faculty and students to participate in international collaborations, joint research projects, and publications. It also opens avenues for partnerships with industry leaders, research institutions, and startups worldwide.

Students will gain hands-on experience with advanced 5G infrastructure, essential for understanding and developing 5G and future 6G technologies. This enhances their skills in areas like network deployment, data management, IoT, and AR/VR applications, making them highly employable in the tech-driven job market. This enables students to launch startup ventures focused on 5G technologies, contributing to India’s growing startup ecosystem.

 

 

Chemisens Lab

The lab's work is divided into two primary research areas: gas sensors and biosensors.
In biosensor research, the focus is on developing different methods to isolate extracellular vesicles (EVs) from biofluids and efficiently detect EV-derived biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis of lung, pancreatic, and ovarian cancer. Additionally, it focuses on creating reliable breath sensors to diagnose various cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. Gas sensor research emphasizes the design, development, and characterization of sensors for detecting a variety of hazardous and toxic gases, including flammable gases (hydrogen, methane) and poisonous gases (ammonia, carbon monoxide). The research also extends to the detection of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in breath for potential medical diagnostics. The facility is equipped with a gas calibration facility that can handle eleven gases, including explosive, toxic, and volatile compounds. Major equipment includes a gas calibration system, spectrometer, electrochemical workstation, picoliter dispensing unit, thermal evaporation system, and microwave synthesizer. The lab is particularly focused on the design and characterization of gas sensors, with specific applications in space missions.

 

 

Power Electronics and Distributed Energy System Research Lab (PEDS)

The Power Electronics and Distributed Energy System Research Laboratory focuses on advancing the state of the art in high-power converter designs, including Dual Active Bridge (DAB) converters, Solid State Transformer and Micro Grid Systems etc. The lab’s work aims to improve the efficiency, reliability, and performance of power conversion systems for applications in renewable energy, electric vehicles, micro grids and high-power industrial systems.

The research work explores:

  • High-Power Converter Design: Focuses on developing robust and scalable converter systems for industrial and utility-scale applications.
  • Dual Active Bridge Converter (DAB) Design: Investigates the efficiency, control, and performance of DAB converters for high-power and bidirectional energy transfer applications.
  • High-Frequency Converter Design: Examines the impact of high-frequency switching in converters for reducing system size, improving power density, and enhancing the dynamic response.
  • Solid State Transformer: A solid-state transformer (SST) is an advanced type of transformer that uses solid-state electronics instead of traditional magnetic components to transfer power and manage voltage levels. SSTs are gaining traction due to their advantages over conventional transformers, particularly in terms of efficiency, size, and versatility.

 

 

Power Electronics Research Lab

The Power Electronics Laboratory of the Avionics Department is well-equipped for performing basic as well as advanced experiments in Power Electronics and Drives. Equipment and devices required for conducting experiments on open-loop and closed-loop control of AC-DC, DC-DC, DC-AC, and AC-AC converters are available in this laboratory. In addition, facilities are available for performing advanced experiments on DC drives, 3-phase AC drives, multiphase AC drives (split phase and 5-phase), photovoltaic systems, solid-state transformers, microgrids, and more. The control schemes are implemented in custom-built digital platforms such as FPGAs, Digital Signal Controllers, and Microcontrollers.

Some of the equipment includes:

  • Electronic Loads - 4 Channels up to 600V/60A
  • DC power supplies - 60V/38 Amps
  • Solar Array Simulator – Agilent E4360A
  • dSPACE Advanced Control Education Kit
  • 8-channel mixed signal oscilloscope with voltage and current probes - Yokogawa
  • Motor control trainers - FEEDBACK
  • Five-phase open-end winding induction motors
  • Six-phase (split phase) open-end winding induction motors (10 kW)
  • Six-phase wound rotor open-end winding synchronous motors (3 kW)
  • DC dynamometers (13 kW)
  • Configurable inverter modules (600 VDC, 75 Amps)

 

 

Power Electronics PG Lab

This lab houses advanced digital controllers and processing platforms to control power converters. The lab contains a full spectrum of digital controllers, including ARM-based microcontrollers, custom-made FPGAs, and custom Digital signal controller boards specifically adapted for power electronics and advanced converter applications. The systems developed here can interfacing with high-performance converters such as multi-level converters, multi-phase converters for motor drives, grid-connected converters, and high frequency AC link converters. The lab is also used as an instruction lab for M.Tech Power Electronics and M.Tech Control System programs. This laboratory is equipped with state-of-the-art digital controllers and processing platforms designed for precise control of power converters. It features a comprehensive array of digital controllers, including ARM-based microcontrollers, custom FPGAs, and specialized digital signal controller boards tailored for power electronics and advanced converter applications. Our systems are capable of interfacing seamlessly with high-performance converters, such as multi-level converters, multi-phase converters for motor drives, grid-connected converters, and high-frequency AC link converters. Additionally, the lab serves as an instructional facility for M.Tech programs in Power Electronics and Control Systems.

 

 

Research Laboratories for MEMS, Microelectronics Design, Fabrication, and Characterization

Research in the area of Microsystems/Microelectronics (Semiconductor device and technology) demands good in-house design, fabrication and characterization labs. The following three major laboratories for design, fabrication and characterization with funding from IIST as well through sponsored research projects have been established. With this our PG and research students could get hands –on experience in device development.

These research labs have helped in supporting an R&D ecosystem in Microelectromechanical Systems (MEMS)/ Micro/Nano electronics and sensors at IIST.

In addition to collaborations with academia, we also have collaborations with ISRO centres like IISU, SCL etc. IIST is one of the “Collaborating institutes” with CeNSE IISc for MeitY’s INUP Idea to Innovation program.

The laboratories and research facilities would eventually evolve to an R&D Centre for NEMS & Opto/Nanoelectronics (NEMO) to promote research and technology development activities in the following area.

1. NEMS & Microelectronics Characterization and Sensor Systems Laboratories

  • NEMS & Microelectronics characterization and NEMS Sensor Systems laboratories have been established with characterization/testing equipments with funding support from institute and research projects.
  • Experimental setups established for Electrical characterization (I-V, C-V, etc. ) of Micro/Nanoelectronics devices, NEMS/MEMS using DC Probe station, semiconductor analyzers, SMUs,Digital Multimeter, DSO etc.
  • Experimental setups established for Mechanical and electromechanical Characterization thin films, MEMS/NEMS devices VLSI and NEMS sensor systems- Nanoindentation, Microsystem Analyzer, Laser Doppler Vibrometry (LDV), Electrodynamic shaker, semiautomatic force tester/4-point /3-point bending test setup etc.
  • Customized experimental setups for electromechanical characterization of MEMS nanomechanical sensors, sensor testing setup for gas and environmental sensing using nanomechanical sensors etc.

2. VLSI & Microsystems Design Lab

Microsystems design facility is equipped with modelling, design and simulation tools for MEMS devices, Micro/Nanoelectronics devices and systems. (High end workstations, Coventorware and MEMS+ from Coventor, Sentaures TCAD 3D Process and Device TCAD from Synopsis, COMSOL Multiphysics etc.)

3. MEMS an NanoFAB (Microfabrication laboratory)-Phase I

MEMS/Micro/nanofabrication facility is for 4” silicon wafer substrates with upgradability for 6” wafers. Phase-1 of MEMS & NanoFAB has been established with the major equipment’s for MEMS and microfabrication processes with funding support from institute and research projects. Deposition tools-DC/RF/Pulse DC sputtering, ICPCVD, Parylene CVD Photolithography-Double Side Mask aligner, Oxygen Plasma RIE, Anneal Tools-2D material anneal furnace, vacuum anneal etc., and Class-1000 cleanroom are part of this Phase -I

 

 

Advanced Microwave Lab

Advanced Microwave Laboratory is a research lab mainly for MTech and PhD students in a wide area of reconfigurable & multifunctional antennas, satellite/ground station antennas, metamaterial/ metasurface-inspired antennas, antennas for smart phone/cellular communications, radar antennas, wireless power transfer, and energy harvesting, etc. The lab provides testing facilities for the fabricated antennas using Vector Network Analyzer (VNA), Spectrum analyzers, as well as an anechoic chamber for measurement purposes.

Advanced Microwave Lab provides facilities such as:

  • Vector Network Analyzer
    • Specifications: Agilent Technologies PNA Network Analyzer (N5224A)
    • Frequency: 10 MHz-43.5 GHz
  • Spectrum Analyzer
    • Specifications: Agilent Technologies EXA Signal Analyzer (N9010A)
    • Frequency: 10 Hz-44 GHz
  • Signal Generator
    • Specifications: Agilent Technologies PSG Analog Signal Generator (E8257D)
    • Frequency: 250 KHz-40 GHz
  • Anechoic Chamber
    • Technical Specification: Pyramid absorbers - Polyurethane foam-based (foam density: 23 to 26 per cubic meter)
    • Frequency of operation: 0.8 to 40 GHz

Measurement Setup:

  • RF Anechoic Chamber
  • VNA Instrument
  • Testing Cables
  • Rotatory 1 Axis Transmitter Positioner System
  • 3 Axis Receiver Positioner System
  • Measurement Software - LabView-based
  • Reference Broadband Horn Antenna
  • Antenna under Test
  • PC for Interfacing

An anechoic chamber is a shielded space designed and constructed to resist electromagnetic waves and suppress the emission of electromagnetic waves to the outside world. An anechoic chamber is shielded entirely with metal and has radio wave absorbers covering the surrounding walls, ceiling, and floor. The size of the anechoic chamber and type of radio wave absorber to be used are determined by the size and purpose of the electronic equipment, wireless devices, or communication system being evaluated. RF and Microwave Pyramidal Foam absorbers are made of carbon-impregnated low-density polyurethane foam and come in various sizes and colors. The tapered structure of the pyramids transitions the radio waves from the air to the lossy carbon employed in the pyramids with minimal wave reflection.

The following measurements can be made with the setup:

  • 3D Pattern Measurement
  • 2D Pattern Measurement
  • Gain Measurement
  • S-Parameter Measurement
  • Axial Ratio Measurement

 

 

Optoelectronics and Photonics Lab

Established in 2022, the Optoelectronics and Photonics Lab of the Avionics Department specializes in advanced optical communication experiments. Our focus is on high-speed data transmission using a 1550nm wavelength laser. Our research includes the fabrication and testing of various optical components, such as PIN modulators, Mach-Zehnder modulators, beam steering devices, tunable MMI splitters, and the design of highly efficient nanocone solar cells. Notably, the beam steering device developed in our lab is the first of its kind to steer a single wavelength laser along a two-dimensional axis. Our modulators can modulate up to 23 Gbps of message signals.

Our lab is equipped with a C-band tunable laser source, an IR camera, an EDFA, photodetectors, CMOS cameras, and other essential instruments. We utilize advanced software tools such as Ansys Lumerical and Tcad Sentaurus to design semiconductor devices. Our experimental setup for optical communication experiments is built in-house, and semiconductor optical devices are designed using Lumerical and Sentaurus software and fabricated either in our clean room or through the INUP facilities available across India.

To date, we have published four international journal papers, with two more currently under peer review. As we strive to become a premier lab for optical communication experiments, we are in the final stages of acquiring an Optical Spectrum Analyzer and a high-frequency oscillator to conduct most of our experiments within the lab itself.

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