MathWorks unveiled Release 2024a (R2024a) of the MATLAB® and Simulink® product families. R2024a introduces new functionality that streamlines the workflows of engineers and researchers working on AI and Wireless Communications systems.  

With nearly 6,000 low-earth orbit satellites (LEOs) in orbit currently and billions in private-sector funding flowing into space-related companies, interest in satellite communications is at an all-time high. The Satellite Communications Toolbox™ update in R2024a enables Satcom engineers to model scenarios and provides standards-based tools for designing, simulating and verifying satellite communications systems and links. In addition, engineers can use the toolbox to design physical layer algorithms together with RF components and ground station receivers, generate test waveforms and perform golden reference design verification.  

R2024a also includes major updates to popular MATLAB and Simulink tools, including: 

  • Computer Vision Toolbox™ provides algorithms, functions, and apps for designing and testing computer vision, 3D vision and video processing systems. The product includes the ability to design algorithms, label data and generate code for 2D and 3D vision tasks. 
  • Deep Learning Toolbox™ provides a framework for designing and implementing deep neural networks with algorithms, pre-trained models and apps. The toolbox enables support for architectures, such as transformers and importing and co-simulating PyTorch and TensorFlow models. 
  • Instrument Control Toolbox™ connects MATLAB directly to instruments such as oscilloscopes, function generators, signal analyzers, power supplies and analytical instruments. The Instrument Explorer app can be used to manage devices with IVI and VXI Plug&Play drivers without writing code. 

“As engineers face the challenges of rapidly evolving wireless systems, it's vital to employ versatile communications tools for design, simulation, and verification,” said MathWorks Director of Technical Product Marketing Dominic Viens. “R2024a’s updates will facilitate the implementation and support of next-generation communications systems.”