Abstract

The proliferation of computer tools for microwave analysis, design and optimization is having a profound effect on the working environment of microwave engineers. While most practitioners can use such tools after a certain period of training, many remain skeptical as to the trustworthiness of numerical results and hesitate about the limits, errors, and significance of the data generated. The key is to understand what goes on inside these tools and how they solve electromagnetic fields.

The purpose of this tutorial is

a) to provide insight into the operating principles of electromagnetic simulators, and

b) to show how these translate into their properties as engineering tools.

The characteristics of frequency- and time domain simulators based on finite element, finite difference and method of moment formulations will be presented in terms accessible to the practitioner, and the resulting performance profiles of simulators based on these methods will be demonstrated. This includes the pre- and postprocessing steps that relate geometry and material data with field information and microwave characteristics. Special emphasis will be on convergence, error control and validation using basic calibration elements. By solving a canonical set of structures whose properties are accurately known, the key aspects of the various methods and simulator types will be demonstrated. In this way, a solid foundation for user confidence and good technical judgement will be laid in a systematic manner.

The tutorial will benefit

a) Microwave engineers familiar with linear and non-linear CAD who would like to learn more about field solvers,

b) Experienced users of electromagnetic simulators who seek a better understanding of their theoretical and computational foundations,

c) Researchers familiar with computational electromagnetics who would like to learn more about the requirements, concerns and methodology of microwavepractitioners.

Specific commercial tools will only be mentioned or used for the purpose of providing typical examples. This in no way implies a commercial endorsement by the speakers.

Organizer 1

Daniel G. Swanson, Jr.
Bartley R.F. Systems
38 Water Street
Amesbury, MA 01913; USA
d.swanson@ieee.org
tel: 978-388-7600
fax: 978 -388-7077

Organizer 2

Wolfgang J.R. Hoefer
ECE Dept, University of Victoria
POB 3055
Victoria, BC, Canada V8W 3P6
whoefer@ece.uvic.ca
tel: 250-721-6030
fax: 250-721-6230

Sponsor

MTT-15 Microwave Field Theory, MTT Education Committee

Technical level

Short Course

Day/ time

Sunday, 11 June 2000, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm

Room

Hynes Convention Center Room 208

Speakers

Daniel G. Swanson, Bartley RF Systems

Wolfgang J.R. Hoefer , University of Victoria