A time-domain virtual electromagnetics laboratory for microwave engineering education

Electrical-engineering students look upon electromagnetic-field theory as a difficult, abstract, and highly mathematical subject. The use of computer modeling and simulation is helpful in making the subject matter more accessible to students in electromagnetics and microwaves courses. In this paper, a complimentary two-dimensional time-domain field simulation software tool (MEFiSTo-2D Classic) is used to illustrate fundamental electromagnetic concepts that are traditionally described by mathematical formulas. The user-friendly interactive features and field animation capabilities of this software transform abstract electromagnetic-field theory into realistic images on the screen. Once the fundamental modeling concepts have been comprehended, students can create advanced structures to explore the subject matter further.