Incorporation of Zeland´s IE3D in the microwave and RF classroom

Recognizing the importance of imitation and visualization in emphasizing physical understanding, especially in view of the empiric nature of microwave and RF design, we decide to use electromagnetic simulation software as a tool in teaching microwave engineering. The electromagnetic simulation software adopted is Zeland´s IE3D. IE3D is an integrated full-wave electromagnetic simulation and optimization package for the analysis and design of 3-D microstrip antennas, microwave and millimeter-wave integrated circuits, and high-speed printed circuit board. Zeland´s IE3D will allow the student to be able to try many variations to the problems posed in class. This allows the student to gain an overall understanding of the theory used to incorporate the appropriate mathematical equations. The paper illustrates some actual problems posed and solved using Zeland´s IE3D in a microwave and RF classroom.