Methods for the solution of open-boundary electromagnetic-field problems

A review of methods suitable for the solution of open-boundary field problems is given. Emphasis is placed on algorithms that can be used in conjunction with the finite-element method. The requirements for any algorithm to model an exterior region is outlined, as well as a description of some of the implications of the possible methods. It is hoped that users of such models will then appreciate the assumptions made in any method and thus its limitations, and so be able to choose the most appropriate one for a particular application.