Optimization of TLM schemes based on the general symmetrical condensed node

A general symmetrical condensed node (GSCN) for the transmission-line modeling (TLM) method is derived from first principles, based on the establishment of a mapping between field quantities and voltage pulses, averaging at the node centers quantities at the boundaries and differencing of Maxwell´s equations. The degrees of freedom offered by this formulation permit the development of adaptable nodes, where the mix of stubs and links can be chosen in a manner to optimize the dispersion characteristics. Results are shown confirming that the adaptable nodes can reduce substantially the dispersion and remove polarization-dependent errors