An experimental lab to enhance undergraduate electromagnetics education

Abstract

Electromagnetic field theory is a required part of the undergraduate electrical engineering curriculum. This material is taught in either one or two semester courses, encompassing concepts related to static and time-varying fields. These classes often focus on Maxwell’s equations and application of mathematical tools required for problem solving. Simulation and visualization tools are often used to enhance student understanding of field distributions and wave propagation. However, hands-on experiences have the potential to deepen understanding and emphasize connections between theory and real-world applications. As RF and microwave equipment is expensive, it is difficult to sustainably outfit laboratories for large undergraduate classes. In this paper, we describe a low-cost, hands-on experimental lab that involves students designing and implementing an antenna. This lab is designed to reinforce concepts related to wave propagation. This work adds to the few papers in the literature reporting incorporation of innovative and low-cost experiments into the undergraduate electromagnetics curriculum.