Numerical methods for antenna problems

An account is given of some of the integral equations that can be devised for an antenna on whose surface the tangential electric intensity is prescribed. Some of the problems that can arise in numerical work from the formulation of the integral equations and their possible lack of uniqueness are described. Numerical methods of tackling integral equations are given, together with a survey of their advantages and disadvantages from the point of view of electromagnetism. Whip antennas merit separate consideration because of their special structure. There are also a few remarks on modelling surfaces by wire grids. The differing requirements of pulse and harmonic excitation are compared. Finally, the problems of error analysis are briefly mentioned.