MacFields: A computer aided introduction to vector analysis in electromagnetics

A new software for introducing vector analysis, MaceFields, has been developed and will be soon used as an introductory tool for teaching the basics of propagation and antennas in a continuing education course. The MacFields software has been designed for Macintosh computers by means of an Object Oriented Programming approach. Its aim is to illustrate the basics of the vector analysis operators, gradient, divergence and curl and their combination by allowing the student or the teacher to define fields, apply operators and visualize the results dynamically. It can be used independently or remotely controlled from other applications like HyperCard for training purposes.