Field dynamics in a parallel-plate simulator

Establishing the properties of the excitation field is critical in the process of evaluating the electromagnetic susceptibility of a piece of equipment. This paper examines the electric and magnetic fields generated in and around a large parallel plate simulator, both numerically using the numerical electromagnetic code (NEC), and experimentally in an effort to better understand the field dynamics inherent to the system. Comparison of the computed and measured results shows good correlation. In addition, the contribution of the three sections (front taper, middle section, and back taper) of the simulator are numerically isolated and the contribution of each to the overall field waveshape is discussed. The optimal positioning of a test object is determined based on the above results