Generalized analysis of stability and numerical dispersion in the discrete-convolution FDTD method

A simple technique is described for determining the stability and numerical dispersion of finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) calculations that are linear, second-order in space and time, and include dispersion by the discrete convolution method. The technique is applicable to anisotropic materials. Numerical examples demonstrate the accuracy of the technique for several anisotropic and/or dispersive materials.