A Demonstrator for Impedance Matching Systems in Transmission Lines With Time and Frequency Simulation [Education Corner]

This article describes a software tool developed to demonstrate several impedance-matching systems using at least one section of transmission line. The tool is intended for use in the classroom as a teaching resource and by students to verify the solutions of homework exercises, prepare for examinations, assist with laboratory work, and consolidate concepts in transmission-line theory. The implementation allows a very flexible and realistic load impedance definition, calculates the frequency response, and performs the animation of the traveling waves through all line sections of the matching system. The frequency response invites the students to have a more critical view of the physical circuit and improves their general skills in distributed and concentrated radio-frequency (RF) circuits. The time simulation offers a more detailed view of what is occurring inside the matching system, highlighting a few interesting conclusions. The tool is available online to be freely used, modified, or improved by the education community.