Optimization of TLM schemes based on the general symmetrical condensed node

A general symmetrical condensed node (GSCN) for the transmission-line modeling (TLM) method is derived from first principles, based on the establishment of a mapping between field quantities and voltage pulses, averaging at the node centers quantities at the boundaries and differencing of Maxwell's equations. The degrees of freedom offered by this formulation permit the development of adaptable nodes, where the mix of stubs and links can be chosen in a manner to optimize the dispersion characteristics. Results are shown confirming that the adaptable nodes can reduce substantially the dispersion and remove polarization-dependent errors.